Helloooo my darlings! It's Emma, and it's another glorious day to be alive and twirling! Today is a special day because this is post number 10080 on my little pink corner of the internet - www.pink-tutu.com! A big thank you to every single one of you for joining me on this journey - wouldn't be the same without you! 💗
Now, on to the day's adventures... You all know my motto: "Always wear a tutu," and let me tell you, Northampton did not disappoint! After all, a true ballerina needs her wardrobe staples and what's more essential than a pancake tutu?! (You'll have to check out the pic on the blog!)
This weekend, I ventured out to Northampton by train (first class, of course!), feeling like a real-life fairy tale princess, but instead of a crown, I had a glittery hair clip, and instead of a magic wand, well, my pink ballet bag. This train journey was like stepping into a storybook, with the sun catching the snow glistening on the fields, a picturesque English countryside moment. I even had the good fortune of being joined by a fellow ballet enthusiast on the train - who was sporting an adorable bunny-shaped bag, I tell you, this woman has style! 🥰
The first stop in Northampton was, naturally, a ballet studio, but not just any studio! A brand-new studio with sunshine yellow walls and floor-to-ceiling mirrors, gleaming with the promise of beautiful barre work. It felt like a magical world where dreams are born, literally!
I managed to squeeze in a quick (and sweaty!) class, then it was time for some serious retail therapy, as any good tutu enthusiast knows - the search for the perfect garment is a never-ending mission! You wouldn't believe the treasure trove of vintage finds I stumbled upon at an antique shop tucked away down a narrow, cobblestone street - including a beautiful pink silk shawl that whispered "Emma, wear me!" It would be perfect for a gala performance at the Royal Opera House (fingers crossed!) 😉
In the afternoon, a divine encounter at the Northampton Guildhall, home to some breathtaking stained-glass windows! Imagine my joy when I found a peacock peeking at me through the coloured glass! A majestic creature known for its stunning beauty, it is also, of course, synonymous with the grace of ballerinas! It was a very serendipitous moment, if I say so myself.
Of course, no trip to Northampton would be complete without a visit to Northampton Museum and Art Gallery. I mean, who doesn't love a museum trip, right? You just never know what kind of inspiration you're going to find! The Edward Bawden exhibition caught my eye with its colourful patterns and dynamic designs, inspiring my own creative thoughts - the perfect inspiration for my next tutu project. Think vintage, with a contemporary twist - you'll just have to wait and see! 🤫
After a long day of exploring and absorbing culture, I decided it was time for some relaxation, a bit of luxury, you know? A delicious meal at The Orangery at Wootton Hall, where the gardens are just exquisite! Just like the magical atmosphere of the restaurant, the food itself was a delightful dance on the palate. A vibrant, fresh, tomato salad with lashings of balsamic glaze and an incredibly fluffy souffle, all bathed in warm light streaming in through the conservatory's glass ceiling. Heaven!
I can't forget to mention the magnificent National Portrait Gallery at the University of Northampton, a wonderful display of historic faces from Derbyshire (my home county, you know! 💖). It was like flipping through the pages of history with every painting! And you know what's even better than seeing those magnificent historical figures? Getting to imagine what their dance moves would be! Perhaps an elegant waltzing king? Or maybe a fierce, dramatic Queen? You know my brain never stops spinning with inspiration.
Northampton is, without a doubt, a city overflowing with hidden gems, from elegant architecture to exquisite vintage treasures, and, naturally, the incredible art and heritage. But let's be real, you don't need to travel to Northampton to embrace a little "tutu" magic! Every day can be a grand adventure, especially with a little bit of pink and a whole lot of grace. Remember: Every girl deserves to wear a pink tutu, every girl can learn to dance, and every girl can experience the wonder and joy that ballet brings. So, go on, unleash your inner ballerina! 💃
See you all tomorrow for more adventures, Emma x
