That 90's Ranch

Tag: home-decor

  • The Wreath I Didn’t Want to Let Go Of

    Every fall I make a handful of wreaths that I’m proud of. And then, every once in a while, I make one I fall in love with — the kind where I keep finding excuses to walk back out to the workshop just to look at it one more time. This year, that wreath is this one.

    I knew I wanted something soft this year — not the punchy orange-and-red fall you see everywhere, but something a little more heirloom, a little more “grandmother’s garden in October.” So I started with a base of blush, cream, and antique-gold maple leaves, the kind that look like they’ve been fading gently on the vine for weeks rather than screaming “pumpkin spice.” Layered underneath, sage-green foliage and rusty little fern sprigs give it depth without fighting for attention.

    Then came the berries — deep, wine-burgundy clusters tucked in close to the leaves, giving the whole thing a little weight and richness. And finally, the piece that ties it all together: a wide burgundy ribbon, hand-tied into a full, loose bow with long, trailing tails that spill almost to the bottom of the wreath. I let those tails move — no stiff, symmetrical loops here. I wanted it to feel like something you’d find growing wild, not something stamped out of a mold.

    I hung this one on the old oak in the yard to photograph it, and honestly, it might be my favorite styling shot I’ve taken all year. Something about the bark, the dappled light, the grass going a little golden in the background — it just felt right for this piece. It’s rustic without being rough, elegant without being fussy. It’s fall the way I actually experience it here at the ranch: warm, a little worn-in, and full of texture.

    I loved this design so much that I’m keeping one for my own front door this year — which almost never happens. Usually everything I make goes straight to the shop, but this one earned a spot at my house too.

    The good news is I made a few, and there are still a couple left in the shop if you’d like one for your own door:

    👉 Autumn Fall Burgundy Foliage Wreath

    If you’ve been looking for a fall wreath that leans elegant and antique rather than bright and bold, I think this might be the one. And if you make one yours, I’d love to see it on your door too.

    Until next time, Ronnie Kay

  • A New Backdrop, A New Wreath, and a Full House

    There’s something so satisfying about finally having a spot dialed in for photos. If you’ve been following along, you know I’ve been chasing the perfect light and background for my wreath shots for a while now — and I think I’ve finally landed on it.

    The New Door Setup

    Right outside my sunroom, I’ve set up a painted door leaned against the brick wall of the house, and honestly, it’s been a game changer. It’s just steps from my workshop, which means I can finish a wreath, walk it outside, and get it photographed while the light is still good — no lugging pieces across the yard or waiting for a “good day” to drive somewhere with better scenery.

    The brick gives just enough texture and warmth without competing with the wreath itself, and the door adds that cozy, welcoming, front-porch feeling that I think really matters for fall listings. It photographs beautifully in both morning and late afternoon light, and I’m already noticing the difference in how the listings look.

    Introducing: The Mixed Fern Wreath

    This one’s a little different from my usual fall lineup — softer, more textural, and built around layering several types of fern for depth rather than leaning on the bold pops of color I usually reach for.

    I wanted something that felt lush and a little wild, like it had been gathered rather than arranged. The layering of textures against that weathered door really lets the greens do the talking.

    A Full House This Season

    Life at home has looked a little different lately, too. My dad moved in with me recently, and it’s honestly been such a blessing having him here. He’s turned into one of my biggest cheerleaders when it comes to the wreaths — always ready with a compliment, always curious about what I’m working on next, and always happy to sit out on the porch with me.

    It’s a nice reminder that this little business isn’t just about the finished product — it’s woven into the everyday rhythm of home, family, and the people cheering you on along the way.

    More fall pieces coming soon — thanks for following along!

  • Mastering Wreath Photography: Tips for Optimal Light

    When I started working on the side door off our garage, I had one goal in mind—create a clean, simple backdrop where my wreaths could shine.

    And for a minute… I thought I had it.

    The door looked fresh. The brick had that warm, cozy tone I love. It felt like it should work.

    But there was one problem I couldn’t fix with paint or styling—light.

    The Problem I Didn’t See Coming

    That side door faces south, and while that might sound ideal, the roof overhang created a harsh shade line across the door most of the day.

    Half light. Half shadow. Constantly shifting.

    If you’ve ever tried to photograph anything for Etsy, you already know…
    that kind of lighting is a dealbreaker.

    • Colors don’t photograph true
    • Shadows cut right through your product
    • Editing becomes a nightmare
    • And worst of all—it just doesn’t look professional

    I kept trying to “make it work,” but deep down I knew…

    This wasn’t the setup my wreaths deserved.

    The Pivot That Changed Everything

    So I did something a little unconventional.

    I bought a brand new 36-inch door.

    Not to install…
    but to stage.

    I painted it, styled it, and leaned it against an east-facing wall outside my sunroom.

    And just like that—I had something I never had before:

    ✨ Consistent, soft morning light
    ✨ A full-size door that fits larger wreaths beautifully
    ✨ A controlled, repeatable photography setup

    No harsh lines.
    No guessing.
    No fighting the sun.

    Why This Works So Well

    This setup solved more than just lighting—it elevated everything about how my wreaths are presented.

    Here’s what made the biggest difference:

    1. East-Facing Light is Your Best Friend

    Morning light is softer, more even, and far more flattering than harsh afternoon sun.

    2. A 36” Door Gives Breathing Room

    My larger wreaths finally look proportional and high-end instead of crowded.

    3. Neutral = Timeless

    The simple painted door keeps the focus where it belongs—on the wreath.

    4. It’s Repeatable

    This might be my favorite part.

    I can now walk outside, hang a wreath, and know I’m going to get a good shot.

    And when you’re running a small handmade business—especially on days when energy is limited—that kind of reliability matters more than anything.

    A Little Honest Reflection

    I’ll be honest—there was a moment where I thought:

    “Am I really buying a door… just to lean it against a wall?”

    But this is one of those times where doing something a little different made all the difference.

    Because this isn’t just about taking pictures.

    It’s about:

    • showing your work in its best light
    • creating a consistent brand
    • and making your products look as beautiful online as they do in real life

    And for me, that’s worth it.

    If You’re Struggling With Product Photos…

    Let me just say this—if your photos aren’t working, it might not be your product.

    It might be your light.

    Before you second guess your design…
    try changing your setup.

    Sometimes the smallest shift (or in my case… a whole door 😄)
    can completely change the outcome.