Wreaths of Cape Ann: A Photo Series

(by KT Toomey, Special Wreath Correspondant)

Do you follow realtor Patty Knaggs on Instagram? If you do (and you should), maybe you've noticed her most recent photo series - a spread of local wreaths found at homes and businesses in Gloucester and surrounding towns. For the past three years, Patty has consistently been capturing some of the most beautiful and creative wreath arrangements here on Cape Ann.

Above: Wreath at Alchemy, Duncan St, Gloucester

While she normally loves photographing flowers she comes across during her travels, December leaves a lot to be desired as far as the local landscape options go- so Patty needed moved on to the next best thing! An added appreciation for anything Christmas led the way to a yearly wreath round-up, with some Christmas lights sprinkled in. "I look forward to extra lights and decorations at this dark time of year," she said, "I also see a lot of front doors in my line of work."

Above: Wreath designed by Celia's Flower Studio

When it comes to grabbing the perfect picture, Patty will stop at almost nothing! She's been known to (safely) stop her car, put her flashers on, jump out, and take pictures of a deserving wreath. Her friends are also used to tolerating her stopping her conversation mid-sentence to grab a photo of a home or storefront. It's all worth it in the end, Patty believes, to snap a picture of a festive holiday decoration that will be gone by month's end.

Patty's few favorite types include simple, plain boxwood types or with just an elegant bow. "I like them very natural, I like them color themed and I like them "untraditional" - and I like creativity!"

Above: Wreath designed by Celia's Flower Studio, seen at Unwind Hair and Color, Main St.

Of course, Patty naturally has one on her own door. She chose purple and red for advent and red for Christmas this year.

Patty's personal wreath, above, was also beautifully crafted by Celia's Flower Studio at 77 Langsford Street in Lanesville. To get your own beautiful, unique wreath, visit the studio's website.

Do you have a favorite wreath? Do you want to show us your own design? Sound off on the Live on Cape Ann Facebook page!

(cover photo: wreath seen at Manchester Historical Society)