The Hanging of the Greens

Since mid-winter festivals in ancient Roman times, wreaths have been popular decorations on doors and tabletops. Though wreaths can be found in modern homes all year round, they’re especially popular at Christmas time, evoking a classic holiday symbol. In fact, the evergreen boughs most wreaths are made of symbolize immortality and the strength of life, while their round shape is indicative of the eternal nature of God’s love, especially meaningful at this time of year.

To explore the endless possibilities inherent in the wreath’s basic form, we asked three Arkansas florists to create wreaths in a variety of styles. When you begin selecting a wreath, it’s important to decide where you’ll display it. Fresh botanicals work best for exterior display, although silk wreaths can weather the elements in protected outdoor areas. For indoors, silks are often a better choice if you want to display the wreath for an extended period of time, as heat will dry out fresh cuttings, which can’t be continuously watered like your fresh tree. Beyond greenery, also consider including elements like fruit and berries, as in the round wreath designed by Cabbage Rose in Little Rock.

Once you’ve decided on your materials, it’s time to think about style, shape and colors. Whether your holiday décor is strictly traditional or more modern and eclectic, the classic circular wreath isn’t the only option. Swags are also a popular choice for display on doors, like the one created by Ye Olde Daisy Shoppe in Conway. For a contemporary style, look beyond reds and greens. Fairy Tale Florals in North Little Rock designed a wreath in shades of blue and chocolate brown, incorporating unexpected elements like peacock feathers.

Rather than creating a traditional circular wreath, Ye Olde Daisy Shoppe in Conway made a vertical swag of pine boughs decorated with silk trimmings in brighter shades of holiday green. Hydrangeas, peonies, silver dollar eucalyptus and amaranthus—along with a gold and green bow—in lime and celadon contribute a lighthearted feel.

Gilded pinecones and magnolia leaves provide the base of this wreath, from Cabbage Rose in Little Rock. For texture and color, red and purple berries are layered on top, and the wreath is crowned with a brocade bow.