The art of making wreaths is both ancient and symbolic, dating back to the times of Greece and Rome. The people of the Greco-Roman society would make “wreaths” worn as headdresses to represent occupation, rank, achievements and status. Wreaths made of laurel leaves were used to crown Olympic Game victors. The word “wreath” literally translates to “a thing bound around” from the Greek word diadem. The most commonly recognized wreaths today are derived from the “Advent wreath”, a symbol of strength representing perseverance through the harshness of winter. The Advent wreath is said to date back 1000 years before the birth of Christ. The circle and sphere represent the circle of life and immortality, and the use of evergreen ferns symbolizes the continuance of life through winter. A wreath hung on the front door was used much like an address is used today. Materials, often including exotic flowers, were collected from garden and property and arranged in a unique way for friends and family to identify their relatives.
