By Mary Carol Garrity
Tribune News Service
When it comes to decorating your fireplace mantel for the holidays, it seems like people have two perspectives. Some see this long piece of wood as a stage for their masterpiece. But to others, it seems more like a gangplank because decorating this key focal point feels intimidating.
Let me just underscore that decorating should never be stressful. Just the opposite! So to alleviate any mantel mania you may feel, or if you’d like some new tips and techniques for creating a fresh holiday look, here are the three simple steps for success to build seasonal displays on our mantels and chandeliers.
Step 1: Pick the pieces you want to feature
Every year when I pull out my boxes of holiday decor, I feel like I’m unearthing buried treasure. The boxes are packed with my favorite pieces, some of which I’ve used in my holiday decorating for years, others are new additions. Before you dress your mantel, pull out all the items you might want to use in your display, including greenery, ribbons, ornaments and seasonal and year-round accents.
Lay all the ingredients out before you so you can see what you have. As you do, assess your stockpile. Are there accents you no longer love, or that are starting to look dated or tired? If so, let them go. You only want to surround yourself with the things you love.
Is there anything new you’ll need to freshen up your collection? New greens (they only last a few years)? A fun new focal point like an angel, reindeer or Christmas tree? If so, now you have an excuse to go shopping!
Step 2: Decide on a theme
Your mantel and chandelier need to communicate one lovely, focused look, not be a hodgepodge of lots of different themes. If you pull in pieces that don’t fit your theme, it’s like dressing your set for two very different films. It doesn’t work.
I am crazy about birds and natural greens, so I like to pull together displays that look like they are a snapshot from nature. Right now, just about every holiday look is in, from glamorous and regal to whimsical and fun. So the sky is the limit when you pick the theme that works best for you.
Step 3: Layer it up
Everyone has her own LQ (lushness quotient). Some of us like displays that feature layers upon layers of decor. Others of us prefer to decorate with just a few powerful objects that make a strong statement in their simplicity. What is your LQ? Bring that to life through the layers on your mantel and light fixtures.
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