The mantle I have come to realize is just as important as the tree. We obviously are not only decorating trees in one corner of our homes and leaving the rest a blank canvas. The fireplace, as cozy as it is, deserves a moment to shine.
Before we moved to the house, I did have to make do with a blank wall though. All it took was a little bit of imagination (and some online inspiration) but it turned out.
I did decorate the mantle of course our first year in our home, though I didn’t document the progress as in-depth. (Honestly, I am struggling to find a picture of last year’s look at all). This year I want to be able to share all the details, including process and items used.
We start with the cedar garland. Highly sought after this season. It seems like everyone is selling it, and everyone is buying it out. I was fortunate enough to find a 9’ artificial life-like cedar garland from Marshall’s that was comparable both in look and price to the 5’ version Kirkland’s was selling. I used two garlands to create this look. Fluffing is required of course but this garland is very flexible so you’ll easily be able to get the look you want.
The wood and felt garland was an add in to give the mantle some cozy texture. I actually purchased these garlands last year for our main tree so, I was happy to put them to good use again. I simply wrapped the garland around the cedar leaving slack for some of it to hang. I added four of the wooden garlands to the mantle.
Jingle Bells. Jingle Bell Rock. Carol of the Bells. Christmas Bells. I mean it is clear bells are a staple when it comes to Christmas. Initially when I was thinking about how I wanted to decorate the mantle, I was eyeing those trending oversized antique gold bells that everyone is buying. However, we are in our not overbuying era (or at least trying to be). I used these little bells I purchased last year from Target and hung them from the garland. Little but merry I say.
As you can expect styling a mantle for the holidays is not just garland. It’s those other festive pieces too! Starting with the candles! Yes the fireplace will be lit at some point I’m sure during the season, but candles give off an intimate vibe. The girlies who get it, get it. I picked these up from Kirkland’s and Michael’s, but I did see that Kirkland’s also has the tall tree candles too so you only have to make one stop!
The mantle though is only part of a fireplace. The hearth deserves our attention too. The red brick is nice and pairs well with the green so I added some extra stems (both old and new) to keep the green flowing. Then I threw in a reindeer – which I have had for many years. There are so many options out there now, it was difficult to not pick up something new. Of course, there is more candle lighting, with some added beaded garland wrapped around. An over sized (very sparkly) bottle brush tree. Oh! And a pumpkin that reads ‘Thankful’ to show everyone I am not in fact skipping over Thanksgiving.
Last but most certainly not least, stockings. We have acquired a handful over the years and I’m always drawn to the chunky knit material. It screams cozy. When new baby comes, I am sure next year again I will further consider getting a coordinated set with name tags and the whole bit. However, for now, these are wonderful.
Mantle or no mantle really, I am a firm believer in over decorating – as you can see from even before we owned our home. I am not one to shy away from decorating every surface when it comes to Christmas. So, it is really no surprise I went overboard with our mantle and hearth this year. The mantle though is only part of what I will be decorating in our home this year. You will have to stay tuned for more over decorating.
What do you think of this year’s mantle styling? Or if you don’t have a mantle, where is your go to alternative styling spot? Share in the comments and tell me your must haves too! Maybe they’ll show up next year.
All of the links (if available) for this year’s mantle styling are below. If the link to the original item was not available anymore I grabbed one for a similar option.
Happy Decorating!
SHOP
Cedar Garland – Marshall’s
- Similar option here
Wood and Felt Garland – Target 2022 Season
- Similar option here
Bells – Target 2022 Season
- Similar (gold) option here
Starburst Ornament – Target 2022 Season
- Similar option here
Christmas Tree Truck – Target
Silver Reindeer – Unknown
- Similar (gold) option here
Pillar Candle Holders – Family
- Similar option here
Taper Candle Holders – Kirkland’s
Stockings – Target Past Seasons
- Similar option here
Mini Tree Candles – Kirkland’s
Christmas Tree Candles – Michael’s
Oversized Bottle Brush Tree – Home Goods 2022 Season
- Similar option here
Happily Ever Alcorn 