Posted on May 16, 2010 under wreaths | Comments are off
Which day remains in our memory for as long as we live? What preceded each and every family life? Indeed, you will agree with me, in fact, everybody will agree – it is our own wedding day!From as young as 12 years old I began to dream about my future family and my wedding day! I tried to get all possible information about wedding tips and ideas. My room was piled up with magazines and books on weddings in different countries, wedding traditions in different cultures and nations. Many years passed since that time. Till now this information helped not only me for my the most important day in my life, but to many of my friends and colleagues – for their wedding day. And today I would love to share my homework on weddings with you. Worth-trying wedding ideas from foreign cultures. Surely, it will make your own wedding very unique and really memorable. And here it follows… An example of unique combination of old and modern traditions we can find in Russian and Ukrainian weddings.Customs of weddings in RussiaNowadays, Russian weddings come in a variety of different forms. They can contain elements of a traditional Russian wedding and also hints of a European or American-style wedding. The latter have become more and more popular and modern in recent years. True Russian weddings are unique in the fact that they are always lavishly played out! We say “played out,” as a Russian wedding ceremony is usually conducted as though it were a theatre spectacle where there is a script and everyone knows their role.In times gone by, a form of courtship would have taken place to secure the union of the happy couple. By tradition, the groom’s parents would ask the bride’s parents for their daughter’s hand in marriage for their son. Nowadays, this tradition has become practically extinct and only from time to time will the groom ask the bride’s parents for their daughter’s hand in marriage or request an approval of their union.As part of the Russian wedding ceremony, people still enjoy the tradition of ransoming the bride. Before the young couple leave to go to the ZAGS (Registry Office), the groom must go to his future wife’s house where he will be greeted by friends of the bride, relatives and guests. They organise various fun games for the groom, like, for example, asking him challenging risque questions, persuading him to carry out certain tasks and demanding a ransom for the bride. The groom must fulfil all the tasks, namely, singing, dancing, reciting poetry, solving riddles and various other challenges. Then, as a ransom, he must give out sweets and money to all those who have arranged the obstacles along the way to him winning his bride (in other words, those who have set the groom challenges to prove that he is worthy of his bride.)There is an age-old tradition that on the day before the wedding the bride will arrange a hen party and invite all her friends who will support and protect her in her new life. It is becoming an essential part of new traditions that the groom should organise a separate party for his male-friends; a tradition that has been imported from the West. The groom will say goodbye to his bachelor lifestyle whilst in the company of his friends.After the registration in the ZAGS or the ceremony in the church, the newlyweds and all their guests go to the reception which is usually held in a restaurant, a banqueting hall or at someone’s house. By tradition, the young couple is met by the mother of the groom or all the parents who offer them bread and salt. The young couple must then take turns to eat the bread. The person who eats the largest piece of bread will be the head of the household. This equal opportunity ritual between the couple has only been observed recently as before it would have always been the male who would stand at the head of the household.It is while everyone is sat around the table that all the guests will pass on their good wishes to the couple, raise toasts and offer presents. By tradition, two toddlers will be put in the centre of the room, one dressed in blue to symbolise a boy and the other dressed in pink to symbolise a girl. The guests will then offer sums of money to whichever toddler they choose. The toddler who receives the most money determines the sex of the married couple’s first child.A fundamental component of the Russian wedding is the cries of “gor’ko” where the newlyweds must stand and kiss for as long as possible. All the guests stand round them and count “1, 2, 3… 15…. 20, etc.” The longer the young couple can kiss for, the stronger their union will be. The guests always demand that they kiss for as long as possible. Often, the reception can be a tiring experience for the young couple as they have to entertain their guests by this kissing ritual.According to European tradition, the wedding ends with the bride throwing her bouquet over her head to all the unmarried girls in the crowd. Whoever catches it will become the next bride. After the ceremony has ended, the young couple goes off to their new house or hotel. At this point, the groom must take the bride in his arms and carry her across the threshold; a local custom that indicates the strength of their marriage. As a rule, the young couple then happily journey off into the sunset for their honeymoon.Ukrainian WeddingsGiven their common Slavic roots and culture, it is not surprising that Ukrainian weddings are very similar to Russian weddings. However, some variations do exist.On the day of the wedding, the groom’s first duty is to pick up his bride from her house. Before he meets his loved one he is met by relatives and friends who will demand a ransom for the bride. This is the most special and exciting part of the whole affair. The groom must complete several tasks in order to demonstrate his strength and intellect. If he fails to complete a task, then he must give out money, sweets and drinks to the guests. The result of his efforts is the possession of his loved one. This tradition remains popular to this day. After the groom’s challenges, the young couple will go to the ZAGS (Registry Office) and then the church (if they so choose). A celebration of the events usually follows the registration of the marriage.In today’s world, weddings in Ukraine can be compared with weddings in Europe, where the main ceremony is conducted in prestigious restaurants or big halls.Despite the loss of some traditions, the guests still present the young couple with a karavai loaf. As a rule, the loaf is baked only by those women whose family life has been very successful as it is said to bring good luck to the young couple in their own family life. The newly-wed couple will free two white doves – usually in front of the building where their wedding proceedings take place.One of the distinguishing parts of a Ukrainian wedding is that a giltse (a large wreath which is decorated with flowers and ribbons) is placed on the table next to the karavai loaf. This symbolises maidenly beauty and innocence.On her head, the Ukrainian bride will wear a wreath with different coloured cascading ribbons. At the end of the festivities, the bride will throw the wreath into a crowd of unmarried girls. The person who catches the wreath will become the next bride. This tradition is very similar to the European tradition where the bride throws her bouquet into the crowd. It has been said that the European tradition of throwing a bouquet into the crowd came from the Ukrainian tradition of throwing wreathes, however, nowadays Ukrainian weddings usually conform to European traditions.The host of the occasions will organise fun games, poems and little ditties. Guests usually give the couple useful, practical gifts, which will be helpful to the couple in their married life. Accepting the gifts is no easy matter. The bride and groom must show interest in every gift. They must unwrap the present, study it and then express their gratitude to the guest. The money usually goes to the groom, and other items and flowers go to the bride.Without any doubt, some wedding traditions are intertwined and interrelated in all cultures. There is always room for improvement in preparation for the moment of your dream – wedding day. Do your own research, share ideas with others, send me your own wedding tips – it will assist us all. Our efforts can make a difference to make wedding ceremonies better, brighter, more exclusive and worthy to be proud of.
Posted on Apr 24, 2010 under wreaths | Comments are off
If you’re anything like most people, December 1st marks that annual tradition of pulling those green Rubbermaid bins down from the attic, up from the basement, or out from under the bed, and stringing up the trusty old lights, well-worn Christmas decorations, and the seen-better-days Nativity Set. Put on some Christmas music, start mixing some wassail, and you’re off to a great start.
But in case you’re looking for a bit more this Christmas—a bit of decorating moxie, perhaps—here are five ideas that you can put into practice this Christmas season.
Why just one Christmas tree?
Here’s a great idea to multiply the Christmas spirit all around the house—add more Christmas trees. It may sound bizarre, it is actually a relatively inexpensive and enjoyable way to decorate. If you don’t already own a few Christmas trees from bygone eras, you can purchase one for a few dollars during the post-Christmas sales. Instead of a single tree in one corner of your living room, try putting up one large tree and one or two additional smaller trees. Put a miniature tree in the dining room, family room, or even a bedroom. With a few lights, beads, and bows, you can elegantly decorate your tree and spread the holiday cheer around the house.
No white Christmas? Bring it inside.
If there is no snow falling, but you’re longing for a white Christmas, don’t despair. You can bring the white Christmas inside. You can evoke images of a glistening icy tree by using white ribbon, silver garland, white drop ornaments, and white lights on your tree. To suggest drifts of snow, add white cotton to the mantel and prop Christmas decorations in it. Put paper snowflakes in the windows as a decorative plus. If you’re not opposed to cleaning up after the holiday has passed, you can purchase fake snow at most decorating stores and spread it strategically around decorations for an added effect.
Freshen up the Walls.
You may have amazing decorating taste, but come the holiday season, the existing wall art just won’t match the holiday mood. Try buying some Christmas prints, similar in size, but with different subject matter. A painting of a Christmas tree, a lovely winter scene, or holiday images can totally change a room from what it once was.
Realizing Wreath Power.
Wreaths are often overlooked but can be an incredible powerful design choice. While wreaths look great on doors, they also function great as indoor decoration also. Instead of your typical pictures or paintings on the walls, replace them with a series of wreaths. Wreaths can vary in style and color. You can even use wreaths woven with Christmas lights. In case you want to add a beautiful scent and fresh appeal to your wreath decorating, purchase wreaths made from real trees. You could also hang mini wreaths in your windows or even try a wreath as a centerpiece on your table.
Write on it.
Want to really add holiday joy into your living space? Spell it out. You can buy 3-D letters at local decorating stores or make your own from Styrofoam and poster board. Mount these letters on walls, atop mantels, or in windows to spell brief holiday messages like “Joy,” “Peace,” or “Noel.”
Posted on Apr 24, 2010 under wreaths | Comments are off
If you really want to bring people into the Christmas spirit when they come to your home during the holidays, here are several Christmas door decorating ideas that can be an excellent first step.
Your entrance way is the first thing that people see when they come to your home so it might be the most important part of your Christmas decorating.
Whenever it is that you choose for Christmas door decorating ideas this holiday season remember to have lighting on your porch. Extra lighting gives your porch a festive look and also makes it a little safer for guests.
Enjoy the holidays without adding extra stress to your schedule. If you enjoy making decorations for your home and have set aside time to do that, then have a ball! Purchasing a beautiful wreath or other ornament for your door is fantastic as well. Enjoy the season!
Posted on Apr 12, 2010 under wreaths | Comments are off
An integral part of Christmas is the decoration of rooms or the party venues. Decoration contributes largely in enhancing the vibrancy and the festive spirit of Christmas. Christmas decoration dates back to as early as the 16th century and as time went by, people thought of new innovative and creative ideas for decorating. The traditional way of decorating is still in style and has not lost its charm despite the unveiling of the contemporary style of decorating. Today, decoration is done largely on the basis of themes. There are thousands of Christmas decoration ideas and it is indeed a fun way of dispersing an ambience of festivity all around. The most enthusiastic of the lot when it comes to decoration are the kids. Don’t forget to include them in the fun of decorating. Although, there are many Christmas decoration ideas some of them are listed below.
The above cited Christmas decoration ideas are simple and can be quickly executed. Of course, you can add a personal touch to give it a unique look. Get together your friends and families and implement your Christmas decoration ideas for a bright festive look.
Posted on Mar 25, 2010 under wreaths | Comments are off
Christmas is a happy season. Some people make craft projects in the holidays to give out as presents for loved ones.
Christmas is a very special day for everyone. People steadfastly wait for this joyous season each year. It is a time of love, giving, sharing, and fun. It is the season of building unforgettable memories.
People indulge in Christmas crafts to feel the spirit of this wonderful occasion. These are different activities you can do relating Christmas. It can be an individual project or it can be worked on with a group. The ideas are very vast and varied. The crafts could be any project you could give out as gifts, or serve as wonderful home Christmas decors. Here are some examples you can try.
Manger Scene
A manger scene is a replica of the real event that transpired many years ago when Jesus was born in a manger. This project can be created through a wooden box. After that, it can be filled with dried grass or straw. The dressed dolls will serve as different characters. It seems like real humans are standing there once they where placed around the area.
The kids can also assist in stringing popcorns in a cord. They can tie decorations to tinsel. They can also cut out paper snowflakes, santa claus, angels, stars, and other Christmas characters. The glitters and tinsel may also be put there to add colors for the decors.
Doing the manger scene is a great bonding activity for the whole family, or among classmates in school. It is a good time to reminisce the real meaning of Christmas.
Bobble Preparation
It is also wonderful to make own bobbles. This can be made through styrofoam balls. These balls may be painted with different colors or wrapped in different colored papers. Glitter glue or the common glue and scattered glitter would also be used. Ribbon or other attractive items will also add beauty to these bobbles.
Candles with Christmas Ribbons
Any ordinary candle will look very special and beautiful if you decorate it. It can be tied or wrapped with ribbons. You could also spray scents. These make both wonderful presents and decorations.
Wreaths
Wreaths may come in different forms. This can be created through wire framing, tinsel, bobbles, fruit, candles, ribbon and a lot more. Close two ends of the wire to form a circle. Wrap the wire with old newspapers to give it a body, then wrap it afterwards with green crepe papers. Design the wreath with red ribbons and a candle in the middle. You can hang the wreath in your door or walls.
Christmas Cookies
Christmas cookies may also be prepared just to make plans ahead. Cookie baking should get before the busy season starts. These have to be saved in airtight containers and be frozen in designated portions. Therefore, even everybody is busy for Christmas preparation, there are still cookies left to eat.
Other than that, several things may still do to make this Christmas holidays worthwhile. It is possible to make festive ribbon candleholder. Only need to do is to decorate a bare glass votive candleholder to look happy enough to adorn the house and table for Christmas. They are also beautiful Christmas presents.
Sleigh
Sleigh centerpiece and Christmas swag will also add beauty to the house. These would surely bring a person in the Christmas spirit. At the same time, the satisfaction can never be paid by anything once guests see and give praises. They would feel proud because they created this by themselves.
It is also charming to make Christmas door hanger. This is convenient and quick craft to make. This is also nice on the doorknob to see and give signals when there is someone comes in to the house. Any color would also be put with it as long as it gives liveliness to the entire area.
It is really pleasant to the heart to make a good preparation for Christmas holidays whether you feel tired in finishing it. What�s important is you felt satisfaction and dedicate it to our Almighty God and loved ones.
Posted on Mar 23, 2010 under dried flowers | Comments are off
A great handmade gift for the holidays is a hand-sewn sachet, which can be in any shape and filled with any dried flowers or herbs. Whip up several sachet gifts in no time with tips from an accessory designer and former retail buyer in this free video on fashion crafts. Expert: Judi Flowers Contact: www.Flowerslippers.com Bio: Judi Flowers, designer and founder of Bonjour Fleurette, knows the recipe for successful seasonal footwear, mixing in her knowledge of style and trends and adding a dash of comfort and color.
Posted on Mar 09, 2010 under wreaths | Comments are off
Whenever most people start decorating for the coming Christmas, they typically set up with the Christmas tree and adorn it with lights and other fancy embellishments. It’s true that conventional Christmas ornaments almost constantly seem to focus round the jovial evergreen, with its broad range of adornment choices and unique pine scent.
However, there are ample more potential to help you adorn your home with multicolored touches inspired by Mother Nature and the winter period. The dark green color often linked with the Christmas ornaments are an amazing background for red, gold and silver accents. The twigs of trees such as the Balsam Fir, Fraser Fir or Scotch Pines which can be made to beautify mantelpieces, shape a foundation for center table arrangements or offer a lovely setting for Christmas wreaths.
Here are a few ideas for Christmas decorations to draw out a cheerful look into your home, both inside and out:
1. Centerpiece decoration for the merry table: Do you have a set of petite wicker baskets stored in your kitchen or lying around in your garage? You can make use one of these baskets to shape the foundation of a table ornament for a unique holiday lunch or dinner. Make use of some floral foam or oasis to secure pieces of fir, holly or pine — then put in some accents to set off the design such as berries, pinecones, even tree embellishments.
2. Beautify a doorway or arch by making use of a garland of pine rope. Add some nice touch ups by frilling it with matching colors and shapes such as bows or ribbons, pinecones, dried fruits and full spices.
3. Hang a Christmas wreath on your front door or front porch to greet Christmas carolers and your holiday guests. You can find a broad assortment of designs and types to go well with your taste and match the rest of your holiday decors. If you prefer to make some alterations, search out for extra unique stuff like boxwood as a substitute to the most common holly or pine. You can customize your wreath with natural or painted pinecones or berries — and, of course, jazz it up with a very lovely ribbon to add more elegance and compare its colors!
Should you opt to purchase a standard Christmas wreath, garland or swag, you have all sorts of potential for garnishing it in your own special way. One better feature of these added extras is that you may be capable to disengage them when it’s time to get Christmas ornaments down and store them up for use again for next season. The next Christmas season, you can just take them out from the attic and make a new one.
Wonderful ornaments such as Christmas wreaths, door garlands and swags sets off your Christmas tree and lengthen the winter evergreen theme to other areas of your home, both inside and out. Using some imagination and ingenuity, you can customize store-bought stuff to give them an exceptional look and appeal.
Posted on Feb 25, 2010 under wreaths | Comments are off
The Christmas wreath is a traditional decoration that is almost as popular as the Christmas tree. When hung on the front door, a Christmas wreath makes a warm welcoming for you and your guests. Giving your wreath a little extra pizzazz will make that welcome even more special and stand out from the rest.
Light it up
Adding lights gives your wreath an added dimension. A lit wreath makes a great statement, even from the curb (with a lot less work than hanging lights on the roofline). There are many lighting options, including white lights, colored lights, pre-lit wreaths and fiber optics. If you are adding your own lights, look for battery-operated strands at your garden supply store. A cord can turn into a tangled mess in the doorway, but a battery-operated solution can make your wreath sparkle without the fuss.
Ribbon
Ribbon dresses up any wreath. You can simply add one large bow or wrap the ribbon all around for even more impact. Or, tie lots of small bows for an all-over pattern. Ribbon with wire is best for dressing wreaths, because the shape of the ribbon stays put how you want it. It is better to have too much than too little – so buy a little more than you think you’ll use. Skimping out on the ribbon is noticeable, but if you do it right, ribbon will add fullness and style to your wreath.
Festive flowers
Flowers make a great display on wreaths. Silk flowers work best because they aren’t as fragile as live flowers and they last a lot longer. Poinsettias are a popular choice, but you may also consider purchasing plastic fruit. Adding plants brings life and color to your wreath.
Ornamentation
Branch out from the traditional wreath and add some personality with ornaments. Christmas tree ornaments can be tied onto a wreath with wire or fishing line. Just be sure you secure them tightly so they do not fall off when the door opens and closes. Don’t feel limited to Christmas ornaments. There are many objects that can enhance your wreath’s appearance. Some other items that can accent your wreath are:
Virtually any small item can be attached to a wreath. So, get creative and think of original ideas that reflect your distinct personality.
Finishing touches
It’s always the little finishing touches that really stand out. They are what make your wreath pop and stand from the rest. Some ideas that will complete your look include:
The wreath hanging on your front door is one of the first things to greet your guests. If you put thought into your wreath and decorate it with personal touches, you will make a great first impression. Plus, it’s a great welcoming for YOU. You will get that warm feeling of home before you even open the door.
Shiho repurposes an old book to create a one-of-a-kind photo frame. A great gift for Mother's Day! Here's what you'll need… 1) a hardcover book, 2) wrapping materials (leftover gift wrap, newspaper/magazine pages, or any available fabric), 3) dried flowers, 4) leftover ribbon or thread, 5) two 4 x 6 photos. Tools: scissors, exacto knife, spray mount (or glue), tape, ruler, glue gun. Song is "Picture Book" by The Kinks.
Posted on Jan 30, 2010 under wreaths | Comments are off
When we think of wreaths, most of us typically envision a traditional wreath made of greenery. This is usually accompanied by a bow of some sort and possibly pinecones. While these traditional Christmas wreath will always be steadfast favorites, there are many other ways to decorate and use wreaths. By taking a fresh approach to an old decoration, you can create something really unique and special that will be a centerpiece in your home for years to come. Here are a few things to consider when you rethink your idea of wreaths:
LocationThis will likely have the biggest impact on the structure and material of your wreath. Obviously if the location is outdoors, it must be made of weatherproof materials. Indoor wreaths are primarily impacted by their location in the home, as their construction and decorations will likely reflect their surroundings.
How Will It Be Displayed?Traditionally, wreaths have been hung above fireplaces and on front doors. However, the sky really is the limit on where your wreath might go. Here are a few different ideas to consider:
Window: Facing outside, inside or both by using a double-sided wreath hanger, such as ribbon, chain, or rope.On a mirror: The size of your mirror will dictate the size of your wreath.From a lighted wall sconce: Anywhere in the home, even the bathroom!Dining room chair: Small wreaths can really dress up the back of a dining chair when tied with bright ribbon.Easel: Prop a large, lighted wreath on an easel in one corner of a room. This works great when you have limited wall space, and can replace a tree in a small area.Table: Lay it on a table and put candles or a bowl of fruit in the center.Lighted hutch: A wreath propped up in a lighted hutch or curio cabinet is an unexpected surprise any time of year!Tree: Wreaths of different materials can be used to decorate a Christmas tree for an added touch of elegance or whimsy.Packages: Use a small wreath tied to a ribbon to dress up a special gift.
SizeThe location of your wreath will usually determine its size. Wreath sizes can vary greatly; however, most indoor wreaths range in size from 6 to 48 inches. An outdoor wreath used as a focal point on a home’s exterior might be as large as 72 inches in diameter.
MaterialThe material of your wreath will greatly impact its overall design and appearance. While the options are endless, below are some ideas to start with:Greenery: Fresh or artificialNatural materials such as pinecones, nuts, wheat, straw, grapevines, fresh or dried herbs, fresh or dried flowers, shells, leaves.Manmade materials such as Christmas balls, fabric, ribbon, paper or metal.
DecorationsFinally the fun stuff! Your imagination is the limit when it comes to a wreath’s decorations. When decorating your wreath, it’s important to consider the location (for example, an outdoor wreath should have weatherproof decorations), and who will be enjoying it. Below are some ideas to help get you started.
Living Room: Same color and possibly same decorations as your tree.Kitchen: Try decorating with cookie cutters, kitchen utensils, herbs, cinnamon sticks, etc.Children’s Room: Hand made ornaments, toys, candy canes, etc.Hobby related wreaths: Sports team colors or paraphernalia, sewing or needlecraft implements, antique cars or tractors, gardening tools, etc.
Whatever your choices, remember to have fun and use your imagination!
Your finished wreath will be one-of-a-kind, and you will want to protect it so that you can use it in the future. Be sure to consider this when you are storing it away by using products that are durable and convenient. There are many wreath storage bags and boxes on the market today that will keep your wreaths protected while in storage. By choosing an appropriate storage container, you’ll ensure that your wreath can be enjoyed for years to come.
