We love garland around here for our Dallas Christmas clients. Mostly because it’s versatile and timeless, but also because it adds a subtle dose of holiday cheer anywhere it’s placed. We’re certainly not trying to reinvent the wheel with where or how to hang garland in your home, but since it does happen to be one of the simplest ways to transform our spaces for the holidays, and something we love to return to year after year, we figured that it’s worth showing our favorite ways to display this festive greenery.
Holiday greenery has a long tradition and dates back to winter solstice celebrations. Although it goes unnoticed for most people now, the winter solstice was once a significant event for people around the world. As the shortest day of the year, the winter solstice was often met with unease, and people would remind themselves of the cyclical nature of the seasons by decorating their homes with evergreen, as it symbolized the idea of perseverance through the winter.
When the first settlers arrived in the US, they brought Christmas garland with them. Around the holidays, families looking to make a little extra money would take the branches of firs, pines or spruces and twist them until they became flexible, shapeable decorations. Families would then sell them to neighbors or villagers, helping them bring in a little extra income during the tough months.
MANTLE GARLANDS
Garlands are a natural complement to trees and our Dallas designers love to use elements of firs, pines and spruces. Sophisticated artificial versions are practically indistinguishable from natural versions. Over the years, our clients have come to realize how frustrating it can be to string needle-dropping branches throughout their homes. Our artificial decorations don’t suffer from this problem, and they also don’t release allergens or discolor as they age. Garlands are the perfect decoration for the client that wants beauty without any of the hassle.
STAIRCASE GARLANDS
The first garlands were used to decorate Christmas trees and bring some festive cheer to the home. They were also full of Christmas (and Christian) symbolism. Since traditional garlands were circular in shape, they were “infinite,” like the love of Jesus. Live holly, which was often used when weaving garlands together, signified the crown of thorns Jesus wore during the crucifixion. The red holly berries were reminders of the blood Christ spilled for Christians all over the world.
Christmas garland has come a long way from its traditional use. So, this year, expand its horizons (and yours) and use it someplace new. Or give us a call today at (972) 417-3800 and let us help you decorate your home or business for the upcoming Christmas season!
