A Local Tradition: Weston Farms

Magnolia leaves are a time honored tradition in Southern decor, and at Christmastime they take front and center stage.  One of the best places to shop fresh greenery and magnolias is at the NC State Farmer's Market, where internationally acclaimed Weston Farms got it's start back in 2002.  Owner Erin Weston (dubbed the Magnolia Queen by Walter Magazine) grows her magnolias right here in Garner, NC on her family's 30 acre farm.  An art history major, she dabbled in heirloom vegetables and perennials before trying her hand at wreath making from magnolia cuttings, and idea inspired by the fresh fir wreaths being sold at the Farmer's Market.  Her designs were so popular, she had a hard time making them fast enough to keep in stock at her own Farmer's Market booth.

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Fast forward more than a decade later, and the Weston Farms brand is now a leading wreath and garland supplier internationally.  Lucy and I stopped into the  Weston Farms booth at High Point Furniture Market this year to check out the latest trends in magnolia swag.

We loved the combo of fresh greenery, magnolia, and giant pine cones for an entry garland that makes a huge statement. You can imagine why her garlands are so popular for historic Southern home tours -- these are so traditional and timeless, but the sheer size of her garlands won't be dwarfed by large stonework, double doors, or the classic sprawling Southern front porch.

Arranging magnolia clippings in silver vases, trophies, or mint julep cups was a huge trend this year. 

And if you are wanting some inspiration for your holiday decor, check no further than their Instagram account.  That's the owner's den mantel, all done out in magnolia garland splendor with a little pheasant feather thrown in for good measure.

And around town you'll be sure to spot designers using these great garlands and wreaths in their holiday decorating.  

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For local readers, you can always purchase Weston Farms greenery at their booth at the Farmer's Market.  When we were at High Point Market we were told the discounted price given to designers that day is the same one that's available year round at the Farmer's Market booth, so if you are shopping there know that you are getting a great local discount.