DIY Holiday Décor: Winter Wreaths

Create a warm welcome that smells as good as it looks

Chrissy Mozeleski is the owner of Helena Hills Farm, a U-pick flower farm in Hardeeville offering seasonal blooms and hands-on floral workshops. Each issue she shares creative, seasonal DIYs inspired by the beauty of the Lowcountry. This month she walks readers through how to make a classic farmhouse wreath using locally foraged greenery and natural accents.

Bring a little Lowcountry to your home this season with a handmade farmhouse wreath that’s as beautiful as it is fragrant. This design combines magnolia leaves, eucalyptus, dried lavender and dried citrus for a look that feels rustic, elegant and refreshingly natural. For an added touch of texture, you can tuck in a few pine cones, which are abundant across the Lowcountry this time of year. Their earthy tones and varied shapes blend beautifully with the greenery and add a subtle woodland accent. The result is a wreath that celebrates the textures and scents of winter, while adding a cozy, personal touch to your home.

Step 1: Forage and gather greenery

Start by heading outdoors to collect fresh foliage from around your yard or neighborhood. In the Lowcountry a mix of textures creates a lush, layered look:

Magnolia leaves: Their glossy green tops and copper backs add Southern richness.

Eucalyptus: Silvery leaves provide contrast and a refreshing scent.

Cedar, pine or cypress: Optional, but great for adding fullness and fragrance.

Cut stems about 6 to 8 inches long, and place them in water until you’re ready to build.

Step 2: Collect and prep accents

Add character and texture with dried lavender, pine cones or both. Lavender brings a soft, calming fragrance and beautiful purple tones. If you’re using pine cones, clean them by baking on a foil-lined tray at 200 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes to remove sap and bugs. Once cooled, they can stay natural or be lightly brushed with white paint for a frosted touch.

Step 3: Dry citrus slices

Dried citrus adds color and brightness to your wreath. Slice oranges, lemons or blood oranges about a quarter-inch thick, and bake at 200 degrees for 2 to 3 hours, flipping halfway through. The slices should be dry but still slightly translucent when done.

**Slice of the season**: Dried citrus adds warmth, color and a bright scent to this farmhouse wreath. The golden slices pair perfectly with greenery and lavender. They’re just as lovely on garlands, gift wrapping or in holiday cocktails.

Step 4: Assemble your wreath

Use a grapevine wreath base as your foundation. Bundle greenery together with floral wire, and layer in one direction until the form looks full and balanced. Tuck in lavender sprigs and citrus slices, securing them with hot glue or wire ties. Adjust spacing as needed so the colors and textures feel natural and even.

Step 5: Add the finishing touch

Tie a soft velvet ribbon at the bottom for a graceful finish. Try these:

Deep green for a classic farmhouse feel

Ivory or gold for understated elegance

Burgundy or rust for warmth

Deep plum or navy for a modern twist.

Hang your finished wreath on your front door, porch or barn. The mix of magnolia, lavender and citrus will fill the air with a clean, festive scent and welcome the season the Lowcountry way; naturally and beautifully.