Spotlight Area

"UsingGreenery In Fresh NewWays"

Featured in the November/December, 2003 Newsletter

Since the days of the Roman Empire, greenery has played a starring role in wintertime decor. Today, however, greenery can (and should) be a lot more interesting than a few boughs on the mantle.

Here's an idea. Welcome visitors to your front porch with urns or pots topped with fresh or artificial wreaths. Top the wreath with a giant gazing globe or a miniature tree decorated with tiny lights.

The more traditional evergreen wreath on the door and a garland around the doorway completes the look.

Even your birdbath can contribute to the festive spirit. Anchor fresh or artificial greens in florist's foam arranged around the center of the birdbath. Place a 12-inch silver gazing globe on top of the greens and surround it with smaller globes or a variety of glass ornaments. Include a few pine cones, or even ribbon, if you wish.

For the mantel or a table, fill clay pots with a variety of greenery tucked into florist's foam. Then set a candle or gazing ball on top. A cluster of pots, in various sizes, adds visual interest. Spray paint the pots any color to match your holiday decor.

Wreaths are not just for hanging. Use one as a base for a table arrangement. Lay it down on the table and add a candle, holiday plant, or special collectible in the center as a focal point.

There are many different kinds of greenery, and using an assortment can add variety and visual interest around your home. Whether you're using real or artificial greenery, mix white pine, Douglas fir, and Port Orford cedar.

One of the joys of using real greenery, of course, is the fresh smell.

Since the smell gradually vanishes, be sure to time your greenery to your holiday calendar. Early in the season, decorate with artificial greenery and then add the freshest possible greenery as your party or special event approaches.

With a few twists, it's easy to take this most ancient of customs and bring it to life in fresh new ways.