Southern Exposure: Square Wreath

Time for another Southern Exposure visit -- this time to make a square springtime wreath. Today's photos are courtesy of my friend Jan, as I forgot my camera! That must be a first!

It was a much nicer day than our last somewhat icy visit! Jan captured many of the wonderful vignettes that make Southern Exposure more of an experience than simply a destination. It all begins with rose petals and blossoms strewn along the paths.

Then, of course, we can't miss the wonderful displays. Some of the flowers are real, even this early in the spring. I love how the toile fabric dressed up an ordinary container into something quite memorable.

Of course, you might also find some high quality silks. (Why yes, I did happen to purchase a few flowers in the gift shop, thank you!)

I always get overloaded with ideas when I visit this spot. I know that I upgraded my floral urns after I started seeing how much nicer they made the flowers look!

The wreath we were to make is based on a format they discovered quite popular in Australia during one of the group's international tours, though we've been seeing more square styles here, too. This hydrangea wreath is not the one we made (you'll see that below) but it is incredibly striking!

Chef Elsie's dinner was also Australian-based. Put a few shrimp on the barbie, please! And the table setting was, as always, elegant and made all the guests feel very special.

After dinner we moved to the craft tent. Our stations included a moss-covered square wreath, four bright yellow gerbera daisies and waterpicks, some faux forsythia, scissors and some curly willow. We could get additional supplies if needed, but what they provided as plentiful.

With more than 50 people making wreaths, there was a lot of energy! Our instuctor Micah gave an overview of the balance and design of the elements, then turned us loose.

Everyone's was different!

And here is mine, taken at home.

So, today I leave you with a little bit of joy and a lot of spring. We're seeing warmer weather here in Michigan and I hope those of you who have been dealing with winter for the past few months are finding some joy in the sun and early blooms.

I know I am!

This post is linked to Talk of the Town and Thoughts of Home on Thursday later this week! Stop by -- both sites have terrific links and great ideas!