The mention of a wreath usually brings to mind Christmas.
In reality, wreaths were first used in the historical cultures of Persia.
At that time, they were known as "diadems" and signified the status of nobility.
These first wreaths were made of cloth or wire.
Decorated with jewels, the wreaths were worn on the head.
Not to be outdone, the Ancient Greece and Roman Empires started making their own version of wreaths.
They used laurel leaves or twigs and the Laurel Wreath was born.
These first Laurel Wreaths were awarded to superior athletes and scholars.
And today? The laurel wreath is seen on the Olympic medals!But it doesn't stop there.
You can find the laurel wreath at weddings, on coins, on peace symbols and at funerals.
Why? The laurel wreath symbolizes eternity and, true to its name, lives on.
Another "oldie" is the Advent wreath.
There has been some controversy over the first Advent Wreath.
One school of thought indicates that it was a symbol for the eternal cycle of seasons used in northern Europe long before the arrival of Christianity.
Others believe that the Advent Wreath was first used in the Middle Ages.
At some point, the Advent Wreath was used as a Christian symbol.
Again, there is debate over the re-invention of the Advent Wreath.
One group says it started in Germany during the 16th century.
Others are convinced that it started in the 19th century in Germany.
No matter where and when it started, the Advent Wreath is very much a part of Christian tradition.
At Christmas, it symbolizes immortality of Christians.
Wreaths have become a year round decorative item.
They are used inside and outside.
Some are made from living plants and flowers, others from artificial flowers or greenery.
Some are very simple and some are sleek and sophisticated.
Wreaths of today are the product of creative artistic minds.
They can be found on doors, walls, windows tables and fireplaces.
While many of the creative artistic types prefer to make their own individual wreaths from scratch, there is also a wide variety of beautiful ready-made wreaths available for purchase.
And, for the "middle of the road" people, there are craft kits with supplies and step by step instructions.
Taking the creative approach not only provides great personal satisfaction, it is definitely cost effective.
Some of the beautiful ready made wreaths are very pricey.
And, it's always great to finish a wreath and know that it is uniquely yours.
Wreaths make wonderful gifts and can really be personalized for that special someone.
During this difficult economy, it is the perfect time to learn to make a wreath for your own home or as a gift for someone special.
You'll save money and make a brighter day for a special someone.
In reality, wreaths were first used in the historical cultures of Persia.
At that time, they were known as "diadems" and signified the status of nobility.
These first wreaths were made of cloth or wire.
Decorated with jewels, the wreaths were worn on the head.
Not to be outdone, the Ancient Greece and Roman Empires started making their own version of wreaths.
They used laurel leaves or twigs and the Laurel Wreath was born.
These first Laurel Wreaths were awarded to superior athletes and scholars.
And today? The laurel wreath is seen on the Olympic medals!But it doesn't stop there.
You can find the laurel wreath at weddings, on coins, on peace symbols and at funerals.
Why? The laurel wreath symbolizes eternity and, true to its name, lives on.
Another "oldie" is the Advent wreath.
There has been some controversy over the first Advent Wreath.
One school of thought indicates that it was a symbol for the eternal cycle of seasons used in northern Europe long before the arrival of Christianity.
Others believe that the Advent Wreath was first used in the Middle Ages.
At some point, the Advent Wreath was used as a Christian symbol.
Again, there is debate over the re-invention of the Advent Wreath.
One group says it started in Germany during the 16th century.
Others are convinced that it started in the 19th century in Germany.
No matter where and when it started, the Advent Wreath is very much a part of Christian tradition.
At Christmas, it symbolizes immortality of Christians.
Wreaths have become a year round decorative item.
They are used inside and outside.
Some are made from living plants and flowers, others from artificial flowers or greenery.
Some are very simple and some are sleek and sophisticated.
Wreaths of today are the product of creative artistic minds.
They can be found on doors, walls, windows tables and fireplaces.
While many of the creative artistic types prefer to make their own individual wreaths from scratch, there is also a wide variety of beautiful ready-made wreaths available for purchase.
And, for the "middle of the road" people, there are craft kits with supplies and step by step instructions.
Taking the creative approach not only provides great personal satisfaction, it is definitely cost effective.
Some of the beautiful ready made wreaths are very pricey.
And, it's always great to finish a wreath and know that it is uniquely yours.
Wreaths make wonderful gifts and can really be personalized for that special someone.
During this difficult economy, it is the perfect time to learn to make a wreath for your own home or as a gift for someone special.
You'll save money and make a brighter day for a special someone.