I love Bess of Hardwick

In a very real sense this amazing woman was the reason I moved to Derbyshire. Bess of Hardwick was a very strong, clever and shrewd lady who graced this county in the 16th century. Through her charismatic personality and strength of will she managed to negotiate four marriages in her lifetime, and came out on top after each successive husband died, before dying herself at a ripe old age. She developed a very close relationship with Queen Elizabeth 1st and towards the end of her long life she became the richest woman in England, after the Queen herself. Last week I was lucky enough to be invited to a 'behind the scenes' tour of her powerful house, Hardwick Hall. An English Elizabethan interpretation of Italian renaissance architecture. What a power house, a testament to her status as Countess of Shrewsbury and everything she had worked for.

Bess worked her entire life to one end, that of creating a fabulously wealthy dynasty. Which she did and then some. In her last marriage in 1567 to the Earl of Shrewsbury, she acquired the status she sought. One of her conditions in agreeing to marry the Earl was that her daughter Mary would marry his son Gilbert and her son Henry would marry his daughter Grace. Thus ensuring the coffers of the Earls of Shrewsbury would continue to benefit her offspring through the next generations. A very clever move. The house is now looked after by the National trust, after being given over to the nation in lieu of death duties after the untimely death of the 10th Duke of Devonshire. These particular dukes, amongst others, are descendants of Bess of Hardwick. During my visit I was thrilled to see a housecoat that is believed to have been worn by Bess. These are not fantastic images I know, but the garment could not be moved. The deep purple colour still glowed after over 400 years.

I also was taken up to the roof, to wonder at the views and incredibly I was allowed to enter Bess' private banqueting room. The rooftop houses three other similar single room dwellings. Such history.

A remarkable place that befits such a remarkable woman.

Irresistible

Love Love Love

The Mr and I were lucky enough to be invited to a very special wedding, between two folk very much in love. It is no exaggeration to say the Bride and Groom both smiled from ear to ear all day. The wedding was beautiful but most importantly everyone who attended projected their love on to the happy couple and each other. It felt so nice to be part of it. The Bride had oodles of bridesmaids, including two ladies in their 80s and two little girls. Her Aunt gave her away as both her parents have passed. Then we all had a big party. A perfect day.

Talking of Surrealists

This made me laugh. Kinda how I feel somedays.

Lee Miller's Clothes

I think I have written about the extaordinary Farley Farmhouse before. The Sussex home of Lee Miller and Roland Penrose, who moved there in 1949 and stayed for 35 years. If you have never visited I urge you to go, it is one of the most remarkable places I have ever been to. I was lucky enough to have worked there for a while with Tony Penrose their son and his daughter Ami Bouhassane. This little film popped up in my feed and I really want to share it with all of you. I am a huge fan of vintage textiles and hope you may find this interesting.

Coronation Bliss

Oh my, the whole event was totally amazing. Everything aesthetical oozed class but also the intent behind it was just as classy. All the symbols weaved throughout the service spoke of, peace, mercy, equality, kindness, love and care taking. I found it very moving. Can you imagine any other monarch in the world having their pet animals embroidered on a coronation gown. Says it all really. Bluebell and Beth formerly of The Battersea Dogs Home are much loved.

My view from the sofa during the service.

Coronation Essentials

Okay my lovelies, are we all ready for the Coronation on Saturday? Discounted Emma Bridgewater mug ordered and received, yes. Hellishly expensive fondant fancies ordered from Bettys, yes. 25% off Champagne at Sainsbury's, hopefully. To do List, small delicate sandwiches to make, from exquisite fillings Saturday morning. No bunting required as it will probably be me watching on my own, with the Mr, popping in occasionally to steal my goodies, the bounder.