Decorating with wreaths: ideas for Christmas and beyond!

A wreath is an assortment of flowers, leaves, fruits, twigs (or any other materials around the place!) constructed to resemble a ring.

We see them as christmas decorations each year but the history behind wreaths dates back thousands of years and much of the symbolism lies with Greek mythology. In the Greco-Roman world, wreaths were used as an adornment to represent a person’s occupation, rank and status.

www.marthastewart.com

The use of the laurel wreath arose from the Greek myth involving Apollo, Zeus’ son and the god of life and light, who fell in love with the nymph Daphne. When he pursued her she fled and asked the river god Peneus to help her, in which Peneus turned her into a laurel tree. From that day forth, Apollo wore a wreath of laurel on his head. This became associated with what Apollo embodied; victory, achievement and status and would later become one of the most commonly used symbols to address achievement throughout Greece and Rome.

www.marthastewart.com

Since then, the meaning and representation has taken on differing views, depending on the culture. In Christianity, wreaths are used during Advent. The first known association with these now modern day wreaths dates back to the Lutherans in Germany in the 16th century. In 1839, Johann Hinrich Wichern used a wreath made from a cart wheel to educate children about the meaning and purpose of Christmas, as well as to help them count its approach. 

Source

The Advent wreath is constructed of evergreens to represent everlasting life brought through Jesus and the circular shape of the wreath represents God, with no beginning and no end.

House to Home UK 

The Advent wreath is now a popular symbol in preparation for the coming of Christ, to mark the beginning of the Christian Church’s year and as décor at Christmas. Wikipedia

Images below from Country Living

Wreaths aren't just for Christmastime, though. 
Why not welcome a new season with a freshly decorated entrance way and front door. 

Homes and Gardens UK

House to Home UK

 Fasten any wreath with a bow and some seasonal symbols and voila, you have a stylish decoration that can change for the seasons!

Martha Stewart

Highlight it in an empty vintage or new picture frame.

Source: creativedecorations.com 

Why not use wreaths to decorate your shelves. Add jewel-toned ornaments, fresh foliage from the garden,  vintage books, crockery or other trinkets for finishing touches.

This wreath from Canadian Living is made with a beautiful white yarn and soft yellow banding.

Williams Sonoma have some gorgeous wreaths to welcome Spring!

I love this Lemon and Bay Leaf Wreath!

Doesn't this handmade Culinary wreath look delicious with those cherry peppers, sage, safflower, bay leaves, red chilies and purple oregano!

House to Home UK have instructions on how to make this yummy culinary wreath here.

Pottery Barn this cute Aviary door wreath hanger to hang your wreath on!

Since it is Autumn Down Under I think I might try to make something like these ones from BHG

Maybe I could make one of these Autumn wreaths from Martha.

I can turn an old book into a gorgeous decoration!

Well, it looks like any time is a nice time to hang a wreath!

Best wishes,

Natasha

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