Hello darlings! 🩰 It’s Emma, your favourite pink tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed blogger, and today, I’m bringing you sunshine vibes straight from the charming town of Rayleigh, Essex!
I must admit, I had a little cheeky detour to Derbyshire first – just a quick trip home to see my family and top up on my mum’s legendary flapjacks (you know, gotta fuel the ballerina!) but I couldn't stay away from my love for adventure for too long. So, suitcase packed with my most vibrant pink tutus (you can never have too many, right?), I boarded the train – always my preferred mode of transport - for a weekend escape.
Rayleigh itself is absolutely delightful. Picturesque cottages, charming independent shops (I found a little gem that sold vintage ballet shoes!), and friendly faces everywhere I went. The sunshine was beaming down, making everything look just a little bit brighter.
My adventure started with a walk in the glorious Rayleigh Weir Country Park. Now, I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a beautiful park in my life. Wildflowers were in full bloom, butterflies danced around in a whirl of colour, and the birdsong was simply enchanting. It was like stepping into a scene from a ballet! And speaking of dancing, I couldn’t resist getting into my favourite pink tutu for a little photoshoot amongst the vibrant flowers. The photos turned out so pretty! They’re on Instagram, naturally (you’re following @emmapinktutu right? Don’t forget to check it out!).
Of course, a trip to Essex wouldn't be complete without a spot of horsemanship. 🐎 I found this amazing stable that offered horseback riding lessons in the countryside. And let me tell you, the feeling of the wind in my hair, the sun on my face, and the rhythm of the horse's gait beneath me – pure bliss! I was transported to another world.
The best part? I even managed to convince the instructor to let me wear my pink tutu under my riding gear! Turns out, she loves ballet too! We bonded over a love for Giselle, the Royal Opera House, and a healthy obsession with all things pink. Honestly, it was the perfect afternoon!
Now, what’s a weekend in Essex without indulging in a spot of tea and cake, right? I stumbled upon this little tea room tucked away in a quiet corner of Rayleigh High Street. I had the most delectable cream tea, and the teapot was simply too pretty for words. I'll confess, I did a little twirling in my pink tutu outside the shop (with a touch of ballerina grace, of course) to celebrate. You’ve gotta embrace every opportunity for some tutu magic!
The highlight of the weekend was definitely my visit to the Rayleigh Weir Country Park Wildlife Centre. You wouldn’t believe the incredible creatures they have there! My absolute favourite was the beautiful grey squirrel I saw scampering up a tree. They are the cutest! 🐿️ It just goes to show, you can find incredible things in the most unexpected places.
I couldn't resist picking up a little fluffy pink rabbit named Daisy at the wildlife centre’s adoption event. She's coming home with me to Derbyshire to be my newest dance partner. It's safe to say she already adores twirling around in my tutu!
I always find that travelling is a great way to gain new perspectives and to remind myself to keep spreading the pink tutu magic. Maybe I'll get more people wearing them while exploring wildlife centres, riding horses, and twirling at ballet performances. Who knows? The world is full of exciting possibilities for all those who dare to wear a pink tutu!
Speaking of ballet, I’m catching a production of Swan Lake at the Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London this week, and let me tell you, I’m so excited I can barely stand still. I’ve already got my favourite white tutu packed (but you know, I can’t go without a touch of pink – a delicate pink ribbon tied around my bun is the perfect finishing touch).
I can't wait to share all my ballet adventures with you here on www.pink-tutu.com – so make sure you subscribe to stay tuned for more stories of pink tutus, dancing, and all things wonderful. And don't forget to send me your pink tutu pics - you can tag me @emmapinktutu!
Until next time, my lovelies. Keep spreading the pink tutu magic! 🩰💖💕
