If you have a mantel, do you do anything special to decorate for Christmas? Do you go all out or keep it simple? I have a few things that stay up all year round, like the large architectural photo taken in Newport, Rhode Island. I also keep my milk glass hobnail candlesticks up all year with the silver ornamental pieces (actually large Christmas ornaments purchased from Hobby Lobby). The blue mercury glass candlesticks are new for me this year (no longer available, but here is a link to a similar set). My husband found the fireplace screen and surprised me with it a few years ago. I love it! The colors really work with our décor. The lanterns on either side are also new this year, purchased from QVC (sold out as well, I could not find anything similar).
Here is our mantel lit up with all of the lights out. As you can see, the candlesticks' base light up using 2 C batteries. I wasn't so sure I would like them lit, but I think it gives a nice touch when the lights are low.
A small battery operated light was added behind the fireplace screen to showcase the vibrant colors of the screen. We decided to go pretty neutral in our living room with bits of turquoise scattered throughout. I find neutral colors to be so calming.
My milk glass hobnail candlestick sets came from a local antique store. I have had them for years. I added cedar rings to the candlesticks for a burst of color to the mantel. They are actually napkin rings purchased from Target. Candle rings are a little pricey so I decided to get a little creative and decided to use the napkin rings. You can purchase 4 from Target for $7.99. The large 3-wick candles came from Bath and Body Works, Fresh Balsam which we also burned at our wedding. They smell amazing. They are sold out, but here is a link to all of their Christmas candles. Personally, I think they are the best scented candles and your whole home will smell great.
Here is the same photo with the lights on, where the cedar greenery is more visible. There are those large diamonds from our wedding again. I really do like a little sparkle touch here and there. ✨ If you would like to see how I use this Christmas ornament in the spring, you can find the story here.
You will find a Christmas ornament sitting a top a cedar branch. I find using Christmas ornaments in my decorating is a great way for a higher end look that I can use all year round. They reminded me of feathers and we also used these ornaments at our reception. The gold garland came from At Home, I purchased it after the season was over for $7.99. Love those after Christmas sales!
