Whenever it nears that special time of the year, Londoners watch as the streets are slowly illuminated by breathtaking light displays but this year’s festive period welcomed the return of Grosvenor Square’s glowing roses that hold a deeper, meaningful purpose.

 

Since 1954, London’s streets have been adorned with sparkling festive lights during every holiday period to attract customers to shops and businesses. But they do not have to solely symbolise frantic last-minute gift buying, but can rather represent our love for those no longer with us.

 

The Ever After Garden held rows of thousands of glowing flowers from 1 to 23 December where members of the public could donate and dedicate a rose to a lost loved one and support the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. The garden first bloomed in late 2019 and returned in the winter of 2021 where it lit up Grosvenor Square, in Mayfair.

 

Michael Howells, Camilla Morton and Anya Hindmarch first created the display following the loss of a close friend, however the beauty of the garden is its comfortingly personal feel as it reaches out to anyone who has lost a loved one. The roses provide a way to honour and commemorate the lives of our loved ones alongside raising funds for charity.

 

Amid the hustle and bustle of London’s streets, a pocket of peaceful reflection was preserved for those who, in a period heavily focused on the company of family and friends, may feel an even deeper loss. Christmastime is often spent with the people we love but can prove an ever difficult time for those who are grieving. The Royal Marsden Charity has greatly aided the people of London get through this hard time.

 

If you did not get the chance to see the stunning display this holiday season then perhaps next Christmastime you could visit The Ever After Garden and experience a moment of quiet reflection and remembrance yourself.

You can donate to the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity here:

https://www.royalmarsden.org/donate.