Christmas wreaths are a quintessential part of festive decorations which adorn doors, windows and mantels with their vibrant greenery and decorative elements.
They essentially bring a touch of nature indoors and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for the festivities.
Here, the Christmas.co.uk team takes a closer look at Christmas wreaths, where they came from and why we do enjoy displaying them every year?
History of Christmas wreaths
The tradition of Christmas wreaths dates to ancient times.
In ancient Greece and Rome, wreaths made from laurel leaves and evergreen foliage symbolised victory, honour and achievement.
During the winter solstice, pagan cultures used evergreen wreaths to celebrate the return of light and the promise of spring.
With the spread of Christianity, these customs were incorporated into Christmas traditions, with the circular shape of the wreath representing eternity and the evergreen foliage symbolising eternal life through Jesus Christ.
Over time, the Christmas wreath evolved into a popular festive decoration, often enhanced with ornaments, ribbons, and other festive embellishments.
Why consider Christmas wreaths?
Christmas wreaths are more than just decorative items; they carry deep symbolism and cultural significance.
They represent hope, unity and the eternal cycle of life.
Beyond their symbolic meaning, wreaths add a festive touch to any space, making homes feel more inviting and cheerful during the Christmas season.
- First impressions: A beautifully crafted wreath can make a lasting impression on visitors, welcoming them into your home with festive cheer
- Seasonal ambience: Wreaths add a touch of seasonal charm to your front door, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere
- Versatility: They can be used indoors as well, adorning walls, fireplaces or table centrepieces
- Personalisation: You can customise your wreath to reflect your personal style, whether it’s classic, modern or whimsical.
What are Christmas wreaths made from?
Christmas wreaths can be made from a variety of materials:
- Evergreen boughs: Traditional wreaths are often made from pine, fir or spruce branches
- Dried wreaths: Christmas wreaths made from dried materials popular, but they can become fragile if not stored correctly for future use
- Artificial materials: Synthetic wreaths offer durability and can be reused year after year
- Decorative elements: Wreaths can be adorned with ribbons, berries, pinecones, ornaments, and even lights
- Unique materials: Some wreaths incorporate dried flowers, citrus slices, cinnamon sticks, or even recycled items for a unique twist.
Some wreaths come with wire frames so they can be decorated with ribbons, ornaments or other decorative elements.
How are Christmas wreaths used?
Christmas wreaths are versatile and can be used in various ways:
- Door decorations: The most common use, wreaths on front doors welcome guests and spread festive cheer
- Indoor decor: Wreaths can be hung on walls, windows, or above fireplaces to enhance indoor festive decorations
- Table centrepieces: Smaller wreaths can be used as centrepieces, often with candles placed in the middle.
Some people also use a wreath as a gift topper to add a festive touch to their gifts by attaching a small wreath to the top.
How expensive are Christmas wreaths?
The cost of Christmas wreaths can vary widely depending on the materials and size:
- Fresh wreaths: Prices typically range from £15 to £50
- Artificial wreaths: These can cost anywhere from £10 to £100, depending on the complexity and quality
- Custom or speciality wreaths: Handmade or uniquely designed wreaths can be more expensive, often costing more than £100.
How to care for fresh and dried wreaths
To keep your Christmas wreath looking fresh throughout the season, follow these tips:
- Keep it hydrated: You should mist fresh wreaths with water every few days to maintain moisture
- Store properly: For artificial wreaths, store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their shape and appearance.
Also, artificial wreaths should be dusted periodically with a soft cloth or feather duster.
Where to buy Christmas Wreaths
Here are some retailers where you can find a variety of wreaths:
Wreaths, both fresh and dried, are available from garden centres and other online retailers.
Also, don’t forget that this is a great opportunity to get creative and make your own wreath.
You can use natural materials like pinecones, berries and twigs – and other materials are available from craft stores like Hobbycraft.
Buy wreaths this year
Christmas wreaths are a timeless and meaningful addition to your festive decorations.
From their rich history and symbolism to their ability to bring warmth and cheer to any space, wreaths are a must-have for the Christmas season.
Whether you opt for a traditional evergreen wreath, a modern artificial design, or a unique DIY creation, there’s a perfect wreath out there for everyone.
By choosing a wreath, you’re not only enhancing your home’s festive spirit but also embracing a tradition that has been cherished for centuries.
