Is there a way to add the meta widget in the top left of the header (where the search bar normally would be)? Apologies in advance if this has already been asked, but I searched to no avail before posting. I tried the basic widget tool, but there is no header option. Even when I put it in the inner and outter sidebars, it didn't show. I'm guessing that may be because I'm using a single-column configuration. Any ideas?

add a new widget area to the header and put it in there, then position the widget area where you want it

Wow, thanks for the speedy reply! Sorry if this is a juvenile question (I'm still learning) but does this require code? I've tried searching the theme backend and wordpress options but couldn't figure out how to add a new widget area to the header, let alone position it.

did you look at ato->Add new WIDGET AREAS?