There is something magical about autumn in Wimbledon. Maybe it's the low sun lighting up the abundance of golden and red leaves upon the trees, or the warmth of being at home watching the rain cascade down the windows.

The mornings and evenings are certainly colder and darker, and the days shorter. The twinkle of fairy lights in the shops and the thought of Christmas certainly helps us look forward not back to the by-gone heat wave of summer ‘18. 

It was with childish glee, the Lady Wimbledon bloggers were invited to Elys Christmas extravaganza to kick-start the festive season. We felt like magpies blinded by the glittering stars that filled the ceilings and clothes and jewellery that sparkled under the spotlights.

From candles at The White Company, to brows at Benefit, bags by Michael Kors and personalised jewellery by Posh Totty, I have to admit, that with 20% off, there was more self-gifting than Santa shopping for kids. I don't think I even made it to the toys department.

The day soon turned to night and their drinks reception and fashion show inspired all our outfits for forthcoming Christmas parties. 

Still firmly in November however, the next fortnight brings Wimbledon's International Music Festival, referred by the Evening Standard as 'One of the capitals major autumn events'. Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the festival is looking 'forward to seeing music and the universal language in which all cultures give expression to their faiths, emotions, myths and imaginations in music.’

From the sound of the classical guitar to Takács String Quartet, Superswing Dixieland jazz and Peter Donohoe's piano recital, they offer warming experiences during these cold autumn nights. A chance to inspire the young and an opportunity for all to hear international music legends on our Wimbledon doorstep. 

My children may be a little young to sit still and enjoy such awesome musical productions without bribes of lollipops, so I may treat them instead to the Centre Court Shopping Centre’s Christmas Grotto opening 16th November.

I was quite distressed last week, learning about a rumour in my 6-year-old sons class that Santa is not real! It has renewed my dedication to instiling the magic and wonder of Christmas back into his big blue eyes. 

If reciting his extensive wish list of Lego, Build-A-Bear and iPads doesn’t do it - we will certainly head to Wimbledon’s Christmas light switch-on on the 27th November. I’m already feeling that excitement I felt as a child, and it is an utter honour and joy to pass it on to the little ones - even if they are a slightly tougher crowd. 

Wishing you warmth and a spark of magic as we head gently towards the emotive time of Christmas.