July 21, 2017
by idandc
Our customers frequently ask us 'what are the best security wristband features?'
Event organisers want to make sure that nobody can copy their wristbands and get unauthorised access to their event.
Why? Because oversubscribed events can be dangerous if safe capacity is exceeded.
And, it can result in a bad experience for guests that have paid to attend, which can have a knock-on effect on revenue loss, a revoked license and ultimately the end of your event.
OK, so this is a worst case scenario. But this is why security is so important for events, and one element of a safe and secure event is the event wristbands.
When it comes to security features there isn't a 'one size fits all' option. Every event is different and therefore has a different set of requirements.
We're going to show you 5 of the most popular security wristband features.
1. The Wristband Lock
What is a wristband lock?
A wristband lock is a small clasp (or toggle) that fastens a wristband to its subject's wrist, preventing its removal.
Every security wristband has a lock which, by its very nature, is secure. But, like everything in life, people want options. Here are ours:
- The Barrel Lock: a plastic tube (or barrel) that slides one-way onto a fabric wristband. The lock has 2 layers of plastic teeth which grip the fabric material when pulled back, preventing the lock from sliding in the opposite direction, thus loosening the wristband.The 'Barrel' as we wristband folk call it, is by far our most popular security lock. It combines convenience, security and value for money. It is also our most tried and tested lock, and has gone through numerous iterations, with our latest version touted as 'the most secure wristband on the market' by one of our clients.The Barrel Lock is easy to close, even when there are thousands of people waiting at your gate. It does not require a closing tool and is not labour intensive.
- The SmartLock: a plastic hinged clasp with a metal pin, designed to pierce a fabric wristband and prevent removal.This lock only works in conjunction with 16mm wide woven fabric wristbands, but when applied is extrememly reliable and robust. The SmartLock does not require a tool to apply, but is not recommended for audiences of more than 10,000 people, as it can be labour-intensive to close the locks in large quantities.
- Metal Ring: This is a classic, yet very reliable closure made from aluminium. The aluminium ring is crimped with a tool and when closed, tightly pinches the two ends of the wristbands together. Although this lock requires a tool it is still a favourite among large music events and is known for its reliability.
- The Loop Lock: a socket and stud lock that loops over a fabric wristband and fastens into a pre-punched hole.
- Socket & Stud: The kind of lock used on all of our vinyl wristbands. Once secure, it can not be removed without being destroyed.
- Self adhesive tab: This is the type of fastener used to secure our Tyvek wristbands and Chroma wristbands.
What about re-usable locks?
Reusable locks wouldn't normally make their way onto a list of security features. But, some events actually encourage sharing of wristbands and others simply do not have a requirement for controlled access.
2. UV Wristbands
UV (ultra violet) is one of the most commonly asked for security wristband features.
What is UV? Ultra violet is actually a type of radiation produced by the sun or synthetic light sources like sun beds.
Sounds scary. But, in the world of print and wristbands, the term UV is a kind of a slang term for something that 'glows in the dark'. The glow is triggered by a UV light, (sometimes referred to as a black light) that is often found amongst the lighting arrangement in nightclubs and festivals.
At ID&C, we provide two variations of UV wristbands.
1. We can weave special UV treated threads into any of our fabric wristbands. This is a great security feature that is very difficult to replicate, especially in a short space of time.
To validate the wristbands as genuine, have your security staff and gate staff carry a small black light. The lights usually fit in a pocket and run for days on a couple of batteries. You can get them on Amazon.
2. We can print UV ink onto vinyl wristbands and Tyvek wristbands. This enables our customers to add security features across their entire accreditation.
3. Security Foils & Holograms
Printing a security foil or hologram onto a wristband is a great way to increase the security and prevent fake copies.
What's the difference between a foil and a hologram?
Put simply, a foil refers to the material used, whereas a hologram refers to the visual effect created. Foils can have a holographic effect though, but holograms are typically made from ultra thin layers of plastic.
Customers can have foils printed onto Tyvek wristbands. Or, they can have custom holographic stickers made for applying to vinyl wristbands.
There are also plain metallic wristbands with a holographic effect.
4. Barcode Wristbands
Printing a barcode is a basic, yet fool proof method of improving accuracy with access and identification.
It is very common these days to see barcodes used on concert tickets. In fact, some ticketing companies only provide digital tickets, which are only validated with a unique bar code.
Taking this tried and tested technology, and applying barcodes to wristbands helps an event increase its security as well as its operational efficiencies.
Wikipedia describes a barcode as "...an optical, machine-readable, representation of data; the data usually describes something about the object that carries the barcode."
For an event wristband, the 'data' and 'object' would be the 'ticket details' and 'ticket holder'.
In 2014, barcode wristbands were used to speed-up arena access for the 50,000 fans at the Isle of Wight Festival. The same technology was also used to link children's wristbands to the contact details of their parents, in case they got lost.
Bar code wristbands can be made in Tyvek, vinyl and fabric materials.
5. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
RFID is the latest and most high-tech feature available on a security wristband.
The benefits of RFID technology for events is widely commented on. Eventbrite, a popular event ticketing company, does a great job of describing the benefits of RFID in this blog post.
The three main applications of RFID technology for events are:
- Cashless Payments - With RFID, event attendees have the facility to pay for goods via an RFID wristband that can be pre-loaded with credit and topped-up or connected to a credit card.Food and beverage vendors use small contactless terminals that enable users to tap their RFID wristbands to activate and authenticate a purchase.
Using cashless payments at events can increase on-site spend by 35%
2. Contactless Access Control - In this scenario, an RFID wristband can be used in place of a traditional printed concert ticket. Details like ticket type, name and access are stored on a back-end RFID system, and authenticated by tapping a wristband against a scanner.
3. Brand Activation - Using RFID technology, event organisers are able to connect attendee's social media accounts with their event wristbands. Via digital photo booths fitted with RFID scanners, festival goers can do things like share their experience in real time without having to use their mobile phones.
This provides event organisers with the ability to extend the promotion of their event beyond those attending, and in real time.
We work with industry leading RFID companies to help integrate our RFID wristbands technology at all kinds of events.
RFID technology can be embedded into all of our core wristband types, but is most commonly an additional feature of a fabric wristband.
Conclusion
No two events are the same, which is why our customers can choose from a wide range of security wristband features.
From UV print to RFID cashless payments, adding more security will improve the operation of your event.
Improving the experience for your attendees generally means they are more likely to tell others about how awesome your festival was, or how quick it was to get in.
Improved security + better operations = Happy people & more tickets sold
Sources:
http://www.sunsmart.com.au/uv-sun-protection/uv
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barcode
http://www.festivalkidz.com/blog/electronic-scanning-child-safety-at-major-events/
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June 26, 2017
by idandc
So here we are again, it's the Monday morning after a somewhat politically charged Glastonbury weekend, and as we snip off the wristbands and re-adjust to life in the office (with a very strong coffee in hand) it got us thinking. Just where did the festival scene we know and love today come from?
We may go to music festivals for a number of reasons, be it the artists, beer for breakfast or elaborate fancy dress, but it's the distinct sociopolitical movements in the 1940s and 60s that dawned the first music festivals as our infographic below illustrates.
History of UK Music Festivals Infographic:
If you enjoyed these festival tips and think they would be useful to your own website audience you can feature the infographic and checklist. Please feel free to use the embed code below:
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May 27, 2017
by idandc
With another British summer just another the corner, it can only mean one thing – music festivals galore. That means it’s time for wristbands, polaroid snaps, sunnies (or maybe wellies), and so much great music.
For some of this year’s finest music festivals, look no further than London. Who needs a field in the countryside when an A-list line-up and whole host of fun is just a tube ride away? We’ve compiled a list of 2017’s best music festivals in London, including when and where they’re happening, as well as the must-see acts.
1. Steadily becoming one of London’s most popular music festivals, Field Day hosts some of the world’s first-class alternative acts, from promising indie artists and dance producers to quirky pop and folk musicians. To keep spirits high all day, the event will be supporting local charities and micro-breweries, as well as hosting a games area for non-musical entertainment.
When: Sat 3rd June 2017 Where: Victoria Park, London Artists to watch: Aphex Twin, Flying Lotus, Whitney
2. For the fifth year running, Hyde Park is hosting British Summer Time. With some of the biggest names in music – from Kings of Leon to Justin Bieber – the event now gains as much publicity as Wimbledon. BST is putting on a jam-packed week of theatre, movie nights, live radio broadcasting and tennis screenings. There’ll be trendy pop up bars and street food stalls too.
When: Fri 30th June – Sun 2nd July & Thurs 6th July – Sun 9th July 2017 Where: Hyde Park, London Artists to watch: Justin Bieber, The Killers, Kings of Leon
3. Set to wow the crowds for another year running is one of London’s coolest festivals, Lovebox. With a line-up that includes Frank Ocean, Chase & Status and plenty of heady acts, Victoria Park is the place to be this July. This will be a weekend to remember with games, ping-pong and karaoke, as well as one-off vintage boutiques and body-art designers.
When: Fri 14th - Sat 15th July 2017 Where: Victoria Park, London Artists to watch: Frank Ocean, Chase & Status, Jamie XX
4. Doing things differently, Citadel Festival is bringing a full day of music and fun to Victoria Park in July. On top of a fantastic line-up that includes Foals and Laura Marling, Citadel brings plenty of arts-orientated entertainment, as well as great food and booze. As if that wasn’t enough, this year’s festival will include a spandex dance-workout zone.
When: Sun 16th July 2017 Where: Victoria Park, London Artists to watch: Foals, Bonobo, Laura Marling
5. Head to Clapham Common this August bank holiday for a weekend of dance music at South West Four. The biggest DJs will be booming out big-room house, electro, techno and trance, and legendary dance acts such as Pendulum will perform live. If you can’t make it to Ibiza this summer, this festival promises to be the next best thing.
When: Sat 26th - Sun 27th August 2017 Where: Clapham Common, London Artists to watch: Pendulum, Deadmau5, Tinie Tempah
6. Set to be its last after a successful fifteen-year stint, the Secret Garden Party plans to go all out this July in Cambridgeshire – only a couple of hours from London. Sticking to its themed tradition, this year will be embracing a ‘celebrity’ theme. They’ll also be hosting a spiritual playground, scientific talks and creative workshops. We can see why the organisers wanted to keep this festival under wraps!
When: Thurs 20th - Sun 23rd July 2017 Where: Abbots Ripton, Cambridgeshire Artists to watch: Metronomy, Crystal Fighters, Toots & The Maytals
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April 28, 2017
by idandc
Winner of the 7th ID&C Grass Roots Bursary Announced
Now in its 7th year, you’d think it would get easier to choose a winner however as always, the competition was strong and the decision was tough. After much conversation and deliberation at the ID&C HQ, independent music and arts festival Samphire has been selected as this year's ID&C Grass Roots Festival Bursary winners!
We were bowled over by the number of applicants this year and the diversity of every festival was astounding. We’re truly inspired by the efforts everyone goes to, to make their festival a success.
Award winning Samphire festival tipped the post to win the £2500 prize after impressing us with their drive to engage their local rural Somerset community and to educate on environmental responsibility and sustainability, through initiatives that include a beach combing litter collecting exercise led by charity ‘Suffers Against Sewage’.
Co-founded by couple Flora Blathwayt and Josh Beuachamp, Samphire Festival is set to take place on the stunning coast of Exmoor National Park this July from the 7th-9th July. Their ethos is “to bring great art and fun people together in a beautiful corner of the world”. Sounds good to us!
Organiser Flora said "When ID&C called and told us we’d won the Grass Roots Bursary it was the most cracking news and such a fab confidence boost to know that someone believes in us. Thank you so much ID&C Wristbands".
Josh added “We couldn’t afford festival guides last year which was a real shame as it’s something a lot of festival goers (including myself!) really love but winning this bursary will enable us to bring them in which makes us very happy".
Sending a huge thank you to all festival organisers who applied to the Grass Roots Bursary during this busy time of year and we wish you all the best of luck with your events this summer.
Apply for the 2018 Bursary
Click to apply for the next ID&C Grass Roots Festival Bursary 2018.
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April 7, 2017
by idandc
Tag Your Wristband in Action to Win
All you insta-loving festival goers out there listen up! Accreditation & access control company ID&C is offering a £250 Amazon Voucher to their favourite Instagram wristband photo this summer.
To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is:
- Follow @idcwristbands
- Post a photo of your festival wristband in action and share on your personal account using the hashtag #idcwristbands
- Kick back and wait to hear if you're the lucky winner!
Enter by 15/09/2017 and we'll announce the winner shortly after. The lucky winner will be contacted via Instagram.
Best of luck peeps!
Now for the boring but important bit, the full T&CS:
ID&C Share + Win £250 Amazon Voucher Giveaway Terms and Conditions
1. Terms and conditions - ID&C Instagram competition. To participate in this competition, users must share their wristband image on Instagram using the hashtag #idcwristbands
This competition will run until 23:59 on Friday 15th September 2017. Entries made by direct reply to this T&C page will not be accepted.
2. There will be 1 winner who will be selected at random after the competition deadline of 11.59pm on 15th September, who has fulfilled the criteria in 1) above. Entries made after this point will not be counted.
3. The contest is open to residents of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) over except for ID&C employees, all contractors and families or anyone directly connected with the organisation, and operators of its brands and concessions.
4. The prize is a £250 Amazon Gift Voucher that can be used online at https://www.amazon.co.uk/ only.
5. If you are the lucky winner, you will need to provide your email address, contact phone number and home address as instructed at the time of being announced as our winner.
6. We reserve the right to provide an alternative prize of equal or greater value in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
7. Only one entry per person will be accepted. In the event of multiple entries being received from the same Instagram account, the first entry only will be accepted.
8. No purchase is necessary, however you will need an internet connection and access to Instagram. No refund may be claimed for expenses incurred in participating in the promotion, including in relation to the use of the internet.
10. The prize is non-transferable, non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for any cash alternatives in whole or in part.
11. The winner will have 48 hours to claim their prize from the date that they are announced as a winner. After this time we reserve the right to select a new winner.
12. The decisions of the promoter are final and no correspondence will be entered into.
13. By taking part in this promotion, all participants consent to us collecting, storing and using their personal data submitted with their entry for the purposes of this promotion.
14. Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be used for marketing purposes without the individual's prior consent.
16. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram, Twitter or Facebook. You are providing your information to ID&C and not to Instagram. By participating in this promotion you agree to a complete release of Instagram from any claims.
18. Winners may be required to participate in related publicity without further reward. E.g. provide a short statement about their win.
19. The promoter reserves the right to withdraw or amend without notice this promotion in the event of any unforeseen circumstances outside of its reasonable control.
21. This promotion is subject to Instagram’s terms of services which can be found at: https://instagram.com/about/legal/terms/
22. Promoter: ID&C Ltd. (Co.Reg.No. 3093337) whose registered office is at Unit 1 Decimus Park, Kingstanding Way, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 (“ID&C”).
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March 30, 2017
by idandc
You've got the event details sorted, your branding is on fire 🔥🔥 and you've got sponsors queuing up to have their logo printed on everything! Especially the lanyards... "the lanyards are the deal breaker!"
So now here you are, you have the logo and everything is in place but what the heck is a lanyard and what does it do? Don't worry we've got your back on that one, read on and hopefully we'll get through all that jargon.
What is a lanyard?
A lanyard is the bit of material that goes over your neck and holds a laminate pass or badge. It's not uncommon for lanyards to be referred to as: neck straps, neck ribbons, event strings, key ribbons... the list goes on. And, then there's those that use 'lanyard' as a collective term for the lanyard and the pass... no! Don't worry though we always know what you mean😜 !
What are lanyards used for?
Lanyards are used everywhere, from holding RFID key cards that opening office doors, to the coveted VIP and backstage passes used at events. They can be fully customised, with a choice of widths, clips and attachments.
Where can I buy lanyards?
Well, right here of course! ID&C has been supplying lanyards for promotional use, events and festivals for over 20 years. Our minimum lanyard order is just 50 pieces and you can make your own lanyards with our online design tool.
What's the average price of lanyards?
Our lanyards start at just £0.69 for a totally bespoke print!
What is a laminate?
This is where all the confusion starts, many people think this is also called a lanyard, it's not. The laminate pass is totally separate, it's the card bit with all the info on it. The pass can be attached to the lanyard providing it has been designed with a hole punch.
Summary
There you have it, a lanyard (the bit around your neck) and the laminate (the bit with the info) are two different things that come together to give you the ultimate event pass! - In the words of the Spice Girls, '2 become 1'. Most importantly though, both can be customised to keep both your boss and sponsors happy.
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March 7, 2017
by idandc
Hands up who's guilty of making a pledge to 'give back more', 'pass it on', 'make a contribution to society' etc. etc., but then doing absolute diddly-squat about it? It's not because we don't want to take time to fundraise, it's just because...well there is always something that gets in the way. 'I'm too busy, I'll vow to do something next month'...next month becomes next year and a new, New Year's resolution.
Why Fundraise?
We found out the top reasons that motivate people to fundraise:
- Wanting to support a particular charity or cause close to their heart
- They are inspired by a person, whether it be a friend or family member, celebrity or leader, which drives them to fundraise
- To feel good and help make a difference to others
- To take part in an event and set a personal challenge whilst raising money for a cause in the process
Any of these sound good? What if there were fun, creative and easy ways to fundraise that didn't impact your time and work/life routine? Well we've been asking around and doing some research to put together a great hit list of ways you can get involved and finally accomplish one of your life to-dos.
Something for Everyone
1. Bad Dress Day: Get people to come to work or school in bad dress. Think 70's jumpsuits or bold print shirts with mismatching trousers. Or denim-on-denim...on-denim! Charge those who take part £1 and those who don't pay a fine(!) of £2.
2. Cake Sale: Easy to organise, everybody can get involved whether you're baking or sampling, plus who doesn't love cake? They make for a great social occasion that usually raises a surprising amount of money.
3. Host a gig or small festival: This will take a bit more planning but the rewards will be well-worth the effort. Think festival vibe in a pub garden with local bands, hay bales and kegs of beer. Donate proceeds from ticket sales and sell commemorative awareness charity silicone wristbands/merch to raise extra cash.
4. Auction: One's trove is another man's treasure, so grab that box of random stuff clogging up your cupboard, ask your colleagues to do the same and voilà! You have a charity auction.
5. Hair-raising fundraising: Always secretly fancied rocking the Sinead O'Connor look? Now you have the perfect reason! Be bold and Brave the Shave to support men, women and children with cancer. It's easy to get involved, just sign up online, pick a date and ask loved ones to sponsor you.
6. Clubbercise class: Hire a sports hall or studio and set up a morning rave. Try a theme such as 90's club classics complete with smiley t-shirts, rave glow sticks and UV wristbands.
7. Host a Vinyl Night: People bring their favourite track on vinyl and play it ramped and amped up on a turntable. Great for rekindling old memories and by selling tickets/food you can donate all proceeds to your charity of choice.
8. Work it at the Car Wash: Take a boring chore and turn it into a fun fundraising event. Use social media to advertise the event to your friends and local businesses, set up at your work car park or anywhere you can get permission for with access to water, and away you go. Make sure to get some volunteers involved who aren't afraid of getting wet (because they will!)
9. Swear jar: Stick a box at home or in the office and every time someone drops a swear bomb they have to put £1 in there. Easy money!
10. Come Dine with Me: Gather a group of friends and charge a set menu fee at each other's houses for a different course of a meal. If you're feeling extra competitive, you can score after each course and the loser has to donate more.
Conclusion
You don't have to give up a huge chunk of your time to organise a charity fundraiser. Even small-scale events can make a big impact if you spread the word and get friends and family on-board.
Its undeniable that giving back feels good and can be especially positive in a workplace. It gives people an opportunity to engage, bond and work together towards a shared, meaningful goal.
These are just 10 of our top picks for charity fundraising ideas but we'd love to hear yours. Share here and we will pick our favourite.
Sources:
www.blog.justgiving.com/what-motivates-people-to-fundraise/
www.bravetheshave.org.uk
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February 6, 2017
by idandc
We’re feeling all giddy here at the ID&C HQ as we say see-ya to the longest January ever and look ahead to the summer. As festivals slowly start name-dropping their lineups (although we're having way too much fun playing "guess the headliner") we’ve taken matters in our own hands and compiled an A-Z list of our top festival picks for 2017. Enjoy!
Festival Roundup
A is for...Ambassador. Sign up for new electric festival Groove Loch Ness and earn yourself a free ticket for every 6 you sell on to your mates...and hone your entrepreneurial skills in the process.
B is for... Bestival. Unless you've been hibernating under a rock, you'll have heard that it's is on the move to Dorset's fancy Lulworth Estate from its old home on the Isle of Wight. We wonder what theme will fancy dress take this year? Share your predictions here for the chance of winning the festival glory trophy*
C is for... Cheese-rolling festival at Coopers Hill. Rumour has it that the cheese reaches speeds of over 70mph - now that’s extreme cheese chasing.
D is for... Downpours. Ah yes it's inevitable and last year the rain was off the scale! But this won't stand in our way of a rocking-weekend.
E is for... Eastern Electrics is moving. From Hatfield House to a brand new central London location. But don't worry folks as they promise this years line-up is their biggest ever!
F is for... Festival Awards. A staple great night in our calendar celebrating the best of the bunch. These guys are in the know. Check them out for inspiration of where to head this year at www.festivalawards.com
G is for... Grass Roots - the hotly anticipated bursary by ID&C. There's still time to enter for 2017’s entry here: https://www.idcband.com/grass-roots/ but don't leave it too late as entrants close in April!
H is for... Hot air balloons galore at Bristol International Balloon fiesta, a fabulous free four-day festival that promotes fun for all the family.
I is for... Independent music festivals doing what they do best.
J is for... Jumping Bean Burrito’s crew feeding the masses with mouthwatering Mexican nosh.
K is for... Kigu’s. Huh? Yes, expect these animal character costumes to make another strong appearance this summer.
L is for...Lovebox. You'll find us grooving to the smooth tones of Frank Ocean, then swanning around the treasure trove of Vintage wares run by stylist to the stars Judy Berger.
M is for... Manchester Pride 2017, which will see fashionista Gok Wan making an appearance on the decks spinning some 90s deep house and reggae on the Main Stage.
N is for... New electronic music discoveries at Noisily. The unexpected finds at festivals are the best.
O is for... bavarian madness at Oktoberfest. They'll see around 6 million punters consuming 7.7 million litres of beer and many, many Knödel’s. Fun times.
P is for... Pendulum, who are announced to headline sw4 - their first London gig in 5 years!
Q is for... Queens of the Stone Age are set to release their new record and head out on a world tour in 2017, so although nothing's set in stone (excuse the pun) we reckon a festival appearance could be pretty likely.
R is for... RFID used by millions at the world’s best festivals. Access control, cashless payments and social media integration - high-tech and innovative, it’s the way forward.
S is for... Sustainability, a growing trend on the scene. Shambala made the bold move to be the first meat and fish free festival last year and we reckon others will follow suit. The first fruitarian festival title is still up for grabs...
T is for... Truants. The tattooed heavy metal crew making the annual 168 mile ride-out from London’s Alexandra Palace to Donington Park for Download Festival.
U is for... Unicorn glitter - it’s a thing! And will be seen on all the cool Coachella kids.
V is for... Variety Bazaar? Nah we hadn't heard of it either. But wait, it's rumoured to be the Glastonbury's brand new festival in 2019 held somewhere "halfway to the Midlands". More information please!
W is for... Wet Wipes. Ah the festival staple. Need we say more?
X is for... the XX, doing the rounds this summer with confirmed sets at Lollapalooza, Coachella, Flow and Lowlands so far.
Y is for... Yachting Festivals. Sail and party with your mates and hundreds of others in a stunning bay. On a yacht. Not too shabby!
Z is for... Zooloos offering VIP wristbands to access luxury, portable toilets complete with hot showers and pamper areas.
Roll on Summer 2017!
*This doesn't actually exist...but we'd like to hear your predictions anyway
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December 19, 2016
by idandc
It's official, there are only 5 working days left until Christmas Day. It's time to pick yourself up and dust yourself off after 'Mad Friday' and get cracking with last minute preparations! But before you hit the shops in blind panic and throw tinsel up haphazardly, why not kick back with a strong cup'a'Joe and read over some of our tips to help point you in the right direction.
Faux Snow
Snow is falling, all around me… No need to wait for snow, spread the joy with your own snow-like décor. Thread cotton balls on twine, spacing them out and securing each with a knot on either side as you go. Great fun to hang on the window and watch your family’s faces light up with childlike glee on Christmas morning!
Santa Selfie
This year, photo booths were everywhere at parties, weddings and events. It’s ridiculously easy to set up at home to create an unforgettable Christmas party. All you need to do is download this printable template here , get some foam backing and sticks (wooden skewers work well) and you’re ready to capture silly selfie snaps!
Unique Decorations
Continuing our handmade Christmas decorations theme at the ID&C HQ, we’re getting creative with Tyvek wristbands. Simple yet effective!
Psst, don’t forget the last order date for Tyvek bands in time for Christmas is Wednesday 21st. Same for stock items too!
Personalised Sound Wave Print
Sometimes personalised favourite song gifts can seem a little…well, tacky. But this is far from it! Remember that song you and your mates went wild for at a festival this summer? A metallic sound wave print makes for a thoughtful gift and an awesome piece of art in one (£30, notonthehighstreet.com).
Reindeer Food
Every year Rudolph and his friends bust a gut to deliver all those presents and these days a raw carrot just won’t suffice! Guide Rudolph and his reindeer crew on Christmas Eve with magical reindeer food presented in cute hessian sacks. Your little ones can help join in on the fun for a real family effort.
Phew, now you're ready for your unconventional Christmas Day! Don't forget to share your efforts on our social pages, we love to see your unique ideas. The crazier the better!
Merry Christmas everyone and see you on the other side.
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December 13, 2016
by idandc
Hurrah, it's not too long to wait and see what santa has brought us! With just over a week to Christmas Countdown, you're probably hearing helpful Christmas tips such as: give your house a "deep clean", send final Christmas cards and buy your non-perishable food staples etc. Whilst this is all sound advice, here at ID&C we're sounding out more interesting, out-the-box festive tips!
How fancy are these little dudes! They will be an instant hit at your Christmas get-together and thankfully, are easy-peasy to make. Just cut felt into an 8x10 rectangle and some faux fur into a triangle roughly 2 inches wide by 4 inches long. Wrap felt rectangle into a cone shape, securing the edges with fabric glue as you wrap. Glue the faux fur "beard" to the inside of the felt "hat" and finish with a small pom-pom "nose." And they are good to go!
Some might say coordinating nails to match the holiday season is too much, but not us! There are tons of original tutorials out there, it's too hard to choose one. Snowmen and snowflakes? Candy cane stripes? Or gold and glittery...whatever you decide, share your efforts on our social page as we love to salute originality at ID&C! Here is a snippet of those that nailed it...(Oh yes, pun intended!)
Fill Your Own Bauble
Want to create your own winter wonderland inside your home? This bauble from Shabbystore.co.uk (£4 for 6) is a perfect start. Fill your clear glass bauble with twigs, feathers, sweets, glitter...anything you fancy to make your Christmas tree unique and interesting! Of course we had to go with a festival wristband theme. Give to a friend as a brilliant memento of your summer!
National Christmas Jumper Day
Every year people take part in Christmas Jumper Day across the UK and this year it will take place on Friday 16th December. Workplaces and schools will be taking part in the day to raise money for Save the Children. All you need to do is sign up at www.christmasjumperday.org, and donate £2, or £1 if you're at school.
Share a selfie of your novelty woolly and we will pick our favourite!
The Christmas Album
Chestnut's roasting on an open fire...an absolute classic! A yuletide anthem no less. Rumour has it that the song was written during a blistering hot summer. In an effort to "stay cool by thinking cool", the most-performed Christmas song was born. Who knew?
Next week we bring you (ahem, all together now) "The Final Countdown" Christmas blog! Love an 80's throwback.
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