Wreaths of the Heartland

We left the husks on burgundy miniature popcorn to reflect the nickname Cornhusker State. Referring to the early method of harvesting corn, the moniker is carried by today's University of Nebraska athletic teams. Dried materials could substitute for our fresh orange kumquats and green boxwood.

To make this wreath: Begin with a premade grapevine wreath (ours was 10 inches wide). At a grocery store, buy enough small strawberry popcorn cobs (with husks left on) to cover the wreath. Place florist's wire around each cob and attach to the grapevine form. Thread wires through fresh kumquats (or around dried ones) and attach to the form. Wrap wire around small bouquets of fresh boxwood or dried greens before attaching to the wreath. We added a burgundy velvet bow at the base.