A Scented Chapter in London – From Wandering Streets to World Stages
There’s a certain kind of magic in London—the kind that lingers in the air like a favourite perfume. This week, I had the honour of flying over to the city not just as a visitor, but as a finalist in the Pure Beauty Global Awards. Even as I write those words, they don’t quite feel real.
I arrived the day before the ceremony, allowing myself a gentle moment to settle, breathe, and find my footing in a city that always feels like the beginning of a story. I wandered through Covent Garden first, soaking up its charm—the kind of place where music drifts between market stalls and every corner feels like it’s waiting to be captured in a story or scent.
From there, I followed my feet to Trafalgar Square and on towards Buckingham Palace, where I stumbled upon something truly unexpected: attendees of the King’s Garden Party. Gents in top hats and formal military attire, ladies in pastel dresses and whimsical fascinators—it felt like a page out of a royal fairytale. Unbeknownst to me, it was also VE Day’s 80th anniversary. The city buzzed with pride, history, and celebration. It was electric.
I continued onwards, letting nostalgia gently wrap itself around me as I passed Big Ben and caught a perfect view of the London Eye—the very place where my husband once asked me to marry him. That memory made my steps feel a little lighter as I strolled along the Embankment under golden sunshine, before heading back to my hotel, The Strand Palace. A true gem—warm welcomes, delicious food, and a softness in the details that I’ll definitely be returning to.
Then came the big day.
Awards morning arrived with a mix of butterflies and excitement. I returned to Covent Garden for a quiet breakfast, letting the familiar cobbled streets calm my nerves. Then, I headed to Charlotte Tilbury’s flagship store for a quick makeover—because what better way to steady a racing heart than a sweep of lipstick and a little sparkle?
But as I made my way to The Waldorf, something shifted. The weight of it all hit me. Me, walking towards one of the industry’s most prestigious global award ceremonies. A finalist. Among the top five. With some of the world’s most recognised brands. My legs wobbled, and my heart raced. I ducked into a nearby coffee shop—just for a moment—to gather myself. Imposter syndrome crept in like a shadow, whispering doubts I didn’t invite.
But courage, I’ve learned, doesn’t always arrive loudly. Sometimes, it’s just the decision to take one more step forward. And I did.
When I walked in, the nerves faded into warmth. I was greeted by two incredible women—also attending solo—and in that shared experience, the grandness of it all became a little less intimidating. The Waldorf was breathtaking. We began with a sparkling champagne reception, then sat down to a beautiful lunch, followed by the awards themselves.
Though I didn’t take home a trophy that day, I carried something far more powerful home with me—a sense of belonging, pride, and deep gratitude. To see Flourish Emporium listed among such inspiring brands was a true pinch me moment. It reminded me how far this little dream of mine has come.
So while this chapter doesn’t end with a win, it ends with wonder. With courage reclaimed in a coffee shop. With top hats and summer dresses. With the scent of London air and the warmth of new friendships.
And most importantly, with the quiet knowing that this story—my story—is still unfolding, one scented page at a time.
Love,
L x