Last weekend I had the pleasure of being invited to make a wreath for a charity drive at Duvall Flower and Gifts in Washington. I was intrigued. I have zero experience in the wreath-making industry and not having the faintest clue of where to begin but being a lover of all things holiday/outdoors-y I merrily joined in. Fortunately the store owner and wreath making guru, Schatzi, was able to guide us through the steps and share some fun in the process.
The back of Duvall Flower and Gifts functions as the wreath-making lab during the annual charity drive. Anyone can call to arrange a time for themselves or a small group of people to make individual wreaths. Schatzi provides all the materials from local tree clippings and the wreath frame itself for a small donation to a local charity selected by her shop. Wreath making has been a holiday favorite of people in the past and I was happy to have tagged along for this activity.
Once we selected our wreath materials Schatzi instructed us on how to clip them and fit the stems together in a bundle. She advised us on the variety and placement (she is the flower/foliage expert after all) and how to use the wreath press before allowing us to embark on our own creative wreath endeavors. You would be surprised at how much creative license is employed in determining how much ‘fanning’ is necessary or the decision to alternate layers of Noble or Fraser Fir. Will this wreath include a ribbon? Will it pay homage to the winter-wonderland classics? Will it have long and elegant strands draping from its boughs? The possibility is yours!
While waiting your turn at the wreath press you can wander the store or have a chat with Schatzi herself about the shop. The charities she chooses to donate all the proceeds to have been local non-profits intended to benefit the community she lives and works in. The wreath clippings are procured from local trees not harmed or farmed and in the spirit of the holidays it feels right to support a small business and a charity in one go.
In every corner you will find delightful little treasures and excellent gift ideas if you happen to be in the market or not yet finished with your holiday shopping. If not, you will still be leaving with a hand-crafted, fragrant wreath of your own creation and that alone is worth the trip!
[…] near Duvall, Washington, it takes about 45 minutes to reach this trailhead from Seattle. From I-5 North, take exit 168B […]