The Art of Holiday Wreaths: History, NYC Style & How to Make Your Own

Holiday wreaths are one of the most timeless symbols of the season—adorning brownstone doors, apartment foyers, hotel entrances, and shopfronts across New York City. Whether lush and traditional or modern and minimalist, wreaths are a beautiful way to welcome the holidays into your home.

At Alaric Flower Design, we craft luxury wreaths for homes, restaurants, hotels, and offices across Manhattan. In this guide, we’ll explore the history of wreaths, the materials that define them, and how you can design your own NYC-inspired holiday wreath at home.

A Brief History of Holiday Wreaths

The wreath has existed for thousands of years, evolving across cultures and traditions:

• Ancient Greece & Rome: Laurel wreaths symbolized victory, achievement, and honor. (Source: Encyclopaedia Britannica)
• European Winter Traditions: Evergreens were used as a symbol of life during the darkest part of the year.
• Christian Advent Wreaths: Circular shapes represented eternity; candles symbolized hope, love, joy, and peace.
• Modern Holiday Decor: Today wreaths are used worldwide as a festive, welcoming decoration for homes and celebrations.

In New York City, wreaths have become a seasonal design statement—seen on Upper West Side brownstone stoops, Upper East Side lobbies, Tribeca loft doors, and stylish boutiques across SoHo.

What Makes an NYC Holiday Wreath?

New Yorkers love wreaths that balance modern sophistication with festive warmth. Here are the most popular styles:

1. Lush Evergreen Classic

Cedar, pine, fir, ilex berries, pinecones. Timeless and fragrant.

2. White & Gold Manhattan Minimalist

Magnolia leaves, eucalyptus, gold-painted branches—clean and elegant.

3. Berry-Forward Winter Red

Ilex berries, red twig dogwood, winter greens—bold and vibrant.

4. Dried Floral Modern

Pampas grass, eucalyptus, dried citrus slices—stylish and long-lasting.

5. Asymmetric NYC Designer Wreath

One side full, one side airy. This is the contemporary look seen in Tribeca galleries and Chelsea restaurants.

Materials You’ll Need to Make a Holiday Wreath

Everything below is easily sourced at the Chelsea Flower Market, the Union Square Greenmarket, or your local florist:

• Wreath base (grapevine, wire frame, or foam)
• Evergreens: cedar, fir, pine, juniper
• Accent foliage: magnolia, eucalyptus
• Berries: ilex, holly, hypericum
• Decorative elements: pinecones, cinnamon sticks, dried oranges
• Floral wire or zip ties
• Ribbon (velvet, satin, or linen)
• Shears or floral snips

How to Make Your Own Holiday Wreath (Step-by-Step)

1. Build the foundation

Start with your evergreen branches. Cut into manageable pieces and attach them to the frame in one direction using floral wire.

2. Add your feature foliage

Layer magnolia leaves, eucalyptus, or noble fir for texture and movement.

3. Create depth with accents

Berries, pinecones, or red dogwood branches add pops of color and architectural lines.

4. Choose your focal point

NYC designers often create an asymmetric cluster—one area intentionally fuller for visual drama.

5. Finish with ribbon or ornaments

Velvet ribbon is classic Manhattan luxury; linen ribbons offer a Scandinavian feel.

6. Mist lightly for longevity

Evergreens love cool air and humidity—mist once daily and avoid placing wreaths in direct heat.

Where to Hang Your Holiday Wreath

• Front door – the iconic NYC brownstone moment
• Above the fireplace – dramatic and warm
• Apartment entryway – perfect for Manhattan apartments
• Restaurants & hotels – welcoming and stylish
• Office reception – seasonal, elegant branding

Prefer a Professionally Designed Wreath?

Alaric Flower Design creates custom wreaths across Manhattan in every style—from traditional to modern luxury. We work with homeowners, restaurants, hotels, and offices to design, deliver, and install breathtaking holiday pieces.

To order or schedule a consultation:
Alaric Flower Design
📍 54 W 70th St, New York, NY 10023
📞 (212) 308-3794
🌐 www.alaricflowers.com

Holiday Wreath FAQ

Which greens last longest in a wreath?

Cedar, fir, juniper, and magnolia leaves last 2–4 weeks with proper care.

How do I keep my holiday wreath fresh?

Mist daily, avoid heaters or direct sunlight, and choose moisture-retaining greens.

Where can I buy wreath-making materials in NYC?

The Chelsea Flower Market, local florists, and the Union Square Greenmarket have excellent evergreen selections in December.

Can Alaric create a custom wreath for my home or business?

Yes. We design and deliver bespoke wreaths for Manhattan homes, restaurants, hotels, and offices.