Christmas Mantels

I always struggle with what to put on my mantle.  I have a traditional fireplace, but it's on a two-story wall so I need larger scale items to fill the space.  I have a mirror off an old dresser that I use for three of the seasons.  For Christmas, it gets dressed up with a red berry wreath.  Besides the wreath, I felt like our Christmas mantle was just ho-hum.

This year, one item I did add to my Christmas decor is a mantle garland.  This one has lights, bulbs, pine cones and greenery all in one. It was definitely what it needed. The greenery and lights make the fireplace a focal point in the room.  It ties in nicely with the kitchen tree that lives right next door.

I kept the black lanterns that I use in the other displays of the year and added the nutcracker's and stocking holders and stockings.  The garland steals the show and really adds to the overall effect.

You can see “Sammy the Snowflake” elf has arrived at the Dowling house for a visit.

My stockings are from Potterybarn and were purchased when the kids were little.  The stocking holders are from Target.

 And it's even better with a fire going and a good book to read!

A reader and friend added her Christmas mantle picture to the blog party.  I am loving all the little items and how they all come together to make a beautiful presentation.  A small tree in a bucket, a log cabin picture, vintage plaid cooler and print of a cup of cocoa.  All these things make the feeling of Christmas come alive.  Thanks for sharing Cally!

There is still time if you have a picture to share!  Fill out the contact form below and attach a picture.  Thanks for participating!

Have a great weekend!

To life feeling like home!

XO,