A Helpful How-To on Decorating the Mantel for the Holidays

Fireplace mantel can be one of the most enjoyable spots to decorate for the holiday season. They naturally draw the eye as a centerpiece to a space, and the structure itself just lends itself beautifully to a lush garland. Whether you like it simple or over the top, we're sharing our favorite tips for decorating the mantel for the holidays.

Work in Layers

Layering garlands is a simple trick with a big payoff. Stacking a garland that has a draped effect with something a little fuller is the easiest way to add detail and dimension. Incorporate different textures by mixing garland styles, too. If you like a little sparkle, look for pre-lit garlands or weave in a some light yourself with a battery-powered LED strand. Make things super easy with a decorated garland, like the ornament ball pine garland in our holiday shop (currently on sale!).

While a centered garland is pretty classic, there's something to be said about going off-center. If your mantel has an extension off the wall, try draping a garland across the mantle and all the way to the ground on one side for a waterfall effect that's a total showstopper!

Complement Your Tree

Whether or not your tree is in the same room as your mantel, making these elements complementary adds a pleasing sense of symmetry and keep things cohesive. So take your cue from your tree. If it's pine, opt for at least one pine garland. If your tree is flocked, work in a few flocked details into your mantel presentation. Love natural details like dried orange slices, berry sprays or pinecones? Include them in the mantle! We have a great selection of sprays, picks and branches in the holiday shop that can be added to garlands and trees for just the right effect. We love adding unexpected pieces like magnolia leaf picks or flocked eucalyptus stems. 

Think Beyond the Garland

Once the mantel is in place, step back and assess. Tuck in details here and there, like a trio of flameless candles (on sale in the holiday shop right now!) or stocking holders for the big night.

If you're not a fan of garlands, use your mantle to showcase some of your favorite decor pieces. These antiqued gold metal stars feel festive but can be restrained if you like a lower-key effect. You can even dress up a mantel by simply mixing in a few mini trees in different colors and textures or these glittered pinecones to your current display.

The Takeaway

Not sure where to begin, even with these tips? Find an inspiration photo and follow along! The more time you spend decorating, the easier and more it gets. So have fun with your holiday mantel and all the decorating that awaits in 2024!