Hey there, darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu-clad blogger, Emma, back with another whirl-wind adventure. This time, I’m whisking you off to Ashton, a quaint little town nestled in the heart of…well, I’m not going to lie, it was a bit of a trek! But it was absolutely worth it, especially with my trusty tutu tucked under my arm.
As always, I’ve got my eye out for anything that makes my inner ballerina squeal with delight – a cute shop, a graceful swan in the nearby park, you name it! It’s like a whole world opens up when you start to look for beauty in the ordinary.
Today, I'm going to be focusing on this gem of a little tutu I picked up for a steal – I mean, a complete bargain – from a shop called ‘The Vintage Veil’ (seriously, can you even?). It's a pale pink, barely there tulle with a shimmer of lavender sequins running through it. Honestly, I think this is destined to become my go-to for impromptu dance-offs, don’t you?
*A Bit of History and Horseback Riding (In Pink, Naturally) * Ashton itself was charming. It felt like stepping into a picture book. The old church clock tower, the cobbled streets, and a quaint cafe I found called “The Whimsical Whisk,” all beckoned me to explore further. There's something undeniably romantic about towns like this – a sense of history woven into the fabric of everyday life.
Speaking of romance, you know what pairs perfectly with a trip to a historical town? A leisurely ride on horseback! Don't get me wrong, it was not a graceful carriage ride through a park, more a spirited canter through some nearby countryside (all whilst maintaining my pink tutu look, of course). This was an adventure through lush fields and ancient woodlands, and the experience was a beautiful blend of elegance and rugged charm.
Let me tell you, nothing quite beats the wind whipping through your hair and the earth under your hooves – it was pure magic! My heart was full of joy and freedom, and the sight of Ashton's little stone buildings peeking out from the hillside as we trotted back just made it even better.
* Ballet for Everyone - Street Shows and a Visit to a Theatre *
But my adventures weren't all about romance and rustic charm. Ashton had another layer of loveliness waiting for me: the magic of ballet!
I discovered an amazing street performance taking place at the town square, showcasing some incredible dancers. The energy, the grace, the storytelling through movement - it was a real treat to watch. I was totally swept away by it, and so were all the other bystanders, who seemed equally enchanted by the spectacle. This just solidified my belief: ballets don't have to be confined to a theatre, they can flourish anywhere, reaching anyone!
My journey in Ashton ended at a gorgeous old theatre that reminded me of something out of a Dickens novel. Inside, the lights were dimmed, the velvet seats beckoned me to sink into them, and a powerful air of anticipation hung heavy in the air. The whole thing felt incredibly romantic and special. This theatre is hosting a professional production of Swan Lake next month, and you better believe I'll be in the audience!
My Daily Pink Tutu Ritual Of course, no Ashton visit is complete without my pink tutu ritual. I know some might think it’s a little OTT, but honestly, my favourite part of my travels is seeing the smiles it brings to others. Seeing kids light up and ask, "Are you a ballerina?", or adults sheepishly admitting that they always dreamt of wearing a tutu – it's like a sprinkle of magic in an ordinary day! It also serves as a reminder that we're all capable of some incredible things, as long as we embrace a bit of playfulness.
As the sun set on Ashton, I sat by the town river and reflected on this trip. This town is an excellent example of how ballet and fashion can truly be found anywhere - even a small town. But really, that’s what this blog is all about. Seeing the magic in the everyday, remembering to add a little twirl to your steps, and most importantly, never letting the joy of a pink tutu fade away.
So, whether you're in a bustling city or a sleepy countryside town, remember to keep an eye out for beauty in the ordinary. Embrace a little pink, unleash your inner ballerina, and never forget, my darlings: the world is waiting to be danced on!
*And don’t forget to check back tomorrow for more of my pink tutu adventures! www.pink-tutu.com *
Lots of love
Emma