Category: Community

The festive season is a time for family, food, and fun – but it’s also a time when wastage is at its pinnacle! From wrapping paper and packaging to the mountains of food cooked that goes uneaten,here are a few tips on how to waste less this festive season.

Reuse what you can

One person’s trash is another one’s treasure! So, before you go out and buy new decorations for your home this festive season, look around and see what you can creatively reuse. 

Pro Tip: maybe a vase could be repurposed as a candle holder, or old curtains could be turned into tablecloths – think outside the box.

Shop online

Not only will this help you avoid overspending, but it will also keep plastic minimal. When you’re in a store, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and buy things you don’t need – hence the six shopping bags. However, shopping online can help you stay focused on your list. Plus, most online businesses boast eco-friendly packaging now!

Recycle what you can’t reuse

Recycle items that can’t be reused, like gift wrapping, ribbons, cards and packaging, instead of throwing them away. Designate a recycling bin at home for the whole family to use.

Pro Tip: explain to kids exactly how it works – so they don’t throw yesterday’s spaghetti in with all the gift wrap.

Live a minimalistic lifestyle

A minimalistic lifestyle helps you be more conscious of the waste you produce. For example, if you make fewer purchases, fewer boxes and packaging materials will end up dumped, which means less pollution for our planet.

Compost what you can’t recycle

Composting is easy and a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. There are tons of videos online to show you exactly how it works. From food scraps to tear-soaked tissues, there is plenty around you that can become the perfect compost.

Pro Tip: treat your plants now – they’ll love you by spring.

Our Chipping Norton storage facility boasts top-quality packaging materials and a safe place to store while you renovate this holiday. Whether you’re working on your office or forever home, call Wigwam on 0800 2545585 or pop by our Chipping Norton facility for a tour. 

Saying thank you is a custom often overlooked. We are so busy with our lives and work we sometimes forget to tell the people around us how much we appreciate them. This holiday season, show your appreciation for the people in your life with a unique gift!

From the world’s tiniest vacuum to the ultimate microwave popcorn bowl, keep reading for five gift ideas anyone would love to receive.

An instant bag hanger

If you’re looking for gifts for friends or family, consider an instant bag hanger – especially if they go out a lot. Whether they’re at a café, bar or in a bathroom stall, they’ll appreciate having a small keychain bag hook on hand.

A popcorn microwave bowl

Most people get frustrated waiting by the stove for kernels to pop, so you can’t go wrong with this gift. All one has to do is throw kernels into the bowl and place it in the microwave with the vented lid. A couple of minutes later, they’ll have perfectly popped popcorn!

A pocket vacuum

Whether it’s for family members who work from home or a friend who’s a stay-at-home mom, most people would geek out over tiny USB-rechargeable vacuum cleaners. From sucking up crumbs to removing pet hair from desks – consider a pocket vacuum if you’re looking for a practical gift.

A Bindle Bottle

For fitness fanatic recipients, consider this unique water bottle. It’s insulated to keep water cold and has a stash compartment in the bottom to store credit cards, car keys or other tiny necessities.

A purse organizer

This is the perfect gift for moms, especially those with a Mary Poppins handbag! Most come in different sizes with plenty of pockets, slots and a zippered pouch.

Your recipient will never lose another pen while standing in the queue at the bank.Running out of hiding places for gifts at home? Wigwam has space. Whether you’re looking to store gifts until just before Christmas or to store clutter long-term to make room for the new year, call us on 0800 2545585 or visit our Personal Storage options to learn more.

There’s no doubt that a well-done bathroom renovation can add significant value to your home. However, there are also plenty of ways to improve your bathroom without spending a fortune.  
 
In this blog post, we unpack a few tips on how to do just that. Whether you’re looking to make a few small changes or completely redesign your space, read on for some inspiration.  
  

Paint the bathtub and shower  

Replacing bathtubs and showers is pricey and not always an option. Thankfully there are paints specifically designed to coat discoloured or stained baths and showers. Make sure to research online or visit your local hardware store expert for guidance before taking on this task.  
  

Bathroom greenery  

Plants are the perfect accessory to add warmth to sterile areas such as the bathroom. From hanging fresh eucalyptus and lavender over the showerhead to a small plant on the vanity or a large one in the corner, use plants to boost the look and feel of your cold bathroom.  
  

Peel and stick tiles  

Upgrade your bathroom floor in no time with peel-and-stick tiles. The perfect solution for renters and homeowners, these stick-on beauties come in a wide range of patterns, colours and styles, are easy to apply and just as easy to remove with a bit of heat from a hairdryer or heater.  
  

Basic vanity upgrades  

You can upgrade your vanity with a simple coat of paint or get creative with a few decorative pre-cut panels that you can peel and stick straight on. Can’t decide between the two? Try both and give your vanity a fresh and expensive new look!  
 

Dress-up water pipes  

Yes, you read that right. Water pipes are often an unattractive bathroom reality. Use colourful or plain rope and wrap it around visible pipes to dress them up. Consider matching the rope colour to your freshly-painted vanity and enjoy this low-cost and uplifting bathroom style tip.  
 

With affordable personal storage solutions in Oxfordshire and Worcestershire, Wigwam Self Storage is your solution to a clutter-free household. Give us a call on 01608 656300 (Chipping Norton) or 01527 222321 (Bromsgrove) to learn more about our storage solutions while you upgrade your home.  

As Halloween fast approaches, spooky season is in full swing bringing with it a selection of spine-chilling and fun activities. From trick or treating at a haunted house to enjoying a chilly evening fireside listening to thrilling ghost stories, here are a few of the top family-friendly activities to do this Halloween in Bromsgrove. 

Tip: Wondering if Bromsgrove is the ideal place for you and your family? See our article on living in Bromsgrove.
 

Ascarium: Tricks & Treats 

The Birmingham Aquarium boasts a Halloween event perfect for younger children. Taking place from 15 – 31 October, little ones can meet the famous Sea Witch and Warlock before taking part in an exciting treasure hunt. Get ready for an entire day of fun just 30 minutes from Bromsgrove.  

Book your tickets for Ascarium: Tricks & Treats here.  

Attwell Farm Halloween Spooktacular 

From PYO pumpkin and carving to a ghastly ghost hunt, a haunted house, a cursed pirate ride aboard the Black Pearl, and more, Atwell Farm Park is going all out for an unforgettable Halloween experience for kids taking place from 22 – 30 October. Be sure to book your tickets to avoid disappointment!  

Book your tickets for Attwell Farm’s Halloween Spooktacular here. 
 

Torchlit Pumpkin walk  

If your little ones enjoy torchlit walks, spooky crafts, roasting marshmallows and listening to ghost stories around a campfire, take a trip to the Bodenham Arboretum, a quick 25-minute drive outside Bromsgrove. Tickets are limited, so book to secure your spot! 

Book your tickets for Bodenham Arboretum’s Pumpkin Walk here. 
 

The Haunted House!  

Taking place on 31 October from 7 – 10 pm, you and your little ghouls can wind through the Haunted House supporting the Royal British Legion located in B60 2, Bromsgrove. Beware their warning: “Come here if you dare. We won’t haunt you, we swear, but beware, our home may give you a Halloween SCARE!” 

Confirm your attendance on The Haunted House Facebook page here.  
 

Do you need a modern and competitively priced self storage solution in Oxfordshire or Worcestershire? Whether you need extra space to store seasonal clothing and Halloween decorations or general household clutter year-round, Wigwam has a personal storage solution for you.  
 
For more information, visit our Bromsgrove storage facility or give us on 0800 2545585, and a member of our friendly team will gladly assist you!  

If you’re looking for a break from the library, lectures and assignment deadlines, we can help. If you’re interested in somewhere new to enjoy a bite to eat or just want to find new places to relax and socialise, Chipping Norton has plenty to offer.  

From charming bookshop cafés to classic pubs, here are some of the best student hangouts in Chipping Norton. Change out of your pyjamas, run a brush through your hair and get out there! 
 

Middle Barton Sports and Social Club  

If you’re a sports fan, there’s no better place to relax after a long day of classes than at Middle Barton Sports and Social Club situated on Worton Road. Whether joining their weekly pool league or simply enjoying a pint with friends, you’ll be in good hands.  
 

The Chipping Norton Theatre  

The Chippy Theatre and Cinema – first built in 1888 as a Salvation Army citadel – is the ideal student hangout spot, offering a mixture of theatre, arthouse cinema, music, comedy and dance. From a rainy afternoon to a fun night out, the Chippy Theatre is the place to be.   
 

Jaffé and Neale Bookshop and Café  

Is there any better place to enjoy a chilly autumn day than a cosy bookshop? Of course not! Situated in Market Square, this charming independent bookstore is a dream for literary students. Pop in for a slice of cake, a delicious coffee or hot chocolate, and fuel your body and mind.  
 

The Red Lion  

The Fox’s Red Lion pub is a Chippy institution dating back to 1684 and well-loved as the smallest pub in town. With an enclosed beer garden, a traditional pub menu and a relaxed vibe, this laidback pub may become your favourite spot for a well-deserved study break. Take your laptop along for some light reading while you grab a bite to eat.  
 

Whether you need extra space to store childhood items or a short-term solution to store furniture during the holidays, Wigwam can assist. Offering flexible student storage solutions in Chipping Norton and Bromsgrove, we have a unit to suit your needs, schedule and budget. Call us on 0800 2545585 to learn more or request a hassle-free quote online!  

One of the best parts of university life is the opportunity to grow as you try new things. If you’re knee-deep in academics and starting to feel just a little overwhelmed by new responsibilities, we can help.  

To help you stay focused and avoid mid-semester burnout, we’ve listed some of the best apps for university students. From easy referencing to ambient noise to help you study better, we’ve got you covered. 

RefMe 

If you hate remembering the differences in citation methods, this app is for you. After scanning the book barcode, RefMe will create your chosen citation method from over 7500 citation styles and save the reference, helping you cite, reference and create bibliographies like a pro. 

Noisli 

Noisli is a gift for students who struggle with noise distraction. Offering a wide range of ambient sounds, including brown noise for enhanced focus, students can create a custom ambient soundtrack to help them focus, relax and even sleep better.  

Evernote 

Evernote is perfect for enhancing task management and note-taking, helping to keep your thoughts organised. Able to capture a note in any format, Evernote can also save product/service reviews and take pictures of receipts or handwritten notes. 

Dragon Dictation 

Do you do your best thinking out loud? This app allows you to dictate copy for as long as necessary. Using voice recognition software, you can create and edit documents of any length and then either save or email them to yourself or others when you’re ready.  

Timetable 

The perfect digital planner, Timetable (or Class Timetable for iOS) is a great way to plan your day and keep track of your many upcoming assignment deadlines. Say goodbye to an overcrowded brain and hello to the new productive and organised you! 

All apps are available on Android and iOS 

An uncluttered space is vital to studying better. If you need extra space, turn to Wigwam. With affordable Oxfordshire student storage units available in a wide range of sizes, you can store as much or as little as you need with ease. Give us a call on 01608 656 300 to learn more. 

Covering over 800 square miles and five counties, the Cotswolds is often thought of as a playground for the affluent and famous. However, beneath the charming surface, opportunities for children and young people are few and far between. In response to the growing need for assistance in the community came The Branch.

Introducing The Branch

The Branch Trust – led by a great team of trustees – works to break the cycle of poverty, isolation, violence, and disadvantage once and for all. Through their innovative response of nurture, training, connection and opportunity, The Branch has become a haven for those in need working with the underlying problems preventing people and families from reaching their potential.

At Wigwam, we are delighted to partner with this inspirational local charity as they come together and build a brighter future for the residents of Chipping Norton. 

Can you imagine spending months in a refuge or escaping domestic abuse with no place to turn? The bravery and courage it takes to pack up one’s life into a few suitcases, leaving behind treasured possessions, friends, and their home is extraordinary and not without struggle. This is where The Branch – and Wigwam – step in.

How it works

When you are in need, The Branch will receive a call from Social Services and arrive within hours to offer support. From practical help to emotional support, and through the wide range of practical courses they offer, The Branch team works to make a meaningful and long-lasting difference in the community.

To help smooth the process, Wigwam provides a safe and secure space to store donations and helps collect and deliver them around town through the use of our van and helpful staff.

From beds and washing machines to furniture and curtains, we are here to ensure that the donations are ready at a moment’s notice. 

The Branch is a source of life and support without barriers or stigma. We at Wigwam are proud to be part of this incredible initiative as they continue to build relationships and resilience and provide the community with the skills to build a legacy that will transform generations to come. 

If you would like to find out more about The Branch, get involved or require assistance, you can visit their website, Instagram page or Facebook page.