Key Features
The Jolly Makers is poised to be a game-changer in Oxford’s hospitality scene, being a unique, socially conscious hub that blends the relaxed atmosphere of a local bar and café with themes of community, creativity, and sustainability. Our mission is to combat loneliness and foster creativity through craft workshops, social events, and eco-friendly practices. As a social enterprise, we will reinvest profits into community-driven initiatives, such as employing elderly individuals, subsidising craft workshops, and promoting sustainability. The Jolly Makers will be a welcoming, inclusive environment where people of all ages can enjoy craft activities, socialise, and relax. Keep scrolling to see what we’ve got planned…
Community-Centred Atmosphere
The Jolly Makers will offer a relaxed, friendly environment where everyone is encouraged to take part in crafting, whether you're knitting your first scarf or working on an intricate embroidery project. Our communal tables and nooks will foster interaction and make it easy to meet new friends. The main café and bar area will be a warm, inclusive space where everyone feels welcome, regardless of crafting experience.
Workshops with a Purpose
A regular rotation of workshops will be offered, with a variety of skills and levels being taught. We are especially dedicated to promoting sustainable handcrafts and upcycling. Examples include beginner crochet using responsibly sourced supplies or “stash-busting” sessions where people work with their unused materials.
Sustainable, Local Drinks
We’ll feature ethically sourced and locally roasted coffee, as well as craft beers, wines, ciders and snacks from local and sustainable suppliers, making every sip and bite a way to support sustainable business.
Community Events
Regular events will keep the community coming back, with “craft and chat” nights that encourage younger and older generations to interact, participant-led skill-sharing sessions, and seasonal craft fairs. We’ll even host charity events, such as “stitch-a-thons”, where patrons’ creations can help raise funds for local causes. Come Christmastime, we’ll host a tree-decorating party where the community hangs their own handmade ornaments.
Craft Supply Retail
We’ll stock eco-friendly craft kits and supplies, so you can grab everything you need in one place and get started on your project inside the Jolly Makers. Our selection will prioritise upcycled, locally sourced materials.
Employment for the Elderly
We will provide meaningful employment opportunities to the elderly as greeters, craft mentors, or bar staff. They will offer warmth and craft wisdom, and help to promote inter-generational interaction and events.