Andover Trees United Hosts Festive Wreath-Making Workshop for Lloyds Banking Group

Volunteers from Andover Trees United (ATU) spread festive cheer this afternoon (3rd December 2024) by hosting a hands-on Christmas wreath-making workshop for employees of Lloyds Banking Group. Held at Keens House in Andover, the event featured two creative sessions, with up to 10 participants in each, resulting in stunning handmade wreaths ready to adorn doors for the holiday season.

The process began with willow sourced from Somerset, which had been carefully soaked for a week by ATU members to prepare it for crafting. Volunteers Wendy and Annette led the initial stage of the workshop, demonstrating how to twist the willow into sturdy and elegant ring bases. Their skilful guidance ensured participants could master the technique and lay the foundation for their wreaths.

Once the rings were shaped, ATU volunteers Lorna, Michelle, and Izzi took over, instructing the group on how to attach foliage to their bases. Participants were encouraged to carefully select small bundles of greenery, combining them in groups of two or three before securing them to the rings with eco-friendly jute string.

To add festive flair, the attendees decorated their creations with seasonal accents such as berries, dried orange slices, and pine cones, affixing these with wire to achieve a polished finish. A couple of participant even bought their own lights!

Both sessions resulted in a beautiful array of wreaths that captured the creativity and enthusiasm of the participants. A spokesperson for Lloyds Banking Group praised the workshop, saying, “The sessions went really well, and people have made some really nice wreaths.”

Andover Trees United expressed their gratitude to Lloyds Banking Group for their involvement in the event, with members highlighting the importance of such activities in building connections between the local community and businesses.

The event not only celebrated the festive season but also showcased sustainable crafting practices, using natural and locally sourced materials to create something special.

This workshop marked another successful collaboration for ATU, reinforcing their commitment to engaging the community in meaningful and enjoyable ways.