The fireplace is the centerpiece of many home’s holiday décor. This year, help your design pop even more with these fun mantel decorating ideas!
Above the mantel.
Most of us have something hanging above our mantel year-round. Whether you have a mirror, artwork, or even a flat screen, consider removing it for the month of December. A large, festive wreath will immediately draw your eye to the fireplace and make it the centerpiece of the room. To avoid overdoing the greenery, try an eye-popping berry wreath. This versatile piece can fit in with holiday décor styles ranging from rustic to simplistic, without feeling overdone. In addition, set your above-the-mantel décor apart by looking for a unique shaped wreath. This could be a large star made of marquee lights, a peace sign made out of ornaments, or rustic wooden snowflakes.
Atop the mantel.
One of the most popular holiday mantel decorations is garland. Christmas garland can be easily incorporated into the photos or candles that are already on your mantel. Also, it can be designed to coordinate with special seasonal décor. A Christmas scarf with a scalloped edge can also add a fun and festive covering atop a mantel.
Looking for garland alternatives? You’re only limited by your imagination! Mason jars filled with bright berries, pine cones, or strings of paper stars can all be used in place of garland. Wanting a minimalist look? Try a single string of ornaments or variety of red and green cocktail glasses. Even paintings offering modern art interpretations of a Christmas tree will impress!
Below the mantel.
While stockings can be hung by the chimney with care, they aren’t the only below the mantel décor options! Hanging icicle lights, ornaments, or under draped greenery is a goof idea. Plus, advent calendars can all be hung below the mantel to round out your fireplace holiday décor.
Safety first!
Decorating your mantel is a great way to prepare your home for the holidays. However, don’t forget safety when using your fireplace! Remove any hanging décor before any fires are started. This prevents stray sparks and embers from igniting your décor causing an accidental fire. Likewise, all furnishings and decorations should be kept at least three feet away from the fireplace.
The risk of a candle fire is four times high in December. In fact, four of the five top dangerous days for candle fires are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. Keep space between your candles and anything flammable. This includes trees, garlands, and other décor. If candles are a part of your mantel or holiday décor, opt for electric candles whenever possible. This is especially important if they are going to be lit for long periods of time.
The holidays are a wonderful time of year to spend quality time with family, friends, and neighbors. These festive decorating and safety ideas will keep your home beautiful this holiday season. Need more ideas on how to make your fireplace even more festive? Contact the experts at Coopertown Services for all your fireplace and safety questions!