Woodsy Themed Decorations

For a retirement party at work, I was requested to help out with the decorations because of my love for crafting and "artist eyes". There was a woodsy theme for the retiree who loved the outdoors, so I helped to put some plants together, make "Reserved" signs, and make a corsage and boutonnière for the honoree and his wife.

After having a log cut in half lengthwise, someone helped to drill a little hole for a stick to make a standing table sign. I painted "Reserved" with little decorative leaves on the face of each log to make a sign to place on each of the two center tables.

back side, with stick stand

blank faces of the log halves

backs of the log halves

design drafted in pencil

completed signs

Using an assortment of white flowers, leaves, miniature duck figurines, small pinecones, feathers, and some floral tape and ribbon, I made a matching corsage and boutonnière for the honorees. I made a bouquet of flowers, leaves, and feathers and wrapped the stems in floral tape. I wove in some pinecones attached to thin wire, and filled in more flowers and leaves where the bundles looked empty. I wrapped the stems with thin hemp string, and tied a bow with some shimmery light brown ribbon.

completed bouquet with floral tape

completed bouquet with hemp string

wrapped in ribbon

comparison to inspiration I found online

attaching the flowers to the corsage bracelet

boutonniere and corsage, side by side

I had a lot of fun putting together the decorations, and celebrating at the party. Everyone else seemed to be having a great time too. I always love making things, especially when other people can enjoy them too.

welcome/check-in table

continuing the duck theme

<3 Mandy