The wreath is actually a symbol that represents the Wheel of the Year or the Cycle of Life. Just like a wedding ring or a ritual circle, it has no beginning and no end.
Many archeologists believe that wreaths have been used for at least 4,000 years. They indicate a coming back to the beginning and starting over again, and doing this over and over again.
Wreaths can easily be made out of materials you find in nature. Again, the greenery from evergreen trees symbolize the Goddess and pine cones can be used to symbolize the God. Fruits such as apples and pears represent the fertilization of their union, as well as that of the Earth.
These days nice inventions such as florists’ wire and twist ties can help hold the wreath together more easily (I’m practical, what do you want from me?). You can also use velvet or other ribbons and bows to add color and pizazz. Grapes and holly can also add interesting dimension and texture.
If you want to create your own wreath that will last for years to come, you will have to treat it with shellac or varnish to keep the pine cones and other materials from rotting. Otherwise, you may wish to disassemble your wreath at the end of the season and offer it back to the Earth and to the Gods.
In Germany Frau Holde is believed to ride in a sleigh on Yule Eve, carrying gifts of gold to her followers (she is the ancient Goddess but has been demoted to a witch-woman). She especially loved those who spin cloth (the spinning wheel is symbolic of the Wheel of the Year, and is considered sacred in many traditions). On this night, people cannot use anything circular and must walk or travel by sleigh because the wheel is preserved for Frau Holde.
When doing some research on this, I also ran across some Wreath desserts! Who knew? Here’s the LINK to one such recipe. If you search for “Yule Wreaths” you will come across many different recipes. Enjoy!
Love and Blessings,
Amethyst Mahoney
