Alternative hen party ideas for crafty brides

SOMERSET brides-to-be can get crafty during a hen party with a difference at a shop in the county and learn the basics of chalk painting, so they can upcycle their own furniture at home.

The Emporium Somerset in Wellington says its chalk painting workshops are a great, crafty alternative for hen parties.

Cato Cooper, Co-owner of The Emporium Somerset on Mantle Street, which includes more than 50 different shops across three floors, selling thousands of home and gift items, said: “These days brides-to-be and their hens are looking for something a bit different to a night out on the town and we think our chalk painting workshops are a great idea for crafty brides and their bridesmaids, family and friends.

Crafty hen party“During our workshops hen parties can learn the basics of using Autentico Chalk Paint and waxes. I will teach them how to paint a piece of furniture from start to finish with useful handouts and tips included.

“I will provide wooden boards with some detailing, so that attendees can try out the different paints and we will cover distressing techniques, as well as layering. Everyone in the group will be able to compare their works, help each other out and sip on a complimentary glass of fizz to make the occasion extra special.

“Everyone who comes along will then be able to take their new skills home with them and go on to makeover and upcycle any old and tired furniture they might have at home.

“Materials such as paints, brushes, boards to paint, waxes, an apron and gloves will be provided in the workshop price as well as a picture frame for attendees to paint and take home.”

The workshops are suitable for beginners and will cost £40 per person. A maximum of seven people can attend and there will be a discount for groups of five or more. Booking is essential and payment is required up-front before the workshop takes place. To secure your spaces, please call The Emporium Somerset on 01823 660076.

Cato added: “Our workshops are the perfect opportunity for members of the hen party to spend some quality time together, learn a new skill and have some fun.

“Upcycling is a great skill to learn as you can give a piece of furniture such as a table, sideboard or cabinet a new lease of life. Recycling what you already have is a great way to save money, something newlyweds are keen to do!”

Housed in a Victorian chapel, The Emporium Somerset stocks cards, home accessories, furniture, home and garden wares, knick-knacks, plants, fresh flowers and a small selection of children’s toys. 

Cato added: “Our store is fresh, vibrant, light and airy with lots of inspirational, contemporary items, as well as traditional and vintage ones.

“Most of our shopkeepers’ products are either handmade here in the Westcountry, sourced from other British craftspeople and makers, or from ethical and Fairtrade companies. So, there are plenty of unusual items here for people to have a look at and they are reasonably priced too. By buying from us, shoppers are supporting the very backbone of the nation’s economy – small, independent, local businesses.”

As well as running the store, Cato also specialises in restoring furniture and runs a paint and home accessories studio and workshop in-store.

For further details and to book your hen party, please call The Emporium Somerset on 01823 660076, email info@theemporiumsomerset.co.uk or visit www.theemporiumsomerset.co.uk. 

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