Memories are invaluable treasures that connect us to our past, reminding us of cherished moments, loved ones, and significant milestones. As time passes, we tend to amass multitudes of keepsakes since they hold deep sentimental value, but we often find ourselves lacking the space to preserve them. 

Time for self storage to come to the rescue!

Let’s explore the importance of preserving keepsakes and how self storage facilities can be the perfect ally in safeguarding your most treasured memories.

Why We Love Our Keepsakes

To Remember the Past

Keepsakes hold an extraordinary power to transport us back in time, evoke vivid emotions, and remind us of our journeys. Whether it’s a handwritten letter, a childhood toy, or a collection of photographs, these tangible objects can awaken cherished memories, providing solace, joy, and a sense of continuity in our lives. Preserving these treasures is essential for maintaining a solid connection to our past and passing on our stories to future generations.

To Preserve Family History

Family history is a rich tapestry of stories, experiences, and memories passed down through generations. Preserving and sharing these memories is a profound way to honour our heritage and connect with our roots. Self storage offers an ideal solution for safeguarding family heirlooms, old photographs, and other memorabilia that hold the key to our ancestry. By preserving these items, we’re passing on the rich tapestries of our family histories to future generations, and fostering a sense of belonging and identity while we do so.

Examples of sentimental keepsakes:

• Love letters
• Family jewellery 
• Photo books
• Framed family pictures
• Cards commemorating special occasions
• Lockets
• Photographs of past occasions 
• Journals and diaries
• Items/clothes from a family member who has passed away

How Self Storage Can Help

Overcoming Limited Space

In today’s fast-paced world, where living spaces are becoming increasingly smaller, finding enough room to store our keepsakes can be daunting. Over time, our homes can become cluttered, making it difficult to properly display and protect our cherished mementoes. This problem is where self storage proves to be a valuable resource, offering a secure and convenient solution to store your memories without compromising the space you need to live comfortably.

Security and Protection

Self storage facilities are designed with security in mind, ensuring that your keepsakes remain safe and protected. State-of-the-art security systems, including surveillance cameras, access controls, and alarm systems, protect against theft and unauthorised access. Additionally, the units are usually climate-controlled to maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels, shielding your delicate items, such as photographs and documents, from deterioration due to the outside conditions we face daily.

Organisation and Accessibility

One of the most significant advantages of utilising self storage for your keepsakes is the ability to organise and access your memories whenever needed. With a wide range of storage unit sizes available, you can select the perfect space to accommodate your collection. We employ proper storage techniques, such as labelling boxes, using archival materials, and arranging items systematically, ensuring easy retrieval and minimising the risk of damage. 

This way, you can relive your cherished memories at any time, knowing they are safely stored and easily accessible, especially if you choose a self storage facility that offers 24/7 access.

During Life Transitions

Life is full of transitions, whether you’re moving to a smaller home, renovating, or embarking on a new adventure. During these times, self storage can be a lifeline for your cherished memories. Rather than parting with sentimental possessions due to limited space, you can safely store them until you are ready to reintegrate them into your life. 

Adapt to life’s changes — don’t be overcome by them. 

Tips for Storing Your Items Correctly

Use Appropriate Storage Materials

Choosing  suitable materials makes all the difference! Use acid-free, archival-friendly storage materials such as boxes, tissue paper, and envelopes to prevent unwanted damage from harmful chemicals. These materials will give your keepsakes the extra defence they need.

Avoid Exposure To Light

These aren’t flowers — sunlight can be a real troublemaker! To prevent fading or damage to delicate items, store them away from windows and sources of direct light.

Label Your Items

Make sure to tag each item with a description, date and any other necessary information. Doing this will help future generations understand their importance and provide a captivating backstory for future years to come.

Perform Regular Check-Ups

Check on your stored items frequently to ensure they are in good condition. Ensure you address any issues as soon as they arise, so you can appreciate these prizes for future generations.

Our memories are a priceless treasure, reflecting who we are and our journey. By utilising self storage to preserve your keepsakes, you’re investing in your personal histories and the emotional connections they evoke. The convenience, security, and accessibility of our units at Wigwam Self Storage make them an ideal choice for safeguarding your  memories and treasured moments. 

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Contact us today, or visit our personal storage options to learn more. 

If you’re like most parents, you want to give your children a playroom that is fun, creative and functional. However, organising a child’s playroom can be tricky, especially when working with a small avalanche of tiny action figures, lost puzzle pieces, feet-destroying Lego and more.  

Begin by decluttering and removing broken toys or donating ones they’ve long outgrown. Once you’re left with the best, try these hacks to organise your child’s playroom. 
 

Clear bins for toys  

When children are on the hunt for a specific toy, tipping out all containers is normally their go-to. However, with clear bins and containers, your children will be able to see straight through and grab what they want without causing an explosion of toys all over the place. 
 

Designate shelving  

Parents are well-aware of toys their children favour. Consider designating a shelf for favourite toys only. This way, your children know exactly where to find their cherished items, and they’ll have an easier pack-up process when the clock hits bedtime.  
 

Book storage  

If you don’t have the space for a full bookshelf or can’t install shelves as a renter, consider using book bins. Place them on a low level or the floor for easy access, allowing children to pack books away neatly at the end of the day. 
 

Organise by colour  

Consider organising items by colour – a favourite strategy of the famous Home Edit duo. It not only makes it easier for children to identify what they’re looking for, but children will use the colour system to put toys back where they found them.   
 

Play clean-up games 

From ‘pick-up by colour’ games to ‘how fast can they clean-up’, make clean-up time fun. Now, you get to have fun watching instead of doing, as your children laugh and race their siblings to the finish line. Kids are smart, but they’ll fall for it at least a few times before catching on. 
 

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If you’re not ready to give away your child’s first set of baby toys, onesies or favourite stuffed animal that they couldn’t sleep without, store sentimental items with Wigwam Self Storage. With long and short-term personal storage solutions, you can store items for as long as you need.  

Call us on 01608 656300 (Chipping Norton) or 01527 222321 to arrange an appointment at the first automated self storage facility in Bromsgrove!  

Student life is an exciting new adventure where you’re out in the world and learning new things. One lesson is taking charge of your health and nutrition and not relying on takeout as much as possible. However, if cooking is not your forte, we’re here to help. Below, we’ve rounded up a few of the best no-fuss meals for student living. 

Lo Mein 

Perfect with beef, chicken or just veggies, this no-fuss meal only takes 20 minutes and two pots to whip up. Infused with delicious Asian flavours, the main ingredients you’ll need are lo mein or spaghetti noodles, your protein of choice, soy sauce, hoisin sauce and sesame oil.  

Get the full recipe here 

Pasta Bake 

All you’ll need for this easy dish is your preferred pasta and tinned or fresh tomatoes for the base. Then it’s time to get creative with your favourite veg, herbs, protein and creme fraiche for a lovely texture. It’s also easy to make for a group of friends or if you’re meal prepping for the week ahead.  

Curries 

With premixed curry paste and some coconut milk, you can whip up an easy and tasty curry – Thai green or red curry paste is especially popular. Remember that chicken thighs are cheaper and more flavourful than breast meat if you’re going for a meat option, otherwise potatoes, chickpeas and rice are all great substitutes.  

Quesadillas 

With a pack of tortillas, cheese, veggies and your protein of choice (optional), this flavour-packed meal can be ready in less than 30 minutes. Layer your chosen filling on a tortilla, add cheese and top with another tortilla. Dry fry in a pan until golden and the cheese has melted (about 5 minutes), and voila!  

For Jamie Oliver’s famous veggie quesadilla recipe, click here 

Soups 

Soups are not only easy to throw together in a hurry but they’re packed with flavour and nutrients whether you prefer veggies or love a hearty meaty soup. Additionally, they require minimal clean up and are a great way to use leftover ingredients before they go bad. 

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Get a wide range of soup recipes here 

If your cluttered dorm is a cooking hazard, store unessential dorm room items with Wigwam. With secure student storage available in a wide range of sizes, you can store as much or as little as you need. To learn more, give us a call on 01608 656 300 or pop into our Chipping Norton facility for a tour. 

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.  

Student holidays are almost over and it’s time to dust off the books and prepare for another term of studying, socialising and working toward your educational future. University students in the UK are gearing up for a productive summer term, and planning is key to making it a success.

Are you looking for a few tips to prepare for the summer term? We’ve put together a few useful tips to help you prepare for the upcoming summer term.

Set academic goals

Take time to outline your academic goals to make sure that you prioritise your studies while enjoying the summer term. Begin by organising your time and creating a study schedule. Be realistic about what you’re able to accomplish in the time available, and outline healthy habits to keep your mind and body physically healthy.

Prepare your devices

Gone are the days of relying on large textbooks and queuing in the library. Being a student in the 21st century means that you can study from any place at any time, as long as you have a reliable device. Before the term starts, make sure that your computer, tablet or smartphone is in good condition and that you’ve downloaded any applications if needed.

Revise the university social calendar

Socialising at university is a great way to make lifelong friends. Most universities have clubs and organisations to help integrate students based on their extracurricular interests. Familiarise yourself with the university’s social calendar and make note of the important dates, making sure that you get your assignments done on time.

Get all of your belongings in order

If you’re travelling from another city to attend your university of choice, then you need to get all of your belongings in order before the term starts. Pack what you need for the upcoming term and make sure that you have space for all of your sports equipment, books, furniture and belongings. 

If you need extra, secure space, then student storage provides an affordable and convenient solution!

Establish a learning environment

A productive learning environment can make a big difference in your academic results. Consider the best learning environment for you and choose a space that offers a reliable internet connection, has enough space for your needs, and meets your preferred level of silence. Once you’ve established a go-to learning environment, it’ll be easier to follow a positive studying routine.

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At Wigwam, we’re committed to helping students in Oxfordshire have an easy moving experience. Whether you’re moving into your own apartment a mile down the road from your parents or travelling from across the country, we have a place for your belongings.

Our safe and secure units are easily accessible and available with affordable lease agreements, providing a space to store books, furniture, valuable belongings and sports equipment. We also offer a van hire service in Chipping Norton and offer storage packaging to further streamline the moving experience!

Contact us at 01608 656 300 to chat with our friendly team and find out more.

Using self storage for every season

Self storage is the gift that keeps on giving. It provides a safe and secure space to store household belongings during a move or keep stock while growing your business. Whether you’re renovating your home, decluttering or downsizing your space, self storage can make the process easier. Self storage can be used throughout the year, serving a unique purpose throughout spring, summer, autumn and winter – and here’s how!

Spring

Self storage is the perfect way to declutter your home while spring cleaning. When you have too many belongings, it can be difficult to know where to start. A self storage unit provides a safe and secure space to store your excess belongings until you know what to do with them.

You can easily access your belongings when you need them, and you’ll have plenty of space to store everything until you’re ready to get rid of it. Consider storing bulky coats, Christmas decorations, snow gear and winter equipment, making space for the warmer weather.

Summer

There’s a definite lifestyle shift during summer. The warmer days encourage people to spend more time outdoors, playing sports and entertaining guests.

Self storage is an affordable way to store any excess furniture such as couches and tables that were previously used to create a cosy winter space. Removing this furniture opens up living space in your home and garden for summer activities like barbecues and outdoor gatherings with friends.

Autumn

As the temperature starts to drop, you may want to start packing away your summer sports equipment and seasonal gear. Self storage serves as an extension of the home, with a range of unit sizes to keep cricket gear, watersports equipment and patio furniture.

Winter

A self storage unit is a great place to store holiday decorations, costumes and other festive items. You’ll also have plenty of space to store all your seasonal gear, and you can access it whenever you need it.

These are just a few practical ways that self storage can offer value throughout the year. At Wigwam Self Storage, we offer a choice of different storage unit sizes at both our Chipping Norton storage facility and our Bromsgrove storage facility, ranging from 16 sq ft to 250 sq ft to keep your belongings safe in every season.

Whether you want to store your snow boots in spring or your cricket gear in winter, Wigwam Self Storage is the way! Call us at 01608 656 300 and chat with our friendly team.

Spring break is a time for students to relax and enjoy their time off from their studies. For some, that means travelling to a far-off destination, while for others, it’s a trip down the road to a charming town. For those who prefer to stay closer to home, Oxfordshire offers plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation.

Let’s explore a few fun activities to do for spring break in Oxfordshire.

Enjoy the state parks

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, then you’ll love the countless state parks in the area. Many of these parks have wonderful hiking and biking trails for those who like to break a sweat. For a more relaxed experience, you can soak up the fresh air in the picnic areas and playgrounds.

Visit Oxford

The historic town of Oxford is bustling with activity, even during spring break when students are on vacation. There are plenty of beautiful buildings that showcase grand architecture, such as the Sheldonian Theatre and Christ Church. Each building has its own charm and magical allure.

Explore Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is slightly further away, but the hour-long drive is worth every minute. There are various shopping, dining and cultural attractions in the historical town. Loved as the birthplace of Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is a must-visit for literature enthusiasts.

Relax in the area’s beloved gardens

If you’ve had a busy term and you want to relax, then you can choose from a wide selection of Oxfordshire’s world-famous gardens. Green spaces such as Blenheim Palace, Hidcote Manor Garden, and Westonbirt Arboretum are all worth a visit, either as a solo student or with a group of friends.

Calke Abbey in Ticknall is a lesser-known garden that’s full of special surprises including an impressive forest and rare attractions like the monkey puzzle tree.

Cotswold Wildlife Park

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, then Cotswold Wildlife Park is the perfect place for you. Cotswold Wildlife Park is home to over 1 500 animals from all around the world. The park offers an interactive experience that’s fun and educational at the same time.

There are plenty of activities for you to enjoy during spring break in Oxfordshire. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in a beautiful garden or a deep dive into the historical beauty that surrounds the area – you’re in for a treat.

One decision that you don’t have to make is where to keep your belongings during the student holidays. At Wigwam Self Storage, we offer affordable and flexible student storage solutions.

Contact our friendly team at 01608 656 300 to find out more about our various storage units and additional services, such as our man and van service in Chipping Norton, for added convenience.

Investing in a new home is a big move with lots of factors to consider, including security. There are a number of reasons why security is important for new homeowners. One of the most important, outside of protecting your family, of course, is that it removes the stress of worrying if your investment is as safe as it can be. New homeowners often put a lot of time and effort into decorating and furnishing their homes, so it’s important to have a system in place that can help protect them from theft or damage.

Security can help provide peace of mind and make the homeowners feel safer in their homes. So, how do new homeowners approach the daunting task of securing their new houses?

Get friendly with your neighbours

One of the best ways to secure a new home is to get to know your neighbours. When you know who lives around you, you can keep an eye on one another’s homes and report any suspicious activity. If you see something that doesn’t seem right, don’t hesitate to reach out to your neighbours and let them know.

Install a security system

Installing a security system is an effective way to protect your home from damage or theft. A security system typically includes alarms, cameras, and other sensors that will help you keep an eye on your home at all times.

If you’re thinking about installing a security system, make sure that you research the different options available and find one that fits your needs and budget. Finally, be sure to keep your security system up-to-date and test it regularly to ensure that it’s working properly.

Lock doors and windows

It may seem obvious, but one of the simplest ways to keep your home secure is to lock your doors and windows when you’re not at home. The precautionary measure is a simple step that can make a big difference.

The same tip applies to the garage. Make sure that you lock the garage whenever you leave the home and avoid leaving tools or equipment out in the open.

Taking these simple precautions can help keep your home safe from theft or damage, but what happens when you’re busy moving or undergoing renovation?
If you’re looking for a safe and secure space to keep your belongings during a move or renovation, then our cost-effective self storage units in Bromsgrove and our self storage facility in Chipping Norton is a great solution. Choose from a variety of different unit sizes that are available to rent with a flexible lease, meaning that you only pay for the storage for as long as you need it. Call us at 01608 656 300 to find out more!