Shopping In Lincolnshire With LincsConnect

Shopping In Lincolnshire With LincsConnect

Shopping in Lincolnshire with LincsConnect by the Lincolnshire blogger, LincsBlogger

Click on the picture to go to the Twitter hashtag. You’ll see lots of local goodies there so give it a try for ‘Shoping made easy in Lincolnshire’

The Funny Thing Is…

Shopping in Lincolnshire with LincsConnect – use Hashtags! Do you find them confusing? Do you use them but don’t know why? The funny thing is that many people don’t really know how to use them so let me try to quickly explain:

A hashtag is just a label or name given to a section in a very large database.  That’s it!  It’s just a database.  Every time you write a post and use a hashtag your post will go to the appropriate folder in the database.  If you use two hashtags your message will go to two folders in the database. Use #LincsConnect and #ShopLincs for your shopping and online shopping in Lincolnshire.

Use The Search Bar 

To search for your messages just go to the search bar in your chosen social media platform and type in the name of the hashtag.  If you do you’ll find your post as well as every other post with the same hashtag.  However, be aware that the hashtag is specific to the social media platform you’re using so if you type a message on Twitter you won’t be able to find your post if you search for it on Facebook.

The hashtags go to a huge database which is used globally so if you use the hashtag ‘#Lincolnshire’ you’ll see what’s been posted for our County. If you search the hashtag ‘#LincsConnect’ you’ll find all of the messages that have been using the hashtag in Lincolnshire.  However, if you search the hashtag ‘ShopLocal’ and see how many countries are using that hashtag you’ll realise that it is anything but ‘local’.

Be Specific

Choose your hashtags wisely.  If you’re trying to get the attention of your local community the #ShopLocal hashtag is no good to you but the #LincsConnect hashtag is very specific to Lincolnshire and our close neighbours. For shopping in Lincolnshire with LincsConnect don’t forget to add the hashtags #LincsConnect and #ShopLincs

At this point you may be wondering what the hashtag has to do with Shopping Made Easy In Lincolnshire?  The answer to that is quite simple of course.  Using Twitter just type in #LincsArtCraftHour to your search bar to see what local art, craft, sculpture and photographic posts have been included over the last few years.  You’ll find everything from needlework to paintings, cards and photography and the list is growing steadily.  Not only will you find pictures but you’ll also discover links to local Etsy & Folksy shops and Facebook pages too so you really can shop on line while keeping your money in the local economy.  It’s a win, win situation don’t you think?  To make life even easier for you I’ve included links to the most recent artists & crafters below.

Shopping in Lincolnshire with LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger, LincsBlogger

Not on Twitter? Not everyone is of course so if you’re a Facebook user don’t despair because you can still access some of the messages from the local artists by typing in #LincsArtCraftHour to your search bar.

Facebook #Hashtags

If you’re a Facebook user please don’t despair because you can type in the hashtag #LincsArtCraftHour to the search bar to find everything that’s been posted there.  You’ll find several blogs as well as some posts by the local artists.  I haven’t tried it on Instagram yet but I can assure you it will be coming.

What’ve You Missed?

Lots of gift ideas have been posted including Christmas decorations and cards but the question really should be ‘who’ have you missed?  That’s easy to remedy; You’ll find a list below which includes some contact details too.

Advert

Park Street Eatery, AgeUk Lincoln - Shopping in Lincolnshire with LincsC connect the Lincolnshire blogger, LincsBlogger

Breakfast £3.70, Afternoon Tea £7.50 and 3 course dinners available too. What’s not to like? Why not visit The Eatery, 36 Park Street, Lincoln, Lincolnshire next time you’re in town? Please get in touch first though to book your visit. Just click on the picture to go to the Lincoln Age UK Facebook page or follow them on twitter @ageuklsl It’s all for charity and you get fed at a bargain price too! 

The Local List:

Shopping in Lincolnshire with LincsConnect – This list is set to grow and grow so please do make a note to keep checking in to see who else has joined us:

Twitter                                        Facebook                                        Etsy/Folksy                                      Website

@MelLangtonArt                        Mel Langton Art

@BurtonWard9                          Burton&Ward                                     Burton Ward

@origartprints                            fiduncart artist 

@elliestreasures                       elliestreasures                                     Ellies Treasures UK

@chrisdobbinart                       watercolourportraits

@Amanda_schonhut               Amanda Schonhut Photography

@jpbphotography                    Light And Dreams Photography 

@Scarletimpress1                   Scarlet Impressions Art                        Scarlet Impressions

@EnglandCreate                                                                                  Create-England

@ShaliniAustin                        Shalini.Austin

@Blackbird1976                                                                                   HDArtIllustration

@KcbraidsBeads                     KC Braids & Beads                              KC Braids & Beads

@Anitas_Cards_4U 

@TuLuDraws                          TuLuDraws

@HeyBeretDesigns                                                                             Hey Beret Designs

@JaneHaighArt                     Jane Haigh Art

@2021VisualArts                   20-21 Visual Arts Centre

@MadeWithMud                    Made With Mud                                    Made With Mud

Advert – Shopping In Lincolnshire With LincsConnect

Mandarin Therapies - mobile complementary therapies in the Lincolnshire area on LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger, LincsBlogger

Mandarin Therapies and @MandarinMothers provide a bespoke mobile complementary therapies service throughout the County of Lincolnshire and beyond. Call 07966 174878 to book your appointment today. Click on the picture to go straight to the Mandarin Therapies Facebook page.

More To Come 

So far the active hashtags are #LincsConnect #LincsConnectJobs #LincsConnectChristmas and #LincsArtCraftHour but keep watching as there will be more interesting hashtags coming very soon.

In Case You Missed It…

Here are some quick links to take you to some more blogs that you may find interesting:

Charity

AgeUK, Lincoln - Shopping in Lincolnshire with LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger, LincsBlogger

AgeUK Lincoln & South Lincoln are a registered charity needing your donations. However, you also have the chance to purchase an inexpensive meal here and be pleased to know that the profits will be going straight to the charity.

Let’s face it, you’re older now than when you first started reading this blog! Age creeps up on us all so it’s nice to know there is a charity here to help us when we need it.  If you would like breakfast, afternoon tea or a full meal don’t forget to book your place early.  Breakfast starts at 9.30am.

Stay Safe

Please go ahead and enjoy yourself but lease also remember to stay safe.  Keeping a social 2m distance, regular hand washing and wearing a mask when required will help you, your family, friends and everyone around you.

Christmas in Lincolnshire 2020

Christmas in Lincolnshire 2020

Christmas In Lincolnshire 2020

Christmas in Lincolnshire 2020. With the #LincsConnectChristmas hashtag set to go live on 7 Sep, the big question is “Will Christmas be different in Lincolnshire this year?”

It’s certainly going to be different for me.  Some Christmas traditions will be abandoned completely! Four days in London for festive shopping, to see the lights and to see a show or two. CANCELLED.  Spending lots of money (probably too much) on presents and ‘niceties’. CANCELLED.  Pantomime on Christmas Eve. CANCELLED. Festive Christmas Market. CANCELLED.

Will visits to different Counties for present deliveries still be allowed or will there be travel restrictions? Christmas parties will certainly be different!  A Zoom party may be the best we can expect?  On a different note completely, many people will be experiencing their first Christmas without a loved one.  With lots of deaths as a result of the pandemic many families have been affected by the sad loss of loved ones.

Christmas Is ‘Not’ Cancelled

I for one have been affected by the virus, both as a casualty and financially.  Although some symptoms still linger from the virus I’m grateful that they are minor.  Financially I have been hit hard by the virus so a big spending spree this year is most certainly off the agenda.  However, some traditions will remain.

I’m looking forward to getting the decorations down from the loft and seeing the trees decorated.  I’m also looking forward to doing some Christmas shopping (yes, I ‘really do’ enjoy Christmas shopping) even though it’s going to be different this year.  I think it’s going to be important to keep in mind that Christmas ‘is’ coming and will be here on 25th December. It’s  just the same as it is every other year.

With that in mind I think it’s going to be even more important this year than any other year to support our local Lincolnshire traders.  The temptation may be to ‘go online’ to shop and have the presents delivered but please don’t forget that our local traders supported us throughout the pandemic whenever they could. They’ll be more than happy to help with your shopping needs now too.

It’s been a very steep learning curve for most but the majority of our local businesses have adapted well to the concept of ‘click and collect’ or home deliveries.

Christmas In Lincolnshire 2020 – Shop Early

If we are to see our local businesses continue to thrive we need to get behind them more than ever now.  The supermarkets had bumper sales during the lock down while most local traders struggled to keep afloat.  Our High Street has changed with many big name shops either shedding staff or closing for good.

If we are to see our economy grow, ‘now’ is the time to support the smaller shops, markets and sole traders.

#LincsConnectChristmas 

The #LincsConnectChristmas hashtag will be live from lunch time on Monday 7 September 2020 so I have two very important requests:

1.  Please use the #LincsConnectChristmas hashtag on your Christmas tweets, Facebook and Instagram posts

2.  Please, please, please search the #LincsConnectChristmas hashtag on social media to see what local messages/offers have been posted.

Don’t know how to search a hashtag?  Actually, it’s really easy.  All you have to do is go to the search bar on your chosen social media platform and type in #LincsConnectChristmas and look at the latest posts.  Yes, it ‘is’ that easy!

#LincsArtCraftHour 

The Lincolnshire based  #LincsConnect #LincsArtCraftHour starts on Monday 7 September 2020 so please make a note in your diary to visit the hashtag every Monday from 12.00pm.

The hashtag should gain momentum each week and it’ll be an ideal way to shop for local gifts either for Christmas or for any other occasion. In fact, who needs a special occasion?

The thing is with art, craft, sculptures, jewellery, decorative furniture and nice things to hang on your wall or put on a shelf, you never know when you’ll find that one single item that really catches your eye and calls out to you in its own special way.  Obviously we don’t all like the same things so a diverse array of goodies is what we need. A regular look at the hashtag to see what new items have popped up will be perfect.

Even if you’re not in the market for a new item it’s worth having a look to help support some local traders by sharing their posts.

More To Come

If there is enough interest I’ll happily include more hashtag hours to help our local traders.  How about #LincsAuthorsHour #LincsMarketsHour #LincsGardeningHour ….. What would you like to see?  Please take a look at one of my previous blogs to give you some ideas:

Help Me To Help You

Click on the picture or on the blue link to go to the ‘Help Me To Help You’ blog 

Help Is At Hand

I touched on the subject of bereavement at the start of the blog but some of you may have found yourselves taking on a carers roll too.  If this is you or you know someone who is caring and could do with some support have a look at this checklist from Age UK:

Click on the picture to go straight to the main website and don’t forget that there is always support and advice available from @AgeUKLindsey and @AgeUKNELincs

Advert

Mandarin Therapies provides bespoke mobile complementary therapies and injury rehab across Lincolnshire and beyond. NHS, 999 services and Armed Forces are also entitled to 20% discount.

 

If you would like to have an advert here or provide a guest blog please get in touch.

Stay Safe

Don’t forget to wear your mask as directed and wash your hands regularly.  We need to keep on top of the hand washing if we are to conquer this virus.  Stay safe and look out for your neighbours.

#LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger, LincsBlogger by LincsConnect in Lincolnshire

Looking Forward To A Bright Christmas

Looking Forward To A Bright Christmas

#EatOutToHelpOut Ends But…

Looking forward to a bright Christmas in Lincolnshire in 2020. The #EatOutToHelpOut scheme officially comes to an end on Bank Holiday Monday 31 August. I sincerely hope it has been a great boost to our local businesses and economies.

Not all of us have been able to take advantage of course as we’ve experienced some serious income deficits during the lockdown period.  However, ‘every little helps’ so let’s hope that the Lincolnshire restaurateurs have been able to recoup enough income for them to feel confident to spend more of their money locally.

Recession?

We’ve heard the stories about the recession and possible price rises over the coming months but there are also stories about ‘green shoots’ in the economy. The resilience of the British people to get on with their businesses to make money and pull the economy forward is a key to our success.

There’s much speculation with stories of ‘doom and gloom’ but I think it’s important to remember that many of the stories are literally just ‘stories’ written by journalists (trained or untrained). They may have an agenda unbeknown to us and may even be from a foreign country.

With that in mind, my cup is definitely half full.  Focusing on the bright side and being determined to make business work is what I do.  I truly believe that we (that’s you and I) are capable of making our businesses successful regardless of the circumstances surrounding us.  Do we need help?  Do we need to collaborate? Do we need to focus on the good things?  Absolutely!

I’m prepared to accept help and advice all day long and I believe it’s one of the keys to success.  Knowing when you’re out of your depth and needing help is crucial. As is knowing when to employ an expert to do a job properly.  When we work together we can often achieve much more so let’s Keep working and talking to each other.

#LincsConnectChristmas 

Use the hashtag to promote your business, charity gift idea or event this Christmas

After a pretty dreadful summer I believe we need to look forward to a bright Lincolnshire Christmas.  We don’t know what the future will bring with Covid-19 but we do know that Christmas is coming! Whether you like it or not, celebrate it or not, or even believe in it or not, the fact remains that it will be here on 25 December and we need to be prepared for it.  We may not be out partying as we have in previous years but we are resilient enough and creative enough to make it a good celebration.

#LincsConnectChristmas starts on 7 September to coincide with the new #LincsArtCraftHour.  Combining the two will give us the opportunity to see what our local talented and creative people have to offer.  We’ll have the opportunity to shop early and safely by avoiding the usual Christmas rush because, well, let’s face it, we really don’t know yet if there will be movement and shopping restrictions in place to avoid another Covid-19 wave of destruction.

A Christmas Hamper

In previous years we’ve had a virtual Christmas hamper where we’ve been able to add items of our own or recommend items from other traders.  The idea seemed to work well so I think it’ll be a good idea to do it again.

It’s time to start filling the Christmas Hamper…

 

The hashtag works on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram so let’s start thinking about filling it up with lots of local goodies.  Perhaps an example here might be useful.  How about these messages:

“I think the #LincsConnectChristmas hamper needs some speciality chocolates.  I highly recommend @BonBonLincoln who produce exquisite designer chocolates”

“No #LincsConnectChristmas hamper will be complete without some bespoke Christmas cards by @CardsOfGrimsby”

Adding a picture with each message will soon get the attention of local shoppers and will make the #LincsConnectChristmas hashtag the place to look for local independent Christmas shopping. With your help we can get this hashtag noticed and talked about around Lincolnshire and beyond to turn it into the ‘shop window’ for everyone to see.

A Christmas Meal

With no #EatOutToHelpOut scheme in place hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars will want to advertise their special meals and party events so the #LincsConnectChristmas hashtag is going to be ‘the’ place for them to advertise and I’m sure they’ll appreciate our support.

Let’s Work Together

I’m sure we can make Christmas a huge success but I do think that we will have to work together to achieve it.  Am I confident? Absolutely!

Put It In Your Diary

The #LincsConnectChristmas and #LincsArtCraftHour both start on Monday 7 September at noon.  Use the hashtags, search the hashtags and tell your friends about the hashtags.  They’re here for ‘you’. 

Advert

Mandarin Therapies & Mandarin Mothers provide bespoke mobile complementary therapies in the comfort of your own home, hotel or nursing home across the whole of Lincolnshire and beyond. Gift vouchers are available for that special person too.

Previous Blogs

To find out more about the #LincsArtCraftHour follow this link to the previous blog:

#LincsArtCraftHour For Lincolnshire, Newark, Retford And Hull 

Community

A message from Supt Paul Timmins of Lincolnshire Police following some sad and tragic deaths on Lincolnshire roads recently:

Click on this picture to open the video in Twitter 

Click on this picture to open the video on Facebook

We see far too many road deaths in Lincolnshire so please always ‘be aware’ and don’t become a statistic.  We love you just the way you are…. ‘alive’!

Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse doesn’t have age limits. If you know someone who is suffering call the police today.  You’ll find some useful numbers here but if there is an immediate threat of harm call 999.

 

 

A Helpful App

Visit your App Store to download this free App to your device

Let’s pretend you’re out walking or have gone for a drive when you come across an accident.  You dial 999 to contact the emergency services for help but then you don’t know exactly where you are.  You know you’re in the middle of a field or on a country road but you couldn’t direct the emergency services to the incident.  I imagine you might feel completely helpless!

I saw a post on Twitter asking the public to download the App What3Words so obviously I did.  I didn’t expect to ever have to use it but thought it would be a good ‘insurance policy’ should the unexpected ever happen.  I have actually used it though.  I was able to give the three words that were displayed on my iPhone screen to the control room who directed the fire service to the field fire that I had discovered on my way home last winter.  That’s it!  It really is that easy.  All you have to do is open the App and you’re immediately given 3 unique words that identify your exact location.

When opening the App you’re given the option to share the 3 words via social media or email or send it directly to one of your contacts so it’s a great way to pass on your location to friends if you are meeting them in town.  Typing the three words into the search bar your friends are able to navigate directly to you using the App so as well as being the all important navigation tool in emergencies it’s also a brilliant tool for finding your friends.

Louth Museum

Perhaps you could try out your new What3Words App with your friends.  If you’re on your travels why not pop in to Louth Museum?  It’s open to the public again and there is no need to book.  The museum is over two floors (stair lift available for those who may need it) and you’ll be respectfully requested to wait outside if the museum is full when you arrive.  Covid-19 regulations are in place of course so don’t forget your mask.  I’ve had a look at the website www.louthmuseum.org.uk and discovered a virtual tour as well as Ruth’s Blog page.  I thought you might find this interesting; It’s a factual account of the Lincolnshire floods in Louth on 29 May 1920.  Imagine seeing a 2m wall of water heading into town…

Click on the picture to read the blog

 

Just imagine how useful What3Words would have been in this situation if it had been available then.  Technology has certainly moved on at a remarkable pace!

Stay Safe

That’s the blog done for now but if you have something that you would like me to include or would like to advertise please get in touch. Have a lovely Bank Holiday everyone.  Look after yourself and look out for your neighbours.

Easton Walled Gardens

Easton Walled Gardens

Easton Walled Gardens

Easton Walled Gardens by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger Visit Lincoln

Click on the picture to discover the Easton Walled Gardens (EWG) ‘Whats On’ page and don’t forget to add the Sweet Pea Season which starts 21 Jun 23 Sunday into your calendar plus the Autumn Country Market. You’ll be pleasantly surprised I’m sure and you can even sign up to the EWG newsletter too.

Easton Walled Gardens (Grantham) Directions

Drive from Ancaster towards the A1. Before reaching the A1 you’ll see a brown sign directing you to Easton Walled Gardens.  It’s one of those hidden gems that you need to make the effort to see.

From the A1 take the turning onto the B6403 (High Dyke() towards RAF Cranwell and look out for the brown sign.  You could be forgiven for thinking it’s a small garden hidden away next to a busy road.  If that’s what you’ve been thinking, you really need to read on.

Easton Walled Gardens directions by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

The gardens are open Wednesdays to Fridays and Sundays from 15 February until 22 December 2023.  Make plenty of time to wander as the grounds cover a full 12 acres of gardens.  You’ll be able to discover new plantings and the latest additions while exploring the 80m long borders.  I’m reliably informed that the plantings have been designed to peak in August for your delight.

Easton Walled Gardens (South Kesteven) – Opening Times

The Courtyard Shop, The Coffee Room and The Gardens are open 5 days a week until 22nd December (Wednesdays to Sundays) plus Bank Holiday Mondays, 11am-4pm.

Easton Walled Gardens (Grantham) – 400 Years And Counting

It’s been 400 years in the making (and growing) and has the River Witham flowing through its grounds.  The cafe and courtyard are open for refreshments to keep you sustained during your adventures. The shop (both physical and online) is the place to be for your seeds and lovely gifts. There are even holiday cottages for those of you who want to stay for your next local break.  I’m sure there is quite a bit that I’ve missed off here so as a result I recommend a visit to the Easton Walled Gardens website to make your own discoveries. There is no need to book as the grounds are extensive. The gardens are posting on social media of course so for a quick update follow @EWGardens on Twitter.

Well worth a visit even if it’s raining. After all, a set of waterproofs or an umbrella along with some waterproof footwear will be all you need to experience the fresh garden smells that await you.

From Easton Walled Gardens To Grantham Canal

From Easton Walled Gardens to Grantham Canal by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger Visit Lincoln

Woolsthorpe Lock is just West of Grantham and is a great area to visit to see the current engineering work that’s going on to restore the Grantham Canal.

From Easton Walled Gardens To Grantham Canal

For boat trips, walks and beautiful scenery visit the @GranthamCanal for your next Lincolnshire visit.  I thoroughly recommend you take your camera with you and be prepared to be amazed!  The lottery funded work is really impressive and, all things considered, the volunteers deserve all the praise they can get.  You’ll be able to see what they’ve been doing if you search for them on Facebook too.  For that reason I’ve included a link here: Grantham Canal Society  If you like what you see you can join the team as a volunteer and/or make financial donations to help the project along. Obviously you’ll find much more information about this project and more canal walks and adventures on the www.canalrivertrust.org.uk website.  Additionally you’ll find lots of free guides for days out, maps, walking and cycling routes plus much more.

In case you are wondering, you’ll also find some lovely pubs on route for food and drinks.

National Garden Scheme

While you’re in the Belvoir/Rutland area you might like to take a visit to some of the lovely gardens in the Rutland area.  There are lots of gardens available for us to view throughout the year so please do take a look at the websites to discover what and when gardens are open in your area: Redhill Lodge

Easton Walled Gardens - National Open Garden Scheme by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire Blogger LincsBlogger Visit Lincoln

Find them on Twitter

I was going to write about the National Garden Scheme to explain what it is and how it works but, to be honest, I can’t put it any better than the words on the official website. As a result I’ve copied an excerpt from the website for you:

“Thanks to the generosity of garden owners, volunteers and visitors we have donated a total of £55 million to nursing and health charities, and made a record annual donation of £3.1 million in 2018. Our beneficiaries include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK and The Queen’s Nursing Institute.

By opening your garden, you’re not only giving people a great day out – you’re also raising money to help those in need. What’s more, you are joining a community of thousands of other like minded garden owners, all passionate about great gardens and raising money for great causes.”

National Open Gardens Scheme in Lincolnshire by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger Visit Lincoln Easton Walled Garden

Why not organise a visit to a garden in Louth? The Secret Garden of Louth is taking bookings and visits cost £2.50. Click on the picture for more details

National Open Garden Scheme in Lincolnshire by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger Visit Lincoln Easton Walled Garden

Mere House, Sturton by Stow is another garden to visit. Admission is £6.00 (children free). Clicking on the picture will take you to the website where you can book your visit.

Previous Blogs

Here are a few links to earlier blogs which I hope you find interesting.  There’s lots going on at #LincsConnect and there is even more planned so please keep an eye to for new features and events.

Love Lincolnshire Culture

Advertisement

Mandarin Therapies & Mandarin Mothers provides bespoke mobile complementary therapies from the comfort of your own home or hotel. Areas covered include Lincolnshire and beyond. Follow @MandarinMothers on Twitter or click on the picture to go to the Mandarin Therapies Facebook page 

Christmas Is Coming…

Don’t forget that the #LincsConnectChristmas hashtag along with the #LincsArtCraftHour hashtag goes live on Monday 7 September.  ‘Now’ is the time to start your preparations so look out for the hashtags and shop early & safely for Christmas.

Community

Bank Holiday Pharmacy services in Lincolnshire. Click on the picture for details of pharmacies that will be open near you and follow @ULHT_News for your health updates. 

NE Lincs virtual mental health support – just a Zoom away… If you’re in need of mental health support in the evening get in touch with @NAVIGOCARE by clicking on this picture to go straight to their website.

You may also like to take a look at the “Aviation Trail’ by Visit Lincoln

Aviation Trail by Visit Lincoln

Aviation Trail by Visit Lincoln

Stay Safe

Stay safe everyone.  Hand washing and social distancing is still the key to our continued success so keep up the good work.  Have a lovely Bank Holiday and don’t forget to put your rubbish in the bin or take your litter home with you.

Easton Walled Garden Keep Britain tidy by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

 

LincsArtCraftHour

LincsArtCraftHour

The LincsArtCraftHour Is Here:

The #LincsArtCraftHour by LincsConnect the Linc onshore blogger LincsBlogger

7 September 2020 – Was A Very Important Date

The LincsArtCraftHour is here! Monday 7 September 2020 was a very important date because it was the first LincsArtCraftHour and it’s here for all Lincolnshire artists and crafters of all genres. All are invited to post promotional messages and network using ‘two’ hashtags.

LincsArtCraftHour 

The LincsArtCraftHour is on Twitter from 12.00pm – 1.00pm every Monday lunchtime from 7 September 2020.

The idea behind it is to highlight the talent that we have in the County and to allow you to view what’s on offer.  You’ll find everything from cards to jewellery and paintings to sculptures with everything ‘arty’ in between. This weekly hour will give you the opportunity to see what’s on offer and even follow links to local online shopping.

Those posting will be able to include links to their Facebook pages, Twitter accounts, websites and online shops while at the same time showing off their huge talents.  ‘Christmas’ is coming (as it does every year) but don’t just see this as a virtual shop window for your Christmas shopping.  A gift for yourself, a ‘thank you’ card, a birthday gift or even a Mothers Day gift for next year are all possibilities.

You’ll also find some info on the Lincs Connect Facebook page too so please have a look to see what you think. I’ll also be interested to hear if you have any other ideas of course.

LincsArtCraftHour by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

LincsArtCraftHour – How It Works

If you’re posting messages on the #LincsArtCraftHour slot follow these simple steps:

Be sure to have your tweets ready to post (in real time or scheduled) by 12.00pm each Monday

Add a picture (or two) to show what you are advertising

Include a link to your website, Facebook, Instagram or online shop for people to follow

Use the two hashtags #LincsConnect and #LincsArtCraftHour in your tweet

Search the #LincsArtCraftHour hashtag to retweet and support others and to do your own free networking either live on the day or later in the week.  You can search the hashtag at any time 24/7.

Don’t ‘dump’ a load of tweets on the hashtag in the first couple of minutes (even if they are scheduled tweets) as it won’t look good on you.  Make sure your tweets are spread out over the hour.

How To Search The Hashtag

Searching the hashtag may be easier than you think.  Simply go to your search bar, type in #LincsArtCraftHour, click search (or enter – depending on what device you are using) then go to ‘Latest’.  That’s it! It really is that easy so make sure that we make the hour a success by supporting each other.  To make life even easier, each time you see the hashtag highlighted in blue here, that link will take you straight to the hashtag.

Finally, don’t forget to let your contacts know too.  Obviously the more people we have using, searching and talking about the #LincsArtCraftHour the more likely you are to increase your following and make more sales.

LincsArtCraftHour – Old Maps

The Lincoln Map Lady LincsArtCraftHour map painting by Fiona Duncan by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

Click on the picture to follow Fiona on Twitter or click on this link to find her on Facebook: @fidunkart

I know I’ve posted this before but it’s worth another mention.  I think these painted old maps are an excellent idea.  If there was ever a way to bring a map to life, this is it!  Why not give Fiona a follow on Twitter or Facebook to see what other delights she has in her portfolio?

Advertisement

#LincsArtCraftHour with Mandarin Therapies by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

Mandarin Therapies provides ‘the’ stress buster you’ve been looking for. Bespoke complementary therapies from the comfort of your own home with full Covid-19 safety certification. Gift vouchers available. Call 07966 174878 to book your appointment. Click the start button to watch the video.

LincsArtCraftHour – Christmas Is Coming…

Like it or not, love it or hate it, celebrate it or ignore it… It’s still coming and we need to start preparing for it

Many artists and local traders are still suffering with lost sales since March 2020 (Covid) so if you are going to recoup anything from that shocking year ‘now’ is the time to start planning it.

NOW is the time to plan your advertising for Christmas.  If you don’t, someone else will.  If you want to salvage some of your lost selling opportunities, NOW is the time to do it.

Charity

Age UK Lindsey on the #LincsArtCraftHour blog by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

Visit the Louth Age UK website for more information about their charity shop. Your safety is in mind and fundraising for those in need is at heart. Click on the logo for details

LincsArtCraftHour, Louth Age UK Shop by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

Are you a ‘vintage’ fan? If you are I think you’ll like this room in the Louth Age UK Shop. It’s your chance to grab a bargain while supporting a local charity at the same time

YMCA Lincoln advert on the #LincsArtCraftHour blog by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

Click on the YMCA logo to find out how they serve our community and discover why they need our financial support

LincsArtCraftHour YMCA Lincoln furniture and Brik-a-brac shop by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

YMCA Pop Up furniture and Brik-a-brac shop, The showroom, Tritton Rd, Lincoln.  The next dates are 26-29 Aug from 10.00am to 3.00pm.  Click on the picture to find them on Twitter 

Advert

Mandarin Mothers and Mandarin Therapies advert on the LincsArtCraftHour by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

Mandarin Therapies & Mandarin Mothers provide a bespoke mobile service throughout the whole of Lincolnshire and beyond. Call 07966 174878 to book your Covid-19 safe appointment or click on the picture to go to the Mandarin Therapies Facebook page for more info. 

 

LincsArtCraftHour - Mel Langton Art by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBloggerMel had a solo art exhibition in Lincoln starting on 7 Sep at the Gallery At St Martin’s, Lincoln with lots of new original artwork. Entry was FREE. The art was on sale of course and the gallery is happy to take card or cash sales. If you would like to know what Mel has planned next click on the picture to find the link for more information. 

Additional Blogs By LincsConnect:

 

That’s about all for now but please don’t forget to make a note in your diary for the #LincsArtCraftHour on Mondays from 12.00pm.  Tell your friends too

Stay safe everyone

Help Me Help You In Lincolnshire

Help Me Help You In Lincolnshire

Help me help you in Lincolnshire

LincsConnect has been busy on your behalf and things are set to get even busier. Click on the picture to see what’s been happening… Help me help you in Lincolnshire and beyond

Help Me Help You In Lincolnshire With #LincsConnect

Help me help you in Lincolnshire with #LincsConnect by interacting with the many local users. It can’t have escaped your attention that I’ve been busy on your behalf. #LincsConnect help and support is a given of course with retweets on twitter and posts on Facebook to help promote your business and events. Blogs too of course! I know you appreciate what I do and I appreciate the fact that you share what I’m doing too. I still need you to help me, help you in Lincolnshire though.

#LincsConnect – is here to support all things Lincolnshire but it only works when we work as a team. With 12,500 Twitter followers (steadily growing) I know that your help is working for me too.  However, at the risk of sounding cheeky, I still need more help.  Working together as a team is even more important than it ever has been.  You’re still posting your work using LincsConnect and I’m very grateful.  LincsConnect is trying hard to share your work around Lincolnshire, Newark, Retford and Hull but I really need to ask more people to search the hashtag #LincsConnect (on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) to help share the messages and support each other.

Just imagine, if all 12,500 local followers each searched the #LincsConnect hashtag and shared just one message….!

How Can LincsConnect Help You More?

What else can LincsConnect do for you?  Please let me know as I have plans for the account and need to know that it isn’t missing something important.

#LincsArtCraftHour

If you read my last blog you will recall that we have a dedicated weekly hour set aside on Monday lunchtimes to help promote artists, crafters, jewellery designers and sculptors.  Please take a look at the link below to refresh your memory:

#LincsArtCraftHour

Help me help you in Lincolnshire

Keep your eyes open for the #LincsArtCraftHour.  Click on the picture to go to the blog

I had a question for the Artists who join us and those of you who will be looking to see what masterpieces and bargains are on offer:  Which hashtag would you prefer?  Are you happy with #LincsArtCraftHour or do you think it would be better as #LincsArtCraft hour?  The latter is shorter and more general as it can be used at any time while the original idea is very specific to the Monday lunchtime hour.  Jointly you chose #LincsArtCraftHour so that is what we have been using for the last two years.

Guest Blogs

Do you have something to say that you would like to have included in the regular #LincsConnect blogs?  Please do get in touch if you would like to have your work included as it’s always nice to see you here.

Help me, help you in Lincolnshire

Help me, help you in Lincolnshire and beyond. If you would like to collaborate with your blog here please email me at martin@lincsconnect.co.uk 

 

Help Me, Help You In Lincolnshire With Featured Twitter Hours…

Do you have any featured hours that you would like to see on twitter? How about #LincsAuthors, #LincsMarkets, #LincsConnectJobs #LincsIT, #LincsHousing, #LincsGardening#LincsCharities #LincsFoodDrink …..?  Who do you think should have their own featured hour?  The hashtag is here to help you so whether you’re a trader, a charity or a potential customer, I wan’t to make sure that #LincsConnect has something for you.  Please do email your suggestions to me at martin@lincsconnect.co.uk  Perhaps you would like to host your own #LincsConnect hour?  I’m always open to suggestions so please do get in touch. After all, help in Lincolnshire with #LincsConnect is a two way process.

Here To Help

If there is something you need would you like to do a skills swap?  Would anyone be interested in a #LincsSwaps hour?  An our each week where you can offer your skills to swap for something of equal value?  Some of us may be finding finances a little tight at the moment but are willing to trade to get what we need.

Here’s an example:  A local restaurant may be in need of leaflets for a local leaflet drop and be willing to swap a meal to the value of £xxx in return for 200 hundred leaflet.  That’s just an example of course.  The exact figures would have to be agreed privately by the restaurant and the designer/printer but you get the idea I’m sure.  Again, if this interests enough people I’ll happily organise it.  You’ll need to get in touch though so that I know whether to go ahead with the idea or not. Help in Lincolnshire with #LincsConnect only happens when we work together.

Advertising/Local Discounts

Advertising space is always available on the blog so if you would like a spot here please let me know.  I could also arrange a feature with your advert to help highlight your business/organisation.  Again, just get in touch to make arrangements.  You can email me at martin@lincsconnect.co.uk

Help me, help you in Lincolnshire

Perhaps you have a special offer or would like to offer readers a discount?  You could have a voucher on here to share across the County.

Advert

Help me, help you in Lincolnshire

20% discount on Mandarin Leisure services for all NHS, 999 and military members across the County.

Featured Song Of The Week By A Local Artist

Each week I include a local artist, band or choir on twitter to highlight their work and show off the great talents that we have in our county.  If you have a favourite band with music on YouTube that you think should be featured please let me know.

All last week I featured Alex Cavan from Grantham with his song ‘Waterfall’.  If you would like to hear him just click on the picture below to go straight to his YouTube upload.

To hear Alex singing ‘Waterfall’ just click on the picture and if you would like to follow him on Twitter you’ll find him at @AlexCavanMusic

It’s For You…

The blog is here for you to support everything from the North to South, East and West of the County and bordering towns and villages too.  It’s for you and the rest of our community so please, please, please do share this blog and lets see if we can get more people reading it and interacting.

Stay Safe 

Stay safe everyone and keep looking out for your neighbours.

Sponsored by Mandarin Therapies and Mandarin Mothers. Bespoke complementary Therapies throughout Lincolnshire