Christmas Wreath and Garland

In the world of floristry, the wreath and the garland are the two most important symbols of a welcoming home. While the Christmas tree sits at the heart of the house, the wreath and garland are what bridge the gap between the wintry outdoors and the warmth of your living room.

As a florist, I see these pieces as the jewelry of the home. A well-crafted wreath on your front door is the first “Merry Christmas” your guests receive before they even step inside. Meanwhile, a fresh garland draped over a staircase or mantelpiece brings that incredible, mossy scent of a winter forest into every breath you take.

The Christmas Wreath: A Circle of Welcome

The circular shape of the wreath has always represented eternity and the turning of the seasons. When I build a wreath, I start with a base of damp moss to keep the foliage drinking, ensuring it stays lush and green throughout the festivities.

• The Traditional Door Wreath: This is usually built on a foundation of Noble Fir or Blue Spruce. I love adding “pops” of life using Holly berries, Skimmia, and Eucalyptus. For a final touch, we tuck in cinnamon sticks and dried orange slices to give it that nostalgic, spicy scent.
• Modern Minimalist Wreaths: For a cleaner look, we are seeing a move toward asymmetrical designs. This might mean a simple gold hoop partially covered in Dried Grasses, White Berries, and a single velvet ribbon. It is sophisticated, light, and looks beautiful against a dark-colored door.
• Inside the Home: Don’t limit wreaths to the front door! A smaller, delicate wreath made of Gypsophila or Heathers looks stunning hanging in a window or placed on a dining table with a tall pillar candle in the centre.

Christmas Garlands: Nature’s Architecture

Garlands are the ultimate way to soften the hard lines of a home. They follow the curves of your banisters and the straight edge of your mantel, making the house feel like it has been overgrown by a magical winter garden.

• Mantelpiece Garlands: Since the fireplace is a focal point, the garland here should be thick and luxurious. I like to mix different textures—using the silver tones of Eucalyptus, the deep green of Ivy, and the sturdy needles of Pine. Tucking in some White Lilies or Red Roses on Christmas Eve can turn a simple green garland into a high-end floral display.
• Staircase Swags: For stairs, movement is key. We drape long strands of greenery and secure them with thick ribbons. If you have children or pets, using a “no-drop” Nordmann Fir base for your garland will save you from constant sweeping.
• The Scented Table Runner: A fresh garland running down the center of your dining table is a wonderful alternative to a traditional centerpiece. It allows plenty of room for platters of food while providing a low, fragrant border for your dinner conversation.

Caring for Your Fresh Greenery

Because wreaths and garlands are “exposed” rather than sitting in a vase of water, they need a little extra attention to stay fresh until the New Year.

1. The Morning Mist: Use a spray bottle to mist your wreath and garland every couple of days. The foliage absorbs moisture through its needles and leaves, and this helps combat the drying effects of central heating.
2. Soak the Base: If your wreath is built on a moss base, you can take it down once a week and lay it in a shallow tray of water for an hour to let the moss rehydrate.
3. Keep it Cool: If you have a garland on a mantelpiece above a working fire, it will dry out much faster. Consider choosing a “dried” or “preserved” garland for this specific spot, or be prepared to replace the most delicate flowers every few days.

Conclusion

Christmas wreaths and garlands are the finishing touches that make a home feel truly festive. They carry the scents and textures of the British countryside into our celebrations, reminding us of the beauty of the natural world even in the depths of winter. Whether you choose a classic berry-filled wreath or a modern, airy garland, these living decorations bring a sense of life and joy to every corner of your home.