The Traditional Christmas Wreath

A Christmas wreath is a ring of flowers, leaves and sometimes fruit, used as an ornamental decoration on doors, walls and tables over the festive period. Wreaths are usually made from evergreens, and these symbolise the strength of life by surviving through the harshest of winters.

Common evergreens used in the Xmas wreath include the Bay laurel (often known as laurel wreaths), pine, holly and yew. The yew symbolises immortality and cedar is sometimes used, symbolising strength and healing. The Greek god Apollo was often linked with wreaths and he was the god of life and health – indeed, the circular shape of the wreath may be seen to represent immortailty and eternity.

Wreath with Gold Fruit Decoration

The traditonal Christmas wreath is typically made from evergreen tree twigs, pine cones and red ribbon. Some people hang wreaths for their purely decorative function, but Christian families and churches hang advent wreaths from the door in preparation for Christmas. You can also buy an artificial christmas wreath, which can be used for many years, although we prefer real christmas wreaths.

The hanging of the advent wreath became a German Christmas tradition at the beginning of the 20th cenutry and soon spread to other parts of the world. The wreath features four candles and during the first week of advent, the first candle is lit. A further candle is lit each week until all four candles are lit by the week before Christmas. This accumulation of light marks the anticipation of the birth of Christ (seen as the ‘light of the world’ by the Christian faith) and is said to symbolise his never-ending love, and the circular wreath, having no beginning and no end, represents God’s eternity.

Wreaths remain popular throughout the Christmas season, and today there is a wide selection to choose from, from the traditional to the ultra- contemporary. No-one can deny the beauty of a fresh Christmas wreath, with its lovely array of colour and scent. These look lovely hanging on the door, and really evoke the spirit of Christmas.

Example of a Balsam Christmas Wreath

If you want a fresh Christmas wreath but want to hang on to your money, why not try making your own? All you need is a circular metal frame and oasis, (available from your local florist) and a selection of suitable plants. These can often be found in your garden, but if not, florists usually stock a good selection of festive plants over the Christmas period. Use 2 or 3 types of holly or ivy, berries, evergreen leaves, even roses or chrysanthemums. Bear in mind that flowers may not last as long as other materials on the wreath, but if you have taken them from your garden, you can simply replace when required.

The beauty of making your own Christmas wreath is that you can design it with your own decorative tastes in mind and you can be sure that there will not be another one like it!