Festive Spirit in Full Bloom as Community Raises Over £2,200 for the Allendale Community Centre, Wimborne

Wimborne’s festive season began with generosity, creativity and community spirit as two sold-out Christmas Wreath Making Workshops at the Allendale Community Centre, Wimborne raised over £2,200 to support the much-loved charity at the heart of the town.

Held on 26th and 28th November, the workshops brought together over 60 participants for fun, creativity and festive connection, all while helping the Allendale continue its mission of inclusivity, support, and belonging.

The events were entirely sponsored by Poole & Wimborne Woodland Burial Ground, who provided all the natural materials, decorative items and tools.

Leading both workshops was Karen Hill, burial ground consultant and qualified florist, who gave her time, expertise and warm encouragement to guide participants through crafting their own beautiful natural wreaths.

“You could feel the joy in the room,” said Karen Hill. “People came to create something lovely, but they also came to support a place that genuinely matters. It was wonderful to be part of.”

All funds raised will go directly to the Allendale Community Centre charity, helping it continue providing safe, welcoming and essential services to the community.

The Allendale isn’t just a venue; it is a hub of belonging that tackles social isolation and supports some of the most vulnerable people in the area.

“What we do here is about belonging,” said Carole Chedgy, Vice Chair, Trustee “This fundraiser helps us remain a place where everyone, regardless of age, ability or circumstance, can feel safe, supported and part of the community.”

Participants described the workshops as “magical”, “uplifting” and “the perfect way to start Christmas.” Many have already asked if the event will return.

https://www.theallendale.org

Creating inexpensive Christmas wonderland décor for your home

Creating an inexpensive Christmas wonderland décor for your home can be a fun and creative project. You don't need to break the bank to make your home look festive and magical. Here are some ideas to help you get started:

DIY Ornaments: Create your own ornaments using simple materials like paper, felt, or even salt dough. You can paint or decorate them in a festive theme, and they'll add a personal touch to your tree.

Natural Decorations: Use elements from nature like pinecones, holly, and evergreen branches to create beautiful centrepieces, wreaths, and garlands. These are often free and can be found in your backyard or a nearby park.

Twinkling Lights: String lights can transform any space into a Christmas wonderland. Look for inexpensive LED string lights to hang around your home, on your tree, and in windows. You can often find these at discount stores.

Charity Shop Finds: Check out charity shops or second-hand shops for affordable Christmas decorations. You can often find unique and vintage items that will add character to your décor.

Paper Snowflakes: Create paper snowflakes to hang from your ceiling or windows. They're easy to make and add a delicate touch to your décor.

Candles: Candles can create a cosy and warm atmosphere. Look for inexpensive, unscented candles in Christmas colours and place them in decorative candle holders or mason jars.

DIY Christmas Stockings: Make your own stockings using old fabric or felt. You can personalise them with names and decorate them with simple embroidery or fabric paint.

Christmas Cards: Display your received Christmas cards on a string or a ribbon. It's a simple and sentimental way to decorate your space.

Christmas Printables: You can find free or low-cost Christmas printables online, including wall art, banners, and labels. Print and frame these to add a festive touch to your walls.

Repurpose and Recycle: Look around your home for items that can be repurposed into Christmas décor. For example, old glass jars can become festive candle holders, and a plain tablecloth can be transformed with some paint or fabric markers.

DIY Wreath: Make your own Christmas wreath using materials like old ornaments, pinecones, and ribbon. You can often find plain wreath forms at craft stores for a reasonable price.

Festive Table Settings: Create a festive table setting with inexpensive tablecloths, placemats, and napkins. You can also use holiday-themed dishes and cutlery.

Homemade Scented Pinecones: Add a wonderful holiday scent to your home by making scented pinecones. Simply dip them in a mixture of water, cinnamon, and a few drops of essential oils, then let them dry.

Budget-Friendly Tree Décor: Opt for a smaller Christmas tree, or use a table top tree. Decorate it with homemade ornaments, popcorn strings, and inexpensive tinsel.

Holiday Music and Movies: Don't forget to set the mood with Christmas music and films. They're a low-cost way to add to the festive atmosphere in your home. You can find many classical Christmas films on YouTube.

Remember that the key to creating an inexpensive Christmas wonderland is to get creative and use what you have. Incorporate your own personal touches to make your home feel warm and inviting during the holiday season.