insideKENT Magazine Issue 103 - November 2020 | Page 126

HOME + GARDEN
MAKE YOUR FRONT DOOR MERRY :

CHRISTMAS WREATHS BY

Jo Wilkinson Floristry

CHRISTMAS ! THE BUSIEST 6 WEEKS OF A FLORIST ' S YEAR , FILLED WITH MORE SPARKLE , PINE AND DRIED FRUIT THAN YOU CAN SHAKE A CINNAMON STICK AT . AND MOVING TO THE TOP OF EVERYONE ’ S CHRISTMAS FLORAL DECOR WISHLIST IS A BESPOKE , HANDMADE WREATH .
Alongside our floristry mainstays of Norman Spruce Christmas trees , hanging baskets and hand tied bouquets , customers are increasingly searching for the perfect fireplace and staircase garlands , bespoke centre pieces and of course a beautiful door wreath .
Whilst the intricacies of creating garlands and handtied gifts require floristry knowhow , the wonder of the wreath is that you can either ask your florist to design and make it for you - a great way of achieving wreath perfection especially for those lacking in either time or creative flair ; or have a go yourself either via a wreath-making class or by following some simple instructions .
Wreath Trends
Over the last few years the Christmas vibe has moved through so many different styles , that almost everything is on the cards for getting in the spirit and dressing your home ready for the big day .
The classic traditional dried oranges , cinnamon sticks , baubles and red velvet bows is probably our least popular design , but one that is featured year in year out .
Over the last two years eucalyptus has taken over the Christmas look . It ' s in everything . And how can you blame anyone for wanting it - it looks fab and smells incredible . It creates a beautiful winter wonderland look teamed up with dried limes , white berries , silver stags and kaaps brunia .
Sage green with hints of shiny emerald and gold is a new favourite . Alongside the new popular choice to go bold - embracing the richness of deep purples , golds and red with a hint of cerise .
Jo Wilkinson Floristry Wreaths
As well as my own collection , I ' m often asked to create bespoke designs for large brands , unique front door colours , child inspired , light up , personalised , and interactive wreaths .
My wreaths come in three sizes : 50cm , 100cm and 150cm . All are available in either fresh and artificial styles . The fresh wreaths , made using only the best quality Norman Spruce pine , bought in directly from the Dutch market , will last around a month with some TLC . The artificial will stand the test of time but will need some zhushing up each year . This is a service we offer , sprucing up your Christmas decor each year making sure it ' s looking its best and any damage repaired . We also offer a dressing service , taking the stress out of unboxing it all and getting it all set up , we come into your home and work our magic , delivering all the Christmas feels in time for the festive season .
Make Your Own Tips
Using a wire ring , damp moss is fixed and attached creating the ideal base to start adding your pine . Attach moss backing plastic so that the dampness isn ' t touching your front door . This can be attached using binding wire or floristry pins .
When adding your pine , you want to have freshly cut ends entering the damp moss to ensure they ' re taking in moisture . Using a binding wire you will attach the pine in a circular formation creating a neat and tidy pattern . This will form your base for adding in other foliage and your chosen decorations .
I always suggest using odd numbers for decorating your wreath . Whatever numbers you choose , definitely steer away from fours and this will make your circular wreath look boxy . Threes and fives are my favourite .
Choose your colour pallet and your decorations . Before you start attaching , make your bow and put this onto the wreath . This gives you your anchor point for the rest of your decorative touches . Remember to leave a loop at the back so you can attach your wreath to your front door . Failing that you can use a wreath hanger that sits over the top of your door . They ' re available everywhere from October onwards .
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