Christmas is now just around the corner, so everyone is looking for things to do to celebrate the period. If that is a bracket that you find yourself in, you might well be wondering what you can do that can make the holidays that little bit more personal. After all, everyone will be buying the same lights, trees and decorations as each other if they choose to head to the big shops and supermarkets to do so. One of the things that you can do that will give your home a really Christmassy feel is make your own wreath, with this wreath-making workshop ideal for that.
Why Make a Wreath?
If you think of a wreath, you will no doubt think of the circular decorations covered in greenery and flowers. Although that is very much what they have evolved into, it isn’t what they were originally. Instead, both the Etruscans and the Romans made pieces of jewellery as well as adornments that were put onto someone’s head as an ornament of sorts. They could be made from the likes of precious metals, whilst those with less money would use the likes of olive leaves and vines for the purpose of making their own version of the headwear in question.
The Romans went a step further, creating the laurel wreath. Over time, wreaths evolved into items for decoration, with the Ancient Greeks using them to promote a healthy harvest, using the likes of harvested wheat to make them. It was in the 16th century that the first instance of a ‘modern’ wreath can be found, beginning as Advent wreaths to prepare for Christmas. A Lutheran priest called Johan Hinrich was the first to create such a wreath in his native Germany. They were used as centrepieces on tables, with candles to be lit on the countdown to Christmas Day.
Nowadays, you can find wreaths being used for all sorts of reasons. Some people like to make their wreath featuring black, purple and orange and put it up for Halloween, for example, whilst others opt for ones in Easter. You can even get wreaths celebrating the likes of summer, or used at a funeral. For most people, though, it is the Christmas period that sees a wreath placed on their front door. This is different from an Advent wreath, which is specific to Christianity and sees evergreens put in a circle to represent everlasting life. Christmas wreaths are simply decorative and designed to offer cheer for the holiday period.
A Festive Workshop
If you like the idea of adding a Christmas wreath to your front door, the workshop that is taking place in the Rosamund Community Garden may well be just what you’re looking for. It gives you the opportunity to get into the holiday spirit, all whilst creating a personalised wreath that is ideal for your home. You don’t need to worry too much about taking stuff along either, with the willow base and fresh foliage that will be used to create the wreath supplied for you. Of course, if you want to add your own decorations to it or some extra foliage, you will need to ensure you have that on hand.
If you are a gardener who has their own secateurs, then you should take them along, given the fact that they will come in handy over the course of the workshop. The proceedings are led by Helen and Clare, who are volunteers at the garden and will show you how to make your wreath look ideal for the Christmas period. In order to add to the festive feeling of the event, you will be provided with a tea or a coffee to drink, as well as a sweet treat. Don’t be too surprised if this is a mince pie, given the time of year that it is, perhaps even one that has been homemade by someone involved!
Things to Think About
In the past, children have really enjoyed getting involved and making their own wreath. If you have a young person in your life that you’d like to bring with you, they are welcome provided they are accompanied by an adult. Where the workshop takes place will depend entirely on what the weather is up to. If it is dry, it will be outside in the garden itself, with a fire pit being used in order to provide some warmth. If, on the other hand, the weather turns and it starts to rain, the workshop will move indoors into the hub so as to ensure that it is a more memorable experience for all.
Held at Longdown Road, Guildford, Surrey GU4 8PP near to Pewley Down, the session will see all profits go directly to the Rosamund Community Garden. The cost of attending is £30, whilst Eventbrite, the company you will buy your tickets from, charges their own fee. If you are particularly keen to take part, then you will need to ensure that you look at the site soon, given the fact that there are only 12 spaces available. If you’re driving, you can park on Longdown Road and then walk down the footpath at the first bend on the left, with the garden then set back to your right.
If, on the other hand, you’re looking to walk, you can cross Pewley Down before continuing along the ridge and through the shaded tunnel at Burgess Way, entering through the final farm gate on your left. Should you need to cancel for some reason, you will be given a refund if you’re able to do so with more than 24 hours’ notice. Anything within the 24 hours of the event taking place will receive no refund. If you want a child to be involved, then it will cost £20, which is payable in cash on the day. It is helpful to the organisers for you to book your place and then email them about any children.