Wreaths have been used in ceremony and celebration for thousands of years. Ancient Romans hung wreaths on their doors during the December celebration of the winter solstice—the shortest day of the year. The word wreath comes from the old English word writhen meaning to twist. With the birth of Christianity, the wreath’s ring shape and evergreen materials symbolize eternity and the eternal rebirth of Christ during the Christmas season. Today, the wreath has become a welcoming symbol on our door, bringing holiday cheer to friends and family visiting during the Christmas season. Melissa Glorieux, owner of Aster B. Flower Farm in Essex, looks to nature for inspiration for her holiday wreaths. She forages grapevine to use as the base and then weaves winterberry, boxwood, smokebush, and sea grass for simple yet evocative designs.
