Making Your Home Cheerier: A Guide to Choosing Dried Flower Wreaths

Dried flower wreaths aren't just for Christmas; they can bring cheer and warmth to your home all year round. They bring an organic, rustic charm and, best of all, require no maintenance. This guide will help you understand how to choose the best dried flower wreath to suit your needs.

A Flurry of Flowers: Understanding the Composition

Different types of flowers can significantly impact the wreath's appearance and the vibe it gives off. Here are a few examples:

• Roses: Symbolising love, roses are a popular choice. Dried roses retain their colour and shape reasonably well.
• Lavender: Dried lavender provides a lovely scent and a beautiful purple hue.
• Hydrangeas: Hydrangeas dry nicely and provide a full, lush look to wreaths.
• Eucalyptus: Not strictly a flower, but a popular choice nonetheless. Eucalyptus leaves dry beautifully, and their silvery-green hue is versatile.

A Kaleidoscope of Colours: Wreath Colour Considerations

The colour of your wreath should not only match your decor but also reflect the mood you want to create:

• Warm Tones: Reds, oranges, and yellows create a cosy and welcoming feel. Ideal for autumn or to brighten up a dark space.
• Cool Tones: Blues, purples, and whites are calming. These tones can create a serene, peaceful environment.
• Neutral Tones: Browns, beiges, and creams are versatile and pair well with most decor styles.

Making a Statement: Size and Shape

Dried flower wreaths come in various sizes and shapes:

• Size: The size of the wreath will depend on where you intend to hang it. Large wreaths can act as a focal point, while smaller ones can add a subtle touch of nature.
• Shape: Most wreaths are circular, symbolising eternity. However, you can also find square, heart-shaped, or even asymmetrical wreaths.

Location, Location, Location: Where to Hang Your Wreath

A wreath can go virtually anywhere in your home:

• Front Door: The traditional spot for a wreath. It welcomes guests and sets the tone for your home.
• Over a Fireplace: A large wreath can be the perfect centerpiece for your mantelpiece.
• On a Window: A wreath in a window can look charming from both inside and outside the house.
• In a Hallway: A wreath can break up an expanse of wall and add interest to a hallway.

Telling a Story: Themed Wreaths

A wreath can reflect your personality, commemorate an event, or tie into the rest of your decor:

• Seasonal: Wreaths with autumn leaves, winter berries, or spring blossoms can help to mark the changing seasons.
• Holiday: Celebrate special days with wreaths adorned with relevant elements. Think hearts for Valentine’s Day, or bunnies for Easter.
• Rustic: Dried wheat, burlap, and twine can create a rural feel.
• Coastal: Sea lavender, starfish, and shells can give a beachy vibe.

A Matter of Material: Choosing the Base

A wreath's base contributes significantly to its overall look:

• Grapevine: Gives a natural, rustic look.
• Straw: A light, versatile base that's easy to pin or glue flowers onto.
• Foam: Can be shaped into a variety of forms and is easy to work with.
• Wire: Provides a minimalist, modern appearance.

Planning for Longevity: Preserving Your Wreath

Dried flower wreaths can last for years if properly taken care of:

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Sun can cause flowers to fade. Consider this when deciding where to hang your wreath.
• Keep it Dry: While dried flowers can handle some moisture, too much can cause them to mould or fall apart.

Wreath Vs. Wreath: The Benefits of a Dried Flower Wreath Over Fresh

Dried flower wreaths have several advantages:

• Longevity: Dried flower wreaths can last for years, whereas fresh ones may only last a few days.
• Maintenance: They require no watering or particular care beyond occasional dusting.
• Availability: Dried flowers aren't subject to seasonality, so your favourite blooms are always available.