Favorite Things: Holiday Mantels

Few things sum up the holiday spirit like a beautifully decorated mantel hung with stockings and lit up by a cozy fire in the fireplace.

Few things sum up the holiday spirit like a beautifully decorated mantel hung with stockings and lit up by a cozy fire in the fireplace.  Mantel decorations can be simple or extravagant.  Mix in different elements with traditional greenery.  You can make it playful and try something different each year.  I like to use real flowers and unusual greenery such as magnolia leaves, nothing artificial, to give the mantel more substance and make it truly special.

1.  This mantel uses white dishes and greenery for a classic, simple look.

2. An abundance of greenery looks fantastic!

3.  I love the idea of hanging a wreath on a mirror over the mantel.

4.  Mixed greenery and fruit create a fresh, lovely mantel.

5. Magnolia leaves make a substantial wreath.  Varying candle heights add interest to the greenery and pine cones.

6.  Sweeping swags of evergreens and a large wreath make the mantel a dramatic focal point.