Decorating for the Season with Magnolia Leaves

This is the practical path through the project, including the choices that stayed. Last fall we added new landscaping around our back patio, including the addition of three magnolia trees that have become one of the preferred things about our outdoor space. The huge, fragrant magnolia blossoms are finished and even when the tree is not in bloom, its large, glossy leaves make it a stunner. My trees are still babies with lots of growing to do, but I'm already thinking about the notable things that I'll be able to create once they've leafed out enough that I can snag a bunch of those finished leaves without leaving my trees looking too bare. I have lots of approaches about what I could do with magnolia leaves but the preferred is actually a very simple one – staggering them at different heights in a unique container such as a vintage copper pail or a galvanized tub. Or they could be used as centerpieces or as decorative accents on a mantel, sideboard, or console.

{Design Indulgence}

Magnolia leaves also look finished in arrangements with other greenery, as shown in this fan shaped arrangement of magnolia leaves, winterberry, and ornamental cabbages.

The size and shape of magnolia leaves make them well suited to wreaths.  Southern Living has a great online guide with instructions {here} on how to make your own magnolia wreath such as this beauty. 

The Smiths from The Smith Nest used Southern Living's guide to create their own version of a magnolia wreath which is made all the more polished by the variation in color of the leaves that they used.

Another great tutorial on making magnolia leaf wreaths can be found atSweet Something Designs where Michelle shares how she made this fabulous wreath.

I'm also crazy about the look of a magnolia leaf garland draping across a fireplace. Or how about having a magnolia garland that circles around the columns of your front porch – finished!

{The Magnolia Company}

I am a huge Pinterest fan but I have to say that I feel kind of sorry for all of you girls that are planning weddings now because Pinterest has too many notable wedding approaches and I would make myself crazy wanting to incorporate all of them into my wedding!! Like {this fantastic image of magnolia leaves adorning the chandeliers of a southern wedding} or how about {these magnolia leaf seating / place cards}?! My parents should be very, very thankful that my wedding was pre-Pinterest….

Have you ever created anything for your home or a wedding using magnolia leaves? Have a great start to your week everyone!