That 90's Ranch

Tag: lifestyle

  • 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!