The Advent wreath has always been a tradition in our family. Each year my mother would assemble the wreath on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. Two key characteristics of the wreath included evergreen branches and four red candles. It was a special privilege for my brothers and I to have the honor of lighting a candle each week. Curious, I decided to do some research on the origin of the Advent wreath.
The Advent wreath is a Christian tradition that many believe originated in Germany. Advent is derived from a Latin word ‘adventus’ meaning ‘arrival’ or ‘coming’. Four candles symbolize the passage of the four weeks of Advent on the liturgical calendar leading up to the birth of Jesus on Christmas. The evergreen surrounding the circular wreath represents eternity of life.
The color of the candles on an Advent wreath can vary depending upon traditions in a family or culture. Growing up, our Advent wreath always had four red candles based upon my mother’s German heritage. In the US, it is typical for a Christian Church to have an Advent wreath with 3 purple candles and 1 pink. Pink represents “joy” while the purple represent hope, love, and peace.
A modern twist
For many years (more than I want to count), I have assembled a traditional Advent Wreath. Some years with red candles and other years with purple and pink candles. However, I must admit that I am drawn to the red candles. This year I wanted to do something different while still honoring the tradition. What follows are the directions to make a super simple, DIY modern Advent wreath.
Supplies needed
Here ware the materials I recommend for making this Advent wreath. The beauty is that you can modify based upon what you have on hand.
- Four candles. I used two tapper candles and two pillar candles.
- Four candle holders that can accommodate the style of candles used
- A square wooden tray
- Holiday greenery and red accents
- Small red and gold ornaments
Assemble Wreath
Here are the directions on how to assemble this DIY modern Advent wreath.
Step 1: Place candle holders
Place the four candle holders on the wooden tray. I chose a variety of candleholders including two crystal holders and two pillar holders. Alternate the tapper and pillar candles in a circle in the center of the wooden tray. I found this wooden tray at a local furniture store and was struck by the beauty of the inlaid gold. While this beauty will be covered up with candles and greenery, what a nice addition it will make to our home after the holidays.
Step 2: Add candles
Place the candles in the holders. Make sure the candles are secure within the holder. What makes this piece unique is the various height and dimensions of the candles. Look for dripless candles.
Step 3: Add accent pieces
Holly Berries 
Rosehips
Start layering the holiday greenery and red accent pieces around the candles with the stems facing toward the center of the circle of candle holders. Let the pieces trail over the sides of the wooden tray. Tip: for the greenery, I purchased one stem of greenery from our local craft store. Next, I cut off each of the stems to arrive at three individual pieces. For the red accent pieces, I used rosehips and holly berries.
Step 4: Finishing touches
Place the small red and gold ornaments around the tray to cover both empty spaces and the stems of the greenery and red accent pieces. So pretty.
That’s all there is to creating this super easy DIY modern Advent wreath.
Safety first
Please remember to take precautions when using candles. Follow these safety guidelines:
- Trim wick to 1/4″ each time before lighting.
- Do not place any objects near the candles that could catch fire.
- Avoid drafty areas.
- Never burn a candle completely; dispose of it when it burns to within 2″ of its holder.
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Keep out of reach of children.
For more ideas on how to make other holiday decorations, see the links below.
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