On the 4th day of Christmas…Time to decorate the mantle!

Now that the tree  has been decorated, and all the lights are finally working, it’s time to decorate the mantle.   First needed is a theme.   I love to decorate the mantles of my clients.  I start by the color of the ribbon, then look for ornaments and other items that will support their theme.   If there are children in the home, a more festive, fun look is often called for, adding in elves, candy canes, and a bit of whimsy.

Clubhouse mantle...ready for the visit with Santa
A photographer, Santa on his way, kids all lined up for the pictures....this mantle is ready.

Recently, clients have chosen to place their tv over their mantle instead of the traditional art.   This particular mantle showcases the tv, framed by picture frame molding, and much-loved stockings, hung with care…..

Mantle hosting a tv over top, framed by picture molding, decorated with traditional stockings, and red/green ribbon.
Framed tv over the mantle

Televisions seem to take center stage in homes now….and we adapt and decorate around them.

"Grinch" trees frame the sides of the tv on this whimsical mantle.
Whimsy on a mantle

We are often asked how do we get the garland to stay on a stone fireplace….easy answer…we wrap heavy wire all around the mantle, long ways, then attach the garland to the wire.

Televisions are not to be ignored at Christmas time

The garland and all the secrets that go into the garland mantle cover up all that wire, and it is held very securely.

Charleston themed decorations  are popular again, using traditional items like flowers, magnolia fruit and natural product.  One of the trends this year is burlap.   Add this to the mix of natural product, embroidered burlap adds a truly beautiful touch to this mantle.

Burlap embroidered ribbon on a mantle along with flowers, fruits and traditional greenery
Burlap embroidered ribbon enhances this traditionally decorated mantle

Outdoor fireplaces truly are special to me.  Who can resist the hot chocolate and inevitable marshmallows that  roast beside these special fireplaces.   Seems that we linger a little bit longer with the kids…..We can’t resist decorating them, too.

Time for the marshmallows!