Tis the season for wreaths. They have a long history dating back to ancient Egypt and can mean many things, like protection and honor and hope and joy. They have always symbolized the bounty and beauty of nature. For us, in these modern times, they most often say Welcome!

I do love a welcoming wreath during the holiday season. So in these busy days of decking the halls and doors and rooms, I’ve gathered 12 simply elegant wreaths to inspire and get your creative juices flowing. Many of these wreaths can be made in workshops (do take one if you get the opportunity because you learn and you chat and you have a fine time). You can also use these ideas to help you think of ways to make a ready-made wreath special—adding some texture with another layer of a different kind of greens, adding some fruit or interesting elements like hunting horns, feathers, berries, and vintage finds.

Think creatively about size and shape too. I have always loved a double or triple wreath like the one below by Martha Stewart.

And there is absolutely nothing wrong with a plain wreath—unadorned and beautiful in its pared-down simplicity.

Happy Friday, and enjoy decking the halls!