Bringing the Outside In: Winter Decor Ideas with Everbloom

This article, Bringing the Outside In, originally appeared in the Winter 2019 issue of Paprika Southern. We’re posting it here so it can bring joy to even more readers. Be sure to subscribe to PS: The Paprika Southern Podcast and follow us on Instagram for more inspiration for creative and intentional living.

Bringing the Outside In

Winter Decor Ideas with Everbloom

Floral Arrangements and Writing by Jennifer Frerichs of Everbloom, Inc.

Photographed by Siobhán Egan / Additional Styling by Bevin Valentine Jalbert

Location: Cohen's Retreat, Savannah, GA

Robert Frost wrote, “The woods are lovely, dark and deep. But I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep.”  The “dark and deep” description of this environment, this habitat teeming with life just beneath the quiet surface, evokes the mood of the winter season. From a quick sweep of the eye, things seem to be at rest. Few flowers bloom here. Their ripe and flashy moments have come and gone with the warm months of summer, and all that remains are berries and seeds to carry their survival into the spring season to come. But upon closer inspection, there is plenty of beauty that remains. 

Maturity brings an appreciation for the sturdy branches and layered textures of foliage and vine. The blooms have long since faded, but their strength and steadfastness deserve recognition and a place on our table or mantle. This is their season; the time to appreciate the foundation of the woods, that which provides the groundwork for each spring and summer to come. Let us celebrate the diversity and layers of textures and bring the outside in. 

Mantle

A mantle can be a large undertaking. Instead of being overwhelmed with an expanse of greenery, start with an established piece and build from it. Embracing the elements of the coastal region, the stark, elegant branch of foraged driftwood sets the foundation for the mantle composition. Clippings of cypress, magnolia, and oregonia, as well as poppy pods and pepper vine berries provide the main elements of softening filler. Colored driftwood garland adds a whimsical touch, and mercury glass appears as baubles nestled inside suspended glass terrariums. The combination of foraged, established and holiday décor creates a unique seasonal display from which anyone can find inspiration.

Centerpiece

Mercury glass has a delicious patina to match the winter mood. The goblet as vessel offers a variety of uses. It elevates the composition both literally and figuratively, and works beautifully either as a centerpiece or on a side table. Start by creating a base with large magnolia leaves, building a structure to add the finer details to later. Choose a focal point to draw the eye. Here, the Protea bloom fits the bill for a single element that brings the drama. While not something we can forage in coastal Georgia, the color defines the design scheme and the hint of pink softens the assortment of greens. Use foliage of various sizes, colors, and textures to finish the arrangement, as well as some berries for additional interest. Round out the look with a bed of moss, and it establishes a forest floor for the goblet to rest. 

Wreath

Wreaths can last an entire season, or sometimes are intended for just a special event. Cypress, pines and other evergreens have the best staying power, but creatives can crave something a little more unique to add to this decorative piece. Here, the wreath form is left partially exposed to create an interesting crescent shape. The tried and true greenery are attached, and then topped with poppy pods, eucalyptus stems, and privet berries. Lichen-encrusted twigs lend additional color, shape, and texture, and holiday shine is established with mercury glass ornaments. A gold-toned ribbon is used to hang the wreath in place of a more traditional bow form, and the wreath is complete.