We show many gorgeous wreaths, but they don’t always start out that way.  Our process includes at least three points of quality control evaluation.  Once a decorator finishes a wreath, the assignment desk checks it for accuracy of description (how well were the order instructions followed) and mechanical security (will those pine cones fall off during delivery.)  The wreath next goes to the delivery area, where it is checked again.  Periodically, the aesthetic police view the wreaths in daylight, to make sure they are up to standards.  Yes, we are a charity, earning money for neighborhood street tree projects, but customers are still paying money for a product and we cannot disappoint.  Here are two shots, “Before” and “After,” of a wreath which was sent back for editing.

Yesterday’s post was all about drama and color impact.  Today we take a look at a (mostly) natural design with a cream, silver and gold bow and plenty of pine cones and greens, with a few gold pearl and gilded cone touches.  We love it.  Customers shouldn’t shy away from “designer’s choice” as an accent – this doesn’t mean we’ll go wild with glitter and paint, unless you ask.  Sometimes, though, as in this example, a bit of shine enhances the total look.

The Vendome Condominium hangs two large fresh wreaths flanking its front door.  The wreaths are mounted high, and are beneath an underhang, so nothing too subtle will be visible.  Our decorator took large scale glittery fruits – apples, pears, and pomegranates – and accented them with gilded elements and a bright green sequined bow.  If you are walking by 160 Commonwealth Avenue, please do take a moment to admire them.

Here is an outdoor wreath anyone would be proud to hang.  The sparkly red and gold striped bow is centrally placed at the top, magnolia, white pine and eucalyptus augment the balsam, red and brushed gold balls balance the bow, and a few painted pine cones, lotus pods, and milkweed pods add interest at the bottom.  This wreath was meant to be hung outdoors, but would do equally well inside.

A former member, Florence Massimo, was known for her dried flower wreaths, intricately assembled from hydrangeas, roses, and any other naturally colored flower we had in the workshop.  The work took hours, since the blossoms are fragile, but each was a masterpiece.  One of our newer decorators is carrying on the tradition of the “Florence Wreath.”  She made the one below for herself, and the textured brocade ribbon keeps the wreath design from being too Christmas – themed.  This will look as pretty on Valentine’s Day as it does now.