Wreaths, Garlands & Stems
5The origins of the Christmas wreath tradition
As the festive season approaches, it's traditional to install a Christmas wreath in the home. In addition to its many meanings, it's a warm and stylish way to decorate your home. But where does this tradition come from? What style of wreath to choose and where to place it? Here's what you need to know before you start decorating.
The custom of the decorated wreath actually dates back to the time when the Romans, along with the Germanic and Scandinavian peoples, celebrated the solstice. The Romans liked to decorate their homes, and especially their front doors, with wreaths of green foliage, symbolizing the hope of the coming season. Northerners, on the other hand, wove foliage or branches in the shape of a wheel, symbolizing the renewal of nature and its cycles, defined by the four seasons. The blending of these two customs gave rise to the famous wreath we know today.
Finally, it wasn't until the sixteenth century that Christians adopted this pagan tradition for the festive season. Believers placed a decorated wreath in the middle of the table with four candles. The candles represented the Sundays preceding Christ's birth.
From traditional wreaths to revisited wreaths
Whatever its meaning, putting up a Christmas wreath in your home sets the mood for festivity and conviviality.
Traditionally, Christmas wreaths are made from fir branches and baubles. Today, you can also choose garlands with stars instead of baubles: a magical Christmas guaranteed!
And if you're looking for decorative ideas, you'll easily find DIY bare wreath garlands on our site. There's nothing to stop you hanging pine cones, strings of lights or pretty flowers.
Nowadays, with a little imagination, it's possible to completely revisit the Christmas wreath. While retaining its original form, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to decoration. Why not decorate your home with wooden wreaths? And wouldn't it be fantastic to find dried fruit in your wreath? Looking for originality? Opt for the lovely Christmas wreaths made from artificial plants, such as eucalyptus.
Where to place your Christmas wreath?
Decorated with branches, red bows or berries, the wreath is an essential part of the Christmas magic. Most of the time, it's placed on the front door. But you don't have to! You can easily hang your decoration from a window, for example. Just keep the wreath out of the weather.
Another popular idea is the Christmas wreath as a centerpiece. Accompanied by a few candles, the result is immediately pleasing to the eye and convivial. To be on the safe side, candles are best placed in glass containers.
Finally, complete the circle by placing your wreath in the same room as your tree.