When it comes to holiday decorating there is nothing better {well maybe the Christmas tree...} that a well dressed mantel. For me anyway. Maybe it's just a manifestation of my lack of a fireplace but there is something so perfect about a festive mantel during the holly jolly season. Whether you go big with decoration or keep it minimal, whether it's only one of many places decorated in your home or the only place the mantel is made for creating a holiday tableaux. During this season I particularly miss not having a fireplace and have even considered going to an architectural salvage warehouse and just buying an old mantel. Crazy, I know but you may think otherwise once you've seen the images below...
The Dala Horses on the mantel are so charming, I may need to find the ones I had as a child...
Keep is classy with green, gold and white.
Display those Christmas Cards!
Go for a wonder in nature and bring some back. But for the love of love please buy some silver polish; a matte patina on silver is alright but allowing your silver to fully tarnish... for shame!
Mercury glass has been very popular this year probably for it's ability to blend effortlessly with either silver or gold. I'm loving the edible touches on this mantel. Not only do they add great pops of color but you can eat the candy canes after the holidays if not during and the cranberry garland can be left outside for hungry birds.
A lovely french country inspired mantel. But let's also focus on the light fixture; I need that in my dressing room hallway.
Are you a city dweller like me who lacks this prime decoration real estate? Stay tuned for my post about how to decorate on a smaller scale but still maximize the holiday cheer.