Rooted In Nature

In the Lowcountry, the creep of winter isn't just marked by the crispness in the air—it’s reflected in the natural abundance all around. From the silvery sheen of oyster shells collected along the shoreline at Bulls Bay to the fragrant sprigs of rosemary, pine and magnolia that perfume the air of Charleston’s many neighborhoods, these local treasures offer endless inspiration for creating seasonal wreaths. Blending botanicals, blooms and coastal treasures, these wreaths become more than decoration—they celebrate the timeless beauty of the region, weaving together the salt air, marsh grasses and stories that make Charleston unique.

Charleston Oyster Wreaths

For artisans like Season Smith, using natural materials local to the Lowcountry is simply part of living here. A naturally crafty person, Smith began using oyster shells in wreath-making a decade ago, while bartending at a restaurant with an oyster bar, downtown. “At the time, the Oyster Recycling Program wasn’t nearly as extensive as it is today,” she recalls. “I just couldn’t bear to throw away all the shells, so I began collecting them. Eventually, I made an oyster wreath and fell even more in love with them.”

One wreath turned into more, and soon Charleston Oyster Wreaths was born. “Oysters and oyster shells are synonymous with family, friends and tradition,” says Smith. “I learned a long time ago that oyster roasts have less to do with eating and more to do with connection. They’re a Southern ritual, from picking and steaming to shucking and eating. Likewise, my company is built around customs and Charleston’s natural beauty. Each shell connects us to the Lowcountry. By repurposing them, we not only honor the coastal beauty around us but also do our part to promote sustainability.”

Each Charleston Oyster Wreath is hand-crafted with two layers of Charleston “blade” shells, straight from Bulls Bay and the Ace Basin, and finished with a signature burlap bow. “As a maker, a little bit of my soul goes into each wreath,” says Smith.

“I pray each one truly inspires the person who receives it and connects them to the Lowcountry.” To learn more, go to: charlestonoysterwreaths.com.

Smart Botanic Art

A horticulturist by trade, Sydney Schwiebert’s foray into wreath-making was a natural extension of her passion for all things flowers and plants, combined with her love of art. During her time managing the gardens at Magnolia

Plantation, Schwiebert was tasked with making a fall holiday display at the entrance booth—complete with a huge wreath, which was the jumping point for the wreaths she now makes, using materials she finds on foraging expeditions. “I’m inspired by what I see,” says the artisan, who sells her wares at farmers markets. “I try to harvest from every third plant or branch, only taking what will not be missed. I incorporate things like dried tropical-style flowers, citrus or bird feathers. They can completely change the look of a wreath.”

Schwiebert imbues her holiday wreaths with florals and botanicals from the Lowcountry. “Seasonal changes in the plants themselves always spark ideas,” she says. “The hardiest greenery I use are evergreen plants such as pine, juniper, cedar, wax myrtle and palms. I also love to feature branches with interesting shapes, like bald cypress or ferns and vines. Other textural elements include red nandina berries, grass plumes, seed heads like magnolia or echinacea and, of course, pinecones. By using materials found all over Charleston, I believe my wreaths showcase Charleston flora without being overtly Charleston-themed—unless, of course, that’s the goal!”  Go to: smartbotanicart.com for more information and to learn about her wreath-making workshops.

Wreathmaking at Middleton Place

For anyone who wants to make their very own Lowcountry wreath, Charleston’s historic Middleton Place offers their annual wreath-making class on December 11, from 6 – 8 p.m., led by expert instructor Casey Price of Jeremiah Farm and Goat Dairy. “Guests are guided through creating beautiful, natural holiday wreaths with materials sourced from Middleton Place and Jeremiah Farm,” says Alana Long, marketing and communications manager for the Middleton Place Foundation.

The two-hour class includes everything needed to create a wreath with a bow, as well as wine, cheese and charcuterie to keep crafters fueled. Gloves and garden snips are also available for attendees to use. “This class offers a fun and collaborative atmosphere that you can enjoy with a friend—or you may make friends along the way!” says Long. “All you need is a willingness to be creative.” Get more information at: middletonplace.org/news-and-events/event/fall-workshop-series-wreath-making-workshop.