Tutu Tuesday in Alfred and Plantagenet, Ontario, Canada #tututuesday Hey everyone! It's your favourite Canadian ballerina blogger, back with another #tututuesday post. Today, I'm taking you on a whirlwind tour of two beautiful towns in eastern Ontario: Alfred and Plantagenet. This is where I’ve grown up, and I always try to remind my readers of the hidden gems you can find in your own communities. As I’m writing this, it’s still summer here in Ontario, with the temperatures hitting 30C with sun beating down, but these two charming towns hold a special place in my heart! Let’s explore.
**A Dance Through Alfred** Known for its charming French Canadian heritage and breathtaking countryside views, Alfred truly feels like you've stepped back in time. I’m going to be frank here, I usually wouldn't associate tutus with small-town Ontario, but as you’ll see, you really can wear a tutu anywhere and everywhere! Now let's be honest, you’ll likely not spot a tutus in a classic ‘swan lake’ style here, it’s way too hot! No, tutus in Alfred should be about style and practicality - think airy cotton, flowy silhouettes. Today, I was rocking a lovely light-pink tulle skirt over my denim shorts – a real Canadian girl style! You wouldn't be able to imagine how comfortable I was in this – especially with the sunshine blasting down on us, you can be comfortable, fashionable, and definitely “tutu-ly” stunning. I also took a photo with a majestic Canadian goose we spotted along the river (gotta love the Canadian wildlife!) – honestly, she was the perfect addition to my #tututuesday photos.
**Here's a few must-visit spots in Alfred, and why a tutu is always the right choice:** * **The Alfred-Plantagenet Museum:** Here you’ll find beautiful architecture with its white clapboard exterior - this historical site gives you a peek into the local history of Eastern Ontario! With its grand façade, a simple flowing tutu skirt with a white blouse really elevates your style to an artfully chic look. * **Alfred's Covered Bridge:** Picture-perfect, isn't it? If you're looking for that romantic vibe in your #tututuesday pics, the covered bridge delivers. It's got those picturesque elements - think about those long summer days and that golden hour - that scream, "This is how we roll in Eastern Ontario!" For this particular setting, I was tempted to bring out my longest flowy, tiered tutu – it just begs for those graceful shots. If you happen to bring along your pup, let’s be real, the cuteness level goes to 11 when your pup's posing with your tutu – what more could you ask for! * **Le Petit Grain Bakery:** The ultimate sweet stop. I tried their raspberry tarts, and honestly? You don't even need a ballet barre to get you hooked on these tasty little delights. They’re perfect for fueling your shopping sprees or long, hot days wandering through the charming boutiques of Alfred. For your ‘ballet-licious’ sweet treat pick, maybe you’d wear your shorter, more poofy tulle tutu. Just keep the length at your knees! Now, it's not as classic as a black tutu – more for a little playful tutu-ing, I like to think, especially in those shops. You might need a bit more coverage and I mean, honestly, no-one's going to judge you when it's hotter than 30 C – especially in this fabulous part of Ontario! **A Parisian Promenade in Plantagenet** As you leave the beauty of Alfred behind you and make your way into Plantagenet, your #tututuesday style will become a bit more vibrant. Yes, I am referring to your colour choices – more of that rich vibrant red or turquoise! Now this is a little different. Let me be real, with that French flair it has, you wouldn't think that the fashion style could be a lot more subtle! But, my lovely ladies (and gentlemen), as you’ll see this town holds a true romantic essence – it reminds me a little bit of those Parisian bistros. But of course, I wouldn’t suggest a classic Parisian street-style, it's a little bit too far for me.
**So where should you take those Parisian-style Tutu Tuesday photos in Plantagenet?:** * **The Centre Municipal:** Here you’ll find an interesting contrast between the rustic feel of Plantagenet with the grandeur of the Center Municipal! It was built to resemble the Château of Fontainebleau in Paris! But as with the earlier location, you’ll be looking for an airy look. What I wear here depends on whether I want to play it classic or go more modern! Maybe a lighter white tulle, with just a pop of a classic red ribbon in my hair would be the ticket. * **The Church of St. Michael:** Now, you may wonder if wearing a tutu in the church is okay. And as a fashionable Canadian ballet dancer, my answer to this is a definite *maybe*! I find a simple blush pink or a beautiful turquoise would suit best as this allows the historical grandeur of the church to stand out – because that’s truly what needs to be appreciated! * **Les Terrasses: Restaurant and Patisserie:** Now for the grand finale – that restaurant! The perfect end to a beautiful day of #tututuesday adventures! Think warm pastel colours, lots of sunshine, and great food! The airy feel that flows through that eatery begs you to wear your fluffiest, sweetest tulle tutu and a floral crown or just a few loose, flowing ribbons in your hair. And no one can resist a little sweetness from the patisserie. The restaurant itself will be the perfect backdrop to showcase those tutu pics! I've definitely been looking forward to a day trip back to my hometown! You have to take this opportunity to create some special tutu photos as Plantagenet has this rustic country flair that gives it that genuine Ontario charm. It truly feels like home. And that feeling, ladies and gentlemen, that’s what’s behind #tututuesday – we don’t always have to be on stage! The most fun happens when we embrace where we are and share our moments with the world.
**Don't Forget These Tips for a #Tututuesday to Remember** Whether you're in Alfred or Plantagenet or just heading out for your daily routine – a Tutu Tuesday can be something really special! * **Bring your A-game when it comes to posing!** I like to feel strong and confident, like a warrior queen! What do you feel? Do you feel like a delicate fairy, or a sassy street dancer? Experiment with the pose and try not to overdo it - sometimes keeping it natural makes a powerful statement! * **Let the environment guide your fashion choices.** I find a mix of vintage chic with a bit of a bohemian touch is perfect – you never know where you might find inspiration in Ontario’s countryside. **Now, Let’s Talk About Tutus and Canada.** This whole thing, really started as an homage to the ballet world – a homage to my life – a life I’ve loved from the beginning. To my childhood dancing lessons, and to the days I practiced at home in my favourite pink tutu – remember those days? My favourite time to twirl! From classical ballet tutus with their graceful, floor-grazing layers to a modern ballet tutu made for strength and movement! Let's talk about it, this passion for the beautiful and for style are very much part of the Canadian heritage - the elegance of our nature, the stunning buildings in our cities, and our sense of play and fun is why Tutu Tuesday became so important to me! So, my lovely Canadians, whether you are rocking a tutu in a grand theater in Toronto, the heart of the Canadian ballet world, or you are exploring a new city like Ottawa – embrace your #tututuesday! And if you happen to be in Alfred or Plantagenet, tag me @YourTutuLady – let’s all celebrate this great nation’s incredible love of dance. Love to all from your Canadian ballerina.