As the Yuletide season approaches, many are busy preparing, from shopping for gifts and hosting parties to decorating trees and hanging holly wreaths on their doorsteps. Nonetheless, holly wreaths are not merely Christmas ornaments. They are also the perfect choice to honour your departed loved ones. Holly wreaths work great as graveside tributes, embodying the essence of the season and elegance.
But what does this floral arrangement truly symbolise? Where can you find one, and how to choose the right holly wreath? Read on to find out how to use holly wreaths to honour tradition and cherish loved ones this Christmas season.
What Are Holly Wreaths
Just like a funeral wreath, a holly wreath is a circular floral arrangement used to honour the memory of a dearly departed. While funeral wreaths are commonly displayed at memorial services, holly wreaths are appropriate graveside tributes. It is also different from the Christmas wreaths, a traditional decor usually hung on your doorstep, windows, and walls, or placed as a table centrepiece. Holly wreaths symbolise protection, peace, eternity and everlasting life.
It is used to pay tribute to a loved one’s life, especially during the Christmas season. This floral arrangement is not just a quintessential charm because it represents elegance, the holiday spirit, and the never-ending cycle of life. For this reason, holly wreaths are the perfect arrangement to commemorate the departed, whether it’s a relative, friend, or comrade. It transcends the festive season, evoking a special charm and natural beauty at gravesides.
If you’re wondering where to get this timeless floral arrangement in Aberdeen, Anastasia Florists offers exquisite holly wreaths, thoughtfully crafted with fresh, long-lasting leaves and ornaments.
Selecting Holly Wreaths for Loved Ones This Christmas Season
Now that you know the different types of wreaths and their uses, let’s talk about how to pick the perfect holly wreaths for your loved ones this Christmas season. More than just an adornment, holly wreaths are a traditional symbol of life and remembrance for those whom we hold dear. Although it won’t help relieve the pain of losing someone, holly wreaths may offer hope and solace, serving as a constant reminder to cherish shared memories with a dearly loved.
It also symbolises love and devotion, as well as admiration and respect, making holly wreaths an excellent offering for those who have gone before us but will forever be in our hearts.
Floral Arrangements
Wreaths, specifically pine or spruce, are made for festive occasions, bringing a touch of elegance to Christmas celebrations. Meanwhile, holly wreaths are suitable for honouring a loved one, which can be displayed at the memorial service, the family’s home, or gravesides. It is an elegant floral arrangement that adds beauty and warmth to a loved one’s resting place. But unlike funeral wreaths that are soft and delicate, holly wreaths are arranged in a way that captures the holiday spirit, eternal life, tranquillity, and remembrance.
Starting from its base, this arrangement is adorned with lush green and glossy holly leaves. It is then complemented with different kinds of embellishments, such as natural pine cones, beautiful flowers, bright ribbons, tartan bows, vibrant berries, and other trinkets. Holly wreaths are often made with fresh yet long-lasting pieces to ensure they look lovely and pleasant even if placed outdoors. Ribbons can also be added to holly wreaths, where you can write the name or a short message for the departed.
The Right Tribute for Him and Her
As mentioned earlier, holly wreaths are not arranged in the same way as funeral wreaths. While both floral tributes have circular bases, holly wreaths tend to be more festive in nature. Meaning, the design and colours of holly wreaths look more Christmassy, so they are appropriate graveside tributes during Christmas time. When selecting holly wreaths, adding a personalised touch makes it extra thoughtful—and you can do so by tailoring gender based arrangements.
If honouring a female friend or relative, go for soft, chic, and ladylike colours, like light pink, lavender, red, and yellow. These colours are perfect for holly wreaths as they convey elegance, kindness, and warmth, a heartfelt tribute for a woman’s memoir. Holly wreaths in shades of white, green, and blue are appropriate tributes for males, reflecting peace, respect, and tranquillity. But in particular, blue holly wreaths are the best tributes for a husband, brother, a male friend, or loved one, honouring their memory with integrity.
Tips for Sending Holly Wreaths
Once you’ve selected a fitting tribute for your dearly beloved, a friend, or colleague, here are some tips on how to properly send holly wreaths:
Delivery Time
Before you order anything from a florist shop, first consider the delivery time. It should be delivered at the graveside an hour before the service starts. If sending holly wreaths to someone’s sanctuary or a departed family member during the festive season, make sure to place the order with your local florist at least 2 days before the target delivery date, considering the holiday rush. This will allow your florist to work on the appropriate design and delivery, especially for bespoke arrangements.
Heartfelt Message
Regardless of your relationship to the departed, including a short heartfelt message in holly wreaths makes it meaningful. It also looks more respectful and is appreciated better since the arrangement has a touch of comfort and sincerity. The message should be short yet genuine, expressing love or admiration.
Cultural Traditions
Apart from expressing your thoughts, consider cultural traditions before sending holly wreaths to someone’s home or graveside. But if you’re unsure, consult your local florists about certain customs or practices to ensure the floral tribute respects the recipient’s cultural values.
A Timeless Reminder of the Beauty of Life
Whether celebrating a special occasion or honouring a departed loved one, holly wreaths are an excellent floral arrangement that may offer solace and bring joy to families. It is a timeless reminder to cherish the beauty of life and the memories of the living while honouring tradition. The holly wreath is a powerful symbol that adds elegance, beauty, and remembrance to the departed’s sanctuary, signifying that even though they are gone, they will never be forgotten.
But keep in mind that while holly wreaths evoke the holiday spirit, your tribute should remain respectful and thoughtful. If you’re in Aberdeen, check out our collection of exquisite Holly Wreaths, available for next-day delivery—that add timeless charm and natural elegance to your loved one’s resting place. This thoughtful tribute is meticulously crafted for the departed, be it a friend, companion, family member, or a mentor you have truly loved and admired.
