The Eternal Wreath

I love to celebrate the festive season by making a traditional wreath that is simply adorned with a classic mix of evergreen foliage. After the recent gale force winds, I found an abundance of windblown tree branches and fir cones which I excitedly gathered from the forest floor. My foraged piles of evergreen were then attached to a willow hoop, in small bundles, using twine. This creates a biodegradable wreath that is perfect for both Christmas and solstice celebration, or as a remembrance tribute.

For me, the wonderful variety of evergreen textures, colours and fresh citrus smells truly embraces this time of year and for many ancient cultures, such as the festival of Saturnalia in ancient Rome, the circular wreath of evergreens was seen as a symbol of the continuation of life and vitality during the dark winter months. I like this variation which included skimma (S. japonica rubella) and ivy berries.

This month, I was kindly offered some variegated holly which also had me thinking about the traditions of using evergreen holly. The druids believed that the sun would never forsake the holly tree and would bring its greenery into their homes to lift their spirits during mid-winter festivities. I also love the tale of the Green Man of the summer (Oak King) who turns into the Holly King at the Winter Solstice.  

In homage, I always like to celebrate the season with the custom of holly and evergreens hung on a door, as a gesture of goodwill and blessing to all those who visit. So, this year I decided to make a holly wreath by using a metal wreath ring with a hay base tied on with twine. I did need to use binding wire to secure the holly in small bunches. I also decided to include red skimmia which looks great, instead of ‘she’ holly with red berries which doesn’t deprive the wild birds of any winter food. You might want to wear gloves to protect your fingers from a lot of prickles! I’m already thinking about next year’s design – maybe a kissing ball with mistletoe!

Happy festive greetings from Wild Heritage