There’s something enchanting about London at Christmas time: the sparkle, the spirit, and those stunning wreaths adorning every doorway. Every door bursts with festive colour, each wreath more beautiful than the last. 

Inspired by the city’s festive flair, I joined a wreath-making workshop this year to create my own, and it felt wonderfully, unmistakably London!

Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON guides you from the origins of wreaths to creating your own festive masterpiece, with plenty of inspiration along the way!

Wreaths: a brief history

Christmas wreaths are one of those traditions everyone recognises. You see them on doors, walls, even tables, bringing that instant festive vibe.

But London takes it to another level; wreaths are everywhere! From grand townhouse doors to cosy flats, every street seems to sparkle with them. Honestly, you can’t call yourself a proper Londoner at Christmas without one on your own door!

Curious about the name and meaning of wreaths? Here’s the (short) story!

I learned that the word “wreath” might actually come from an old English word meaning “to twist”, which makes sense, since wreaths are basically twisted into a perfect circle!

From a Christian perspective, the Christmas wreath represents Christ. Its circle, with no beginning or end, stands for eternity, while the evergreens symbolise growth and everlasting life.

Traditionally, wreaths had four candles: three around the outside and one in the middle, lit on Christmas Eve to celebrate Jesus’ arrival.

In the early 19th century, people also placed evergreen wreaths or crosses on graves to honour loved ones. Later, families brought wreaths home to include in their Christmas decorations, keeping the tradition alive.

Today, you don’t have to wait, you can make your own and add a personal touch to your festive décor!

DIY: make your own Christmas wreath!

Everywhere you look in London, doors and facades are decked out with wreaths. Some are simple and charming, others are bold and elaborate.

No matter the style, a wreath is always a festive touch that brightens up any home!

This year, I signed up for a wreath-making workshop with a professional.

A few of us (including me!) had never decorated a wreath before (unsurprisingly, mostly us foreigners) while others clearly knew their stuff, showing up with their own tools and shiny decorative tinsel!

Let me share with you the complete guide to wreath-making 🙂

Step 1: choose your base

Before you start decorating, you need a good foundation. Wreaths begin with a base of evergreens, which give that classic Christmas look and that amazing piney scent we all love.

• Evergreen choice matters: traditional options like pine, fir, or spruce give that classic fresh Christmas scent and fullness. Mix different types for texture and depth.

• Go natural if you can: fresh branches last longer than cut ones if kept cool and misted with water.

• Artificial is okay: if you want something reusable or allergy-friendly, pick high-quality artificial branches. Just remember they won’t have the same scent.

• Shape matters: a sturdy circular base (wire or foam) makes decorating easier and keeps your wreath looking neat.

• Prep your branches: trim to size and remove any weak or brown needles before you start. It makes attaching decorations much easier.

Step 2: decorate your wreath

Now comes the fun part: decorating! Wreaths can be adorned with all sorts of Christmassy goodies: pine cones, holly berries, dried fruits, ribbons, or anything else that catches your eye. Don’t be afraid to mix textures and colours: the more personal, the more festive!

• Balance is key: spread decorations evenly around the wreath for a polished look.

• Use wire or hot glue: secure heavier items like pine cones so they don’t fall off.

• Add a pop of colour: red berries, gold accents, or shiny ornaments can make your wreath really stand out.

• Get creative: small ornaments, cinnamon sticks, or even tiny figurines can give your wreath personality.

Step 3: finish and display

Once your decorations are in place, it’s time to make sure everything stays put and your wreath looks perfect. Fluff up branches, adjust decorations, and secure loose pieces with wire or glue. Don’t forget to add a ribbon or loop at the top so you can hang it proudly on your door or wall!

• Check stability: give your wreath a gentle shake, everything should stay in place.

• Fluff and adjust: make sure branches and decorations are evenly spread and visually balanced.

• Add a ribbon or bow: this not only helps with hanging but also adds a festive finishing touch.

• Pick a spot: hang it on your door, above a fireplace, or even use it as a centerpiece.

Tips from my wreath-making experience:

1. Work in a clockwise direction, following the flow of the branches.

2. Embrace a natural look: group decorations like dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, or berries in small bunches for a balanced, harmonious effect.

3. Don’t stress about perfection: every wreath has its own charm, so be proud of your creation!

Wreath‑making workshops you can try in London

If you enjoyed learning how to make your own wreath (or want to give it a go for the first time), there are several brilliant workshops across London where you can join in, meet others and walk away with your own creation. Here are a few to consider:

Blooms & Evergreen (West Hampstead)

Blooms & Evergreen, in West Hampstead, is a creative floristry studio offering hands-on wreath-making workshops with fragrant evergreens, seasonal blooms, and festive decorations. Perfect for beginners and flower lovers alike.

What you will find there:

• Private group workshops (for 4–10 guests) in a cosy studio in West Hampstead. 

• You’ll use fragrant evergreens, seasonal blooms and attractive decorative accents — and make a luxury 10″ wreath to take home. 

• Ideal for friends, couples or a relaxed evening out.

Roseur London (King’s Cross / Coal Drops Yard)

Located in Coal Drops Yard at King’s Cross, Roseur is a creative florist specialising in fresh and dried flowers, wreaths and hands‑on workshops. 

What you will find there:

• Offers both public classes and mobile/corporate workshops across London. 

• Materials included: winter foliage, dried accents, ribbons and more. Their sessions are beginner‑friendly and full of style. 

• Perfect if you want a festive, artsy experience in London, or if you’re planning a group activity.

Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery (Ealing)

Nestled in the heart of Ealing, this beautifully restored Grade I‑listed villa, once the country home of architect Sir John Soane, now pairs historical splendour with contemporary art workshops and events.

What you will find there:

• Historic venue offering festive wreath workshops in the early evenings. 

• All materials provided, and it’s suitable for beginners. A nice mix of creativity + atmosphere.

And once you’ve picked your favourite workshop (or simply feel inspired), it’s time to get creative. Here are some festive wreath ideas to spark your imagination!

Festive wreath inspirations

Christmas instantly makes us think of decorations, festive cheer, and of course, gathering family and friends around a good meal. But did you know wreaths can also be a great inspiration for your holiday dishes?

For example, try this salad, it’s as delicious as it is pretty (and so simple!): mixed salad leaves, pears, walnuts, blue cheese, and pomegranate (one of my favorite fruits to decorate salads!).
Or how about this Caprese Christmas wreath? Totally my style: a healthy, colourful appetiser that looks amazing on the table!
For dessert (or all day treat!), I’d personally go for this BBC Good Food recipe: a spiced fruit & pistachio bread wreath. Pistachios always make everything a little more festive, don’t they?

And that’s just the start! There are so many ideas out there, especially on Pinterest, for edible wreaths you can use to decorate your home and then enjoy eating everything up by Christmas.

Have fun getting creative!

 

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and found inspiration here. If you are planning to make your own wreath or have any recommendation of wreath-inspired recipes, please share your experience here!

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Don’t miss my other Christmas articles! Check them out here.

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To go further:

Blooms and evergreen: West Hampstead, London

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Roseur London: Lower, Coal Drops Yard, Stable St, London N1C 4DR

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Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery: Ealing Grn, London W5 5EQ

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