by Tash Royal, Content Intern
Here at Make It Wild, we’re keen to make it a little easier to have an eco-friendly winter. When it comes to gifts, it can be a struggle to find something meaningful that also avoids any detrimental effects on our world.
As time goes on, more and more people are prioritising experiences over things. This trending outlook is well-documented, especially among younger generations. The notion that our memories, our minds, and our bodies benefit from the things we can do rather than the material gifts we receive is something we as a society should look to encourage. The less “things” in circulation, and possessions being bought for the sake of buying, the better! The environment certainly appreciates it, and it seems that people do too.
Here are some of the gifts we offer at Make it Wild that are an alternative to physical things. Experiences to enjoy and make memories to treasure, and dedications which offer a wonderful long lasting gift which also helps our precious planet.
A wonderful gift, something for everyone.
On the 6th of December, Make it Wild are offering a unique opportunity to venture into ancient woodlands just outside Harrogate, guided by our wonderful team. Alongside gaining ample knowledge about the best flora available in Banks Wood, participants in our small group will be able to build their very own Christmas Wreath made from the natural material they’ve gathered, by our cosy log fire. With seasonal crafts and a special winter walk, you’ll be in the Christmas mood in no time.
Book now to join us on December 6th! New reduced price for the last few places.
For more information, follow this link.
Did you know there is a wealth of wild, edible resources at your fingertips if you know where to look? With expert tuition about British plants and fungi, you’ll end the session with a meal cooked with ingredients harvested by your own hands in a sustainable and natural process! Depending on the yield, you could make:
Our foraging days are bookable now for March, July, and September 2023. The perfect gift to give to your family, friends, or even yourself! A wonderful way to reconnect with Nature, and to gain memories and knowledge!
For more information, follow this link.
Rewilding Your Garden Workshop
In our fantastic garden-rewilding workshops, you will learn how to maximise the natural beauty and biodiversity of your own patch – with style! With advice and teaching from the wonderful Jan Hoyland, former National Trust Head Gardener, you’ll be getting your fingers dirty in our ancient woodlands and meadows. With nature as your inspiration, and expert tuition, you’ll gain knowledge on pollinator-friendly plants and healthy habitats.
We have two sessions on offer:
These sessions can be enjoyed together or separately, and would be the perfect present for the nature-loving gardener on your gift list.
For more information, follow this link.
Art Workshops
We are delighted to offer, new to Make It Wild, our wonderful Nature-inspired Art Workshops. We have a Rug Ragging workshop, led by Karina Wiles, and a Painting with Natural Inks workshop, led by Wendi May New. These two artists will guide you through both the woods and your artistic process, with a nature walk to collect ingredients to make your own natural dyes and inks, and to gain inspiration for your piece. Participants have the opportunity to utilise our stunning studio, or to sit amongst nature as they work.
A wonderful gift for a loved one, or to experience together, and you’ll end the session with your very own piece of art!
For more information, follow these links.
Natural Ink workshop, 14th April 2023.
Rug Ragging workshop, 12th May 2023
All our dedications come with a personalised certificate. (but without packaging and transport!)
This directly supports the upkeep of the bird box, and you’ll receive an adorable photo of the birds that live in them as well as a certificate of sponsorship.
Our stunning Belted Galloway Cattle (or Belties) roam our fields as our conservation grazing team – they have encouraged an amazing abundance of wildflowers to return to our meadows.
Plant a Mangrove Tree in Kenya
Providing work opportunities and supporting local communities, our partnership project to protect and plant Mangrove trees in Kenya is such a worthwhile gift. Dedicate a mangrove tree to support nature, as well as Kenyan communities!
Tree dedications
Our tree dedications, with the option of a personalised plaque, make for an extra special gift, with the added bonus of being waste, gift wrapping, and transport free! Whether you opt for a century-old Oak, or one of our younger woodland trees, that little piece of nature will become a part of your story!
This Christmas, choose a gift that keeps giving, to the recipient and the planet, with our activities and dedications.