The Creation Station

My Business

At the Creation Station, we offer award winning classes, parties and events that will spark children’s imaginations and nurture their creativity. We offer creative activities and classes to enjoy with for babies and pre-school aged children. Family fun creative classes at weekends and in the holidays for ages 2-11 years, crafty fun for grown-ups and creative well-being classes in the care sector. Also, with the squeeze on creativity in the education system, we are proud to support children, parents, teachers and governors with fun and educational after-school Create Clubs, and there is a growing demand for holiday provisions that offer arts and craft activities. People of all ages love to get involved with hands on activities and there is growing evidence to support the huge benefits that art and craft activities have for vulnerable groups such as dementia sufferers, those with learning disabilities and the elderly. We work closely with these groups to ensure that their arts and crafts experience is tailored specifically to their needs and what we offer is absolutely perfect! The great thing about our classes is children and adults enjoying themselves and exploring and celebrating their creativity. 

Where are you based and why is it a good location for your business?

I am based in Skipton, Grassington, Riddlesden and surrounding areas which have captive markets for creative arts due to an abundance of existing creative communities with a diverse range of people.

How did you come up with the idea?

I came across The Creation Station a few years ago when hunting for a career that filled my creative urges and offered flexible working hours. I was impressed with the company’s philosophies and vision for facilitating creativity for all ages and the diverse range of income streams they have developed to enable this. However at the time I didn’t feel ready for the commitment and instead trained as a teacher, but the seed had been sown and earlier this year I decided to trust my instincts and just went for it!

What stage was your business at when you applied for the start-up loan?

When I applied for the loan I had just finished my training week at Head Office. I had written the business plan and worked out the financial forecast with assistance from Fran at Head Office so was just starting out.

How have you used it to grow your business?

The loan I received has been used for a number of items, from premium products to ‘wow’ the children, to venue hire costs so I have the perfect place to inspire imaginations from.

Who is your regional delivery partner and how did they help you get a Virgin StartUp loan?

Phil from Airedale Enterprise Services who was fantastic support throughout the full application process. He guided me through the fine tooth-comb aspects of the application and, in short, ensured no stone was left unturned.

Biggest Achievement so far?

Slime workshops during half term! They were all great successes and even led to bookings for Slime workshops for Beavers and Rainbows which is fantastic.

What’s next for your business?

In the next 12 months I plan to be the go to person for Creative classes, parties & events in Skipton, Grassington, Riddlesden & Surrounding areas – running an exciting and profitable business that will enable me to grow year on year and offer the North West the absolute best in creativity.

Local Creation Station: Owned and run by Melanie Dekker

Loan funds received: £15,000 – £20,000

Based in: West Yorkshire

Website: www.thecreationstation.co.uk

Facebook: @thecreationstation