Becky Barclay Prewitt creates whimsical holiday wreaths in her Galveston studio. Photo by Jennifer Reynolds

This time of year, islander’s coastal Christmas creations are in high demand

When you walk into Becky Barclay Prewitt’s Galveston studio, you’ll find sprinkles of glitter in chairs and on the floor, but that’s all in a day’s work for this former paralegal who has carved out dual careers in the recruiting business and purveyor of holiday-themed wreaths and décor.

This time of year, her decorative creations are in high demand, especially those with a coastal theme.

“I love making beach-themed wreaths,” said Prewitt, who also makes wreaths for sports fans, birthday celebrations, family reunions and just about every popular holiday.

Burlap, spools of ribbon, sand dollars, seashells, starfish, tiny beach chairs and mermaids are either already a part of a finished product or waiting their turn in line. Power drills, wiring, hot-glue gun and eyelets are other tools of the trade.

Becky Barclay Prewitt makes beach-themed holiday wreaths as well as wreaths for any occasion. Photo by Jennifer Reynolds

“I learned how to make these in 2017, so what started out as a hobby has turned into a growing business,” Prewitt said. “I decided to make beach wreaths due to a friend who made me one with an anchor, and I was hooked.”

Today, she makes custom wreaths, and also sells her ready-made line at Galveston locales, including in the gift shop of The Bryan Museum and at the Marketplace at the Peanut Butter Warehouse, as well as online at Etsy and Facebook.

Her holiday beach-themed wreaths are made of mesh metallic ribbon in bright colors of silver, gold, aqua, pink, baby blue, bright green and lavender, touting signs that say: “Seas And Greetings,” “Who Needs Snowflakes When You Have Seashells,” and “NOEL,” with a sand dollar in place of the “O.”

There’s “Joy To The World,” “Have Yourself A Sandy Little Christmas,” “Mermaid Kisses & Starfish Wishes,” and those with nutcracker themes.

Aside from coastal themes, Prewitt also makes wreaths celebrating Hanukkah, and some featuring holiday icons like Santa, gingerbread men, elves, Christmas trees and candy canes. For something with a Texas flair, there’s “Merry Christmas Y’all.”

“I’m always covered in glue and glitter,” Prewitt said. “I love making the beach-themed wreaths, but also enjoy putting together baby shower wreaths and can create just about any theme that someone might want.”

So, what kind of message does a holiday wreath convey?

“It sends a festive, welcoming message, shows your personality and often your sense of humor,” Prewitt said.

Becky Barclay Prewitt works on a Mardi Gras-themed wreath in her Galveston studio. Photo by Jennifer Reynolds

A typical wreath diameter is 26 to 30 inches with prices starting at $65. You can expect a one to two-week turnaround on custom orders, but some can be ready in 24 to 48 hours, she said.

“I teach basic classes on wreath-making at the Peanut Butter Warehouse where prices start at $65 for a one-and-a-half hour lesson, plus you get to leave with your wreath,” she said.

When not making decorative wreaths, Prewitt stays busy as the owner of R. L. Barclay & Associates. She switches hats throughout the day depending on her schedule and timeline.

“I always loved art and did well in art class, but never really focused on it until now,” she said. “I’ve taken a few painting lessons, but making wreaths is my calling. I still take refresher classes and have mentors. I will continue to expand my knowledge, plus it totally relaxes me.”

beckysbeachwreaths.com