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With the big day fast approaching, many of us are busy decking the halls and adding that festive touch to our homes with trees wrapped in twinkling lights, the waft of gingerbread-scented candles, gorgeous garlands draped over fireplaces and not forgetting the festive favourite, the Christmas wreath.
These simple yet festive rings of evergreen, adorned with clusters of pinecones, red berries, bright bows, and shimmering ornaments, certainly light up any front door giving it that magically festive kerb appeal.
From traditional wreaths to the more modern versions and even hand-crafted ones, which are very popular today, they have certainly come a long way from their very modest beginnings.
Did you know that Christmas wreaths date back to the 16th century with the tradition starting in Germany? They were originally Christmas tree ornaments made from the tops and sides of trees that were trimmed to fit perfectly in people’s homes. The trimmed leftovers were weaved into circular ornaments and hung on the tree. Later these ‘wheels’ were moved to the front door and became known as ‘welcome rings’.
Evergreen foliage such as fir, pine, holly, ivy and mistletoe have always been used as they stay vibrant throughout the winter with their bright greens and jewelled berries. The wreath’s name derives from the word ‘writhen’ meaning to twist, so the process of twisting these elements together.
A wreath’s circular shape represents eternity – no beginning or end – and wreaths were gifted to friends and family at Christmas and New Year to wish them infinite love and good health for the year ahead.
Christmas trees and wreaths were introduced to the UK in the 1800s by ‘good Queen Charlotte’, the German wife of George III and not Prince Albert as popularly believed. It wasn’t until much later, in 1860, that they became popular with the middle classes.
The wreath on the front door became a symbol of status. The bigger and more ornately decorated with a wealth of bows, winter berries and flowers, the more important and influential you were.
Christmas wreaths are still a festive favourite with many styles, shapes and sizes available to suit every family’s personality. Making your own wreath is a growing trend where families can start a new tradition and craft a perfect personalised festive wreath together.
From its rich history to its timeless design this is one traditional statement piece that still declares Christmas is here!
Merry Christmas.
