Crafting innovative ways to greet guests, wreath artist shows at Honeycomb
The wreath is an adornment that dates back 2,500 years, to the Persian Empire. Circular fabric headbands, sometimes embellished with jewels, gave way in later years to the laurel-leaved garland crowns worn by the victors of the Olympic games. Within everyday Greco-Roman society, headdress rings made of thin branches, leaves, flowers, and small fruit, were worn to denote one’s occupation, rank, or status.
As more modern societies took advantage of the resources available during what is now known as the Craft Revolution (or DIY Renaissance), people started getting fancy with the materials they used to create wreaths. Twine and twig gave way to tubing and tulle, and the answer to rotting fruit and wilted flora came in the form of gilded gourds and decoupage décor. Before long, necks worldwide were straining under the weight of such elaborate headpieces, so the wreaths were instead hung in a prominent spot in the home.
Or something like that.
The point is, today we like to be-wreath our walls and, more often, our entryways. Lowcountry local Andrea Jamison of Pink Porch Creations is right on trend, helping folks make a fabulous first impression by festooning their front door instead of their face. The Kentucky native and mother of two earned a degree in Early Childhood Development and worked for years with infants and toddlers as a developmental interventionist, but now creates the most magnificent, personalized symbols of “welcome.” During the months of October and November, Jamison will be displaying her wreath work at The Honeycomb Café on Seven Farms Drive in Daniel Island and, of course, selling her festive pieces – from team-themed to holiday-ready – just in time for seasonal decorating and gift-giving.
Jennifer Johnston: When did you make your first wreath, and what inspired you to do it? Do you remember what is was, and how you felt about the finished product?
Andrea Jamison: I made my first wreath during our first Christmas in South Carolina. I’ve always enjoyed decorating my home for the holidays. I had a vision of the wreath I wanted, so that’s how the first one came to being. It was a huge red and lime green mesh wreath with an elf as the main element. I really loved it, but looking back I can see how much I’ve improved on my technique.
JJ: At what point did you decide to turn this craft into a business, and what (or who) gave you the nudge to do it?
AJ: At first I just made them for family and friends. Turning it into a business was a natural progression. I love having a creative outlet and this is my way of exhibiting that. Besides, my husband was going to throw me out of the house if we needed more storage for all of the wreaths I have made!
JJ: What are your most popular wreaths to date (college teams, seasonal, coastal, etc)? How “custom” do you get with concept, materials, color?
AJ: My biggest sellers have been my collegiate sports wreaths. They are the perfect gift for the sports fanatic, whether male or female. Being on the coast of course gives me many orders for wreaths with a coastal flair, and burlap wreaths were extremely popular this year. I love customizing for each individual! Bring me a color palette or idea and I will create something beautiful for your door.
JJ: How often do you play with different materials and accessories for your wreaths? What is the most unusual element you’ve incorporated?
AJ: The wreath business is always changing, so I’m always trying to hone my craft. I spend my evenings watching tutorials or searching the internet for special florals, ribbons, or materials. I believe the diaper wreaths have been the strangest material to work with. They are cute, though, and a fun way to add a little something special to a baby shower.
JJ: Where do you currently sell? What can visitors to Honeycomb expect to see displayed over the two months?
AJ: I currently sell my wreaths on my Facebook page, Pink Porch Creations, or anyone can call me at 859-896-3208 or email requests to andrea@micahgroup.com. Over the next two months at Honeycomb, I will begin with Halloween and fall wreaths and in November I will be presenting Christmas ones. I love whimsical and colorful creations, but I will also have traditional concepts on hand.
JJ: What is the price range of your wreaths? Can you speak to the sustainability of them as well?
AJ: All wreaths on display will be for sale. I will have wreaths from $30-$120; I want my customers to let me know the price range they feel comfortable with and I will create something beautiful for them. If treated with proper care, these wreaths should bring the owner years of enjoyment.
JJ: What do you most hope your wreaths bring to any home?
AJ: I want my wreaths to be a lasting and cherished part of your home decorating tradition, so I carefully make each one like it was going to be placed on my own door. My wreaths are made from my home for yours. I would love to thank Oanh at The Honeycomb Cafe for choosing me as her guest artist. I’m truly honored.