Fresh apples add an element of the unexpected to the traditional front door outdoor wreath.
Photo Credit : Kate Hathaway Weeks
When you think of a classic New England Christmas what comes to mind? For me, it’s the Norman Rockwell-inspired images of candlelit windows and generous wreaths with red ribbons on clapboard houses.
Wanting to combine the nostalgic with the unexpected, we asked Boston-based florist Table & Tulip for a pair of classic holiday wreath ideas, both indoor and outdoor, plus advice for ways to keep them looking their best all season long.
APPLE-INSPIRED OUTDOOR HOLIDAY WREATH
Fresh apples add an element of the unexpected to the traditional front door outdoor wreath. Photo Credit : Kate Hathaway WeeksExpert Tip: Allow the great outdoors to serve as natural refrigeration for fresh elements in outdoor wreaths. Photo Credit : Alyssa Wood for Isa Images
Large, colorful apples from the grocery store add an element of the unexpected to the traditional front door wreath. For this one, Table and Tulip’s Andrea Halliday and her team incorporated 6-8 apples into the wreath using wire. The fruit will last a few weeks, just as they would in your own refrigerator. In addition to the pictured apples, we think speckled pears, lady apples, clementines, pomegranates, or larger nuts like chestnuts would add even more interest and an element of surprise.
Table & Tulip Tip: The great thing about living in New England is the natural refrigeration; the cold air keeps apples, pears and other items looking crisp for the season.
Suggested Materials: Florist wire. If you don’t have floral wire available, use twist ties or pipe cleaners.
BOXWOOD INDOOR HOLIDAY WREATH
This fresh boxwood indoor wreath was hung using 3M adhesive hooks for minimal mess and clean up. Photo Credit : Alyssa Wood for Isa ImagesExpert Tip: Keep the fireplace use to a minimum to prevent the wreath from drying out. Photo Credit : Alyssa Wood for Isa Images
Those seeking holiday wreath ideas on Pinterest seem to share my love for interior wreaths hung on windows, doors and mirrors. This one, made of boxwood, was hung on an estate sale mirror using 3M adhesive hooks for minimal mess and clean up.
Table & Tulip Tip: For extra longevity, keep the fireplace use to a minimum while the wreath is displayed to prevent drying out. Soak the cut boxwood in a large bucket to rehydrate the stems before designing.
Suggested Materials: German boxwood is a great green for indoors because it stays looking fresh and doesn’t dehydrate and shed as others (such as fir, arborvitae and pine) do. It can also be manicured into a classic holiday design, which can be customized to any style home. Suggested boxwood varieties include green velvet and winter gem.
ADD POPS OF COLOR
A simple row of crabapples on the mantel adds a lovely pop of color. Photo Credit : Alyssa Wood for Isa Images
Small pinecones, pops of red like cranberries or crabapples add color to the base of glass hurricanes or decoration to the top of a mantelpiece.
Table & Tulip Tip: Massing out novelty fruits and vegetables, such as lady apples, clementines and pomegranates, add a pop of color to a forgotten corner (and are a great alternative to candy for the little one if they need a passing snack!) Pops of color work great when they are complimentary or contrasting to your everyday decor. Place those vibrant red apples by your blue China collection, or display the soft tones of walnuts, pecans and chestnuts in a favored bowl for a more neutral but still seasonal touch. These displays also encourage healthy snacking during a season of sweets and treats!
Suggested Materials: Sculptural or textured unexpected fresh items such as red grapes, pears, cherries, apples, pomegranates, leches or anything else you’re inspired by.
Have a good tip? Share your holiday wreath and decorating ideas with us!
