Berry Merry Holiday Mantle

I always have anxiety about my mantle decorating.  It's such a focal point that I don't want to goof it up.  I hoover between too little, too much, too cheesy, too cheap, and too over the top.  This year is the first year in a long time though that I really love the design.  


I like my mantles to be romantic and I almost always include candles to help achieve this effect.  On this mantle I used 2 clear glass hurricanes secretly propped up on little bowls for height.  I bought the hurricanes at Walmart a few years ago for less than $5 each.  On the left and right ends I used clear glass pillar candle holders that I already had in the cupboard.  I like the clear glass because it allows the rest of the elements to draw your attention.

Behind the candles are my Pottery Barn vintage tin tiles.  They came in a set of 3 but it seemed too overcrowded with all 3 up there.  I like the symmetrical look just using the 2 tiles gives the mantle.

Then in front of the candles I placed a faux evergreen swag.  I bought it at Hobby Lobby when they had all their Christmas stuff at 50% off.  It came with the lights and the berries but I thought it need just a little something else so I added the fake crystal ice pick things.  I really like the extra glimmer they give everything.

I still need to work on some accessories for the bottom front sides of the fireplace.  The wood pile is okay but I would love to find a basket or old wooden box that adds more interest or height.  And on the other side I put a Christmas themed square hat box but it really is too small.  I really need a set of 3 of those boxes to give help fill the space.  Maybe I'll get some big red poinsettias for each side.  Anyone have any suggestions?

The only thing I spent money on was the swag which cost me about $35.  Plus since it is faux I figure I can use it for many years to come.  Otherwise I already had all the other elements and the candles in my decorating stash.  

This just about finishes my decorating this year.  I still have a few things to share with you all but I have put away all the excess.  It's time to enjoy and relax.  Well, until I have to start the wrapping - ugh.

~ Gold Shoe Girl ~

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