Herbs: Welcome guests with the invigorating aroma of rosemary by tucking stalks of the herb into a wooden box. Add flair with a few pieces of lavender — its soothing scent will tone down the pungent rosemary. You can also dry herbs by bunching sprigs together, securing them with a rubber band, and hanging them upside down in a dark, dry, and warm area for a couple of weeks. Keep lavender out of direct sunlight to preserve its color.

Citrus Fruits: Combine the jewels of the citrus family — kumquats, clementines, oranges, and limes — to make a pretty, sweet-smelling wreath. Start with a circular piece of florist’s foam, then use wooden florist’s picks to secure large items, such as oranges, first. Continue with smaller fruits. Tie with a thick velvet ribbon. The wreath should look good enough to eat for at least a week.

Peppercorns and More: Fill clear glass vessels with figs, peppercorns, pomegranates, and Champagne or Concord grapes. Whole peppercorns will last naturally for months; pomegranates, a week; and figs and grapes, just a few days.

More Ideas

Throw a few dried mint leaves into a roaring fire for some instant herbal essence.

Don’t forget the vegetables. Arrange Chinese eggplants, Brussels sprouts, and jalapeño peppers in a beautiful bowl.