Most Christmas Mini sets involve a setup that sits around or behind the
subjects, but rarely all around and in front of framing them in the cutest
fashion! I love this giant wreath of mine. I use it for Christmas Mini Sessions
here in Longmont, CO at my studio as well as for spring sessions dressed up with
all the flowers for on-location spring minis. A lot of my setups take a lot of
DIY spirit. Any other crafters out there like me? Have you made your own giant
wreath? Let me know in the comments below what you did differently.
How I made my giant Christmas Wreath:
1. Bend a 3x4 inch or 1 inch wide 8 ft long PVC pipe from Lowes or Home Depot into a circle
2. Put industrial strength glue on a metal bar that will fit inside the PVC. Also, attach together with an attachment piece
3. Use additional glue on any creases and wrap with duct tape. (this process is a two-person job to help hold things in place)
4. The metal rod will help to keep from drooping into an oval shape when hung) this would easily happen to a hula hoop. Once you have glued and taped, set your circle upright on a tarp or newspapers (dripping) and place heavy objects on top to help it keep its shape. Let dry 24 hrs.
5. Once dry. Continue to help shape if needed. Use a hairdryer on heat to slightly loosen the elasticity.
6. Use Floral tape and wrap around the entire wreath (this will help ensure no white is visible through greenery later)
7. Purchase bare (if you want to have more diversity with how you decorate your wreath... i.e. spring flowers too) garlands. Michaels has a nice selection around the holidays. I used more of a loose fern type greenery for my wreath. Different pine will have different vibes.
8. Wire and wrap hoop.
9. Add ornaments and light if desired.
10. Hang from a backdrop stand. (this hoop is NOT for sitting on in a hung position.) If you are wanting one a client can sit on, you will need one professionally welded with metal. I have however had a stoll I have had my spring fairies sit on that I photoshop out for such an effect) And while my wreath is fairly lightweight, it still tests the hanging limit on my backdrop stand. I hang my wreath with gold wire.
Rebecca is located in Longmont, CO and you will find her family work at www.rebeccamabeyphotography.com Setup a call today to talk about your family portrait needs.
