4. Three rings
Just as wreaths of laurel were used to crown victors in the first Olympic games, this trio of evergreens, too, is worthy of a place of honour. "It's very light," says Amber, "almost too pretty to hang outdoors." For other options, let its scent drift into a guest room, or use a smaller version to freshen up your powder room. How to: Buy a ready-made mixed pine, balsam and cedar wreath, or create your own by layering freshly picked six- to 10-inch branches onto a wire ring frame, securing them at the stem with twine or wire. Work in seeded eucalyptus bunches, with their white buds and waxy blue-green leaves, for a finishing touch.
5. Nuts and bolts
wreathNuts and cinnamon sticks, standard holiday fare, work nicely here in lieu of pine cones and the requisite bow. Who wouldn't want to be greeted by this warm country arrangement? "B.C. cedar smells and dries wonderfully, as does cinnamon," notes Amber, and this wreath's natural appeal lends itself to almost any room or door. How to: Use a glue gun or craft glue to attach handfuls of mixed walnuts, almonds, filberts and chestnuts directly onto a ready-made cedar wreath. Tie a cluster of cinnamon sticks to the top with natural raffia.
Amber Tiede, Floral Designer & Stylist, (705) 434-9933.
Welcoming wreaths vary from coast to coast. Here are some local favourites:
West Coast
B.C. cedar is fragrant and dries well. Holly also grows best in the West – its glossy green leaves and ripe red berries are a festive classic.
Prairies
Pick Prairie grasses, golden wheat, flowering flax and canola in the summer, and dry to weave into unique wreaths for any season.
Ontario and Quebec
The long, flexible, feathery needles and memorable fragrance of white pine make it one of the most popular evergreens. It's found in abundance across Ontario and Quebec.
East Coast
Balsam holds its dark-green, flat needles well and although it grows as far west as Alberta, it thrives on the East Coast.
Read more in Decorating and Seasonal Decorating
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