Design in Depth: Holiday Styling With Wreaths

By Karin Lidbeck Brent

The wreath, a symbol of growth and everlasting life, has been used as a decoration for hundreds of years.  Kicking off the festive season begins for me right after Thanksgiving, when I decorate my front door.

This season’s inspiration came from my collections of natural finds from hikes around the Cape and an abundance of pine cones all over my property. A dusting of white spray paint gave the wreath a faux flocked wintry feeling.

Photo by Karin Lidbeck Brent

Traditionally, holiday wreaths hung on the door are made with greenery, but today’s welcoming entrance is imagined with just about every conceivable material. My friend, and fellow stylist, Joanne Palmisano, author of Salvage Secrets, was completely thinking outside of the box when she created this fabulous decoration as her front door greeting.

You can go to her website to learn how to make this yourself.

Loving the contrast of the textured white burlap against a rustic door. I created this twist for hanging greenery on the door using a handmade stocking. A template of cardboard inside keeps it stiff and flat against the door.  The added monogram of burlap is easy to make with twine!

Photo by Michael Partenio

For the traditionalist in you, you might take inspiration from my fellow field editor, Donna Tally, stylist and lifestyle expert. She has an incredible eye for making everything beautiful!

This Evergreen and winter berry wreath is a classic she created for Better Homes and Gardens.

Photo by Michael Partenio

Since many of us don’t have the time or desire time to craft our own, there are so many places to go for wreaths. Williams Sonoma crafts gorgeous live green wreaths that can be delivered in two days. This natural dried bay leaf version is lovely for its simplicity, aroma, and the added bonus: it’s excellent to cook with!

Photo courtesy of Williams Sonoma

Grandinrod is another fantastic online destination for ordering artificial wreaths with a real look and feel of the natural kind.

Photo courtesy of Grandinroad

Hanging a wreath may be the easiest and fastest way to add some holiday cheer.

A decorated door is the perfect welcome on a cold winter’s day. So, as winter takes us back indoors, consider a wreath! It’s a sure thing for adding a feeling of warmth and excitement for the coming season.

Photo by Michael Partenio