Wreathing Season…
After All the Wreathing is Done…
As another festive season of wreath-making comes to a close, I’m reflecting on the beauty, history, and joy these creations bring. Wreaths are more than just decorations—they’re steeped in tradition, creativity, and connection.
The History of Wreaths
The art of wreath-making spans centuries, and its origins lie in ancient traditions, which symbolise eternity and the cycle of life through its circular shape. Early pagan cultures used evergreen wreaths during winter solstice celebrations to signify hope and the promise of spring. With the advent of Christianity, the wreath became a symbol of faith, with evergreen foliage representing eternal life and resilience. In the 16th century, Germans popularised the advent wreath and adorned wreaths with candles to mark the countdown to Christmas.
Crafting wreaths also originates from more humble beginnings and is rooted in frugality. Unlike today, nothing went to waste in years past—branches trimmed from Christmas trees were twisted and woven into wreaths. There is something deeply satisfying about gathering natural, seasonal materials and creating something beautiful. Whether done with friends to the sound of Christmas music or quietly alone in a moment of mindfulness, making a wreath is joyful.
Today, a Christmas wreath is cherished; placed on a front door is a welcoming sight, blending tradition and beauty and inviting guests into our homes during Christmastime.
Beautiful Materials
Starting with the base, a circular shape can be created from various materials. Willow or vine are commonly twisted into shape, while moss-covered wireframes also offer a sturdy foundation.
This year, I foraged and sourced a stunning array of seasonal materials to create my wreaths and guide others in making their own.
Thank you to James at @TheRealChristmasTreeFarm in Ashridge, who grows incredible and often enormous Nordmann and Douglas Fir trees. His generosity in gifting branches and broken trees in exchange for donations to the Hospice of St Francis is genuinely inspiring.
I also sourced eucalyptus, pittosporum, twisted willow, bay, and silver ragwort from Zoe at Rymans Flower Farm in Buckinghamshire and Nicky at Little Ware Foliage in Kent. From Hill Farm, where I grow flowers in Ashridge, I foraged ivy berries, catkins, and conifers alongside teasels, poppy heads, and cones I’d collected throughout the year.
This season, I used moss from a sustainably managed forest in Wales. It was so wonderful to work with you that I’ve already placed my order for next year!
The Art of Wreath-Making
Each wreath takes time and care to create. Your heart goes into shaping something beautiful. I build layer upon layer of carefully gathered foliage, binding the materials to form a design full of depth and texture. More delicate stems and flowers are added directly into the moss, which acts as a water source to keep everything fresh.
The largest wreaths can take over two hours to complete. Once the greenery is in place, I decorate it with natural elements like cones, seed pods, berries, and bracken. The finishing touch is always a velvet, silk, or hessian ribbon to add a sense of luxury. Tiny brass bells can also be added to create a delightful jingle when guests arrive at the door. Avoid hanging or creating your wreath too soon—you’ll want it to look stunning until Christmas Day.
Cook & Butler Collaboration
This year’s collaboration with @Cook&Butler has been incredibly popular. Each wreath's bespoke nature meant availability was limited, and daily wreath deliveries sold out quickly. Although stormy weather prevented the wreaths from being displayed outside the store, they found a charming new home on old ladders and vintage pharmacy shelves surrounded by Christmas gifts and Italian treats.
Unique Workshops and Special People
As Sarah Statham (@simplybyarrangement) wrote in her beautiful blog recently, the magic ingredient for wreath-making is where you make it —and I couldn’t agree more.
Thank you to Helena, The Little Heath Tea Room, and Charlotte @Portobello Studio for inviting me to lead their wreath-making classes this year. Each gathering was special in its own way:
- A group of Nordic walkers who foraged materials from their gardens and walks crafted wild and abundant wreaths before sharing a hearty lunch.
- Mothers and daughters came together to laugh, chat, and sing along to Christmas tunes, creating not just wreaths but cherished memories.
- In a private home, friends and family toasted the season with mulled wine, shared their Christmas plans, and created large, luxurious wreaths in a festive atmosphere.
Care Cards
Every wreath I make comes with a vintage-style notecard, wishing you a Merry Christmas and thanking you for supporting my small, homegrown business. The cards include instructions on caring for your wreath, helping it stay fresh beyond Christmas Day.
Wrapping Up the Season
As I prepare my home for Christmas, my hands—finally recovering with the help of plenty of hand cream—remind me of the love and labour that went into this wreathing season.
Thank you to everyone who commissioned or purchased a wreath or garland or joined a workshop this year. Your support means the world. Look out for workshop dates to book a space next year, or place a wreath order early to avoid disappointment.
I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year. Here’s to another season of beauty, creativity, and festive cheer!
