A Guide to Christmas Mantel Decorating Ideas
Christmas is almost here again, which means it’s time to start thinking about decorations. But what to do? There are dozens of decoration types, including wreaths, lights, garland, and of course, stockings. And there are almost as many themes to organize those pretty props to make a mantel shine as brightly as the ever-popular Christmas tree. So, here’s a simple guide to help with the decision of what works together, for any mantel.

Country Theme
Photo: Confessions of a Plate Addict
Photo: The Silly Girl's Life
Photo: Everyday Home Blog
Vintage Theme
Photo: From My Front Porch to Yours
Photo: Town and Country Living
White Christmas Theme
If the theme of this popular Christmas song is what you want, it's quite easy to come by. " are sold wherever other decorations can be found. A few colored balls or candles can break up the white a bit, and some white LED lights can make it shine like a snowy dream. Photo: The Wow Style
Photo: Centsational Girl
Non-traditional Colored Theme
Perhaps the traditional red and green Christmas is not a favorite. It is simple to replace those colors with whatever you choose. Perhaps a pink-dressed Santa, pink candles, pink Christmas balls adorning a green wreath and garland. Even pink ribbons and a pink hand-lettered sign wishing guests a Merry Christmas. Decorations come in all colors now and can be used to suit the whims of those doing the decorating. Or if pink is not your color, replace it with purple, blue, or any other color that tickles the fancy. Photo: Four Generations One Roof
Modern Theme
These days, the world has become somewhat more non-traditional, and not just in the colors we choose. Some prefer to step outside the box on all their Christmas decorations. If this is the case, adorning the mantel with a garland with golden lights may be a more modern replacement that the soft white or flashy colors used in the past. Photo: Decor Girl
Photo: Fresh Home
Photo: Fresh Home
The Simple Theme
Decorating is not everyone’s strong suit. For those who favor simplicity, a simple garland, whether natural greenery or a more colorful variety, can be hung or draped over a mantle quite easily. A string of lights, again in whatever the decorator prefers, will add a bit of sparkle.
A pinecone wreath, or even one made from those often seen Christmas balls that usually adorn a tree, is easily hung over the mantle. And if sentiment is more something that adds more feeling than the candles or Santa’s in other themes, a few letters or words on a piece of wood can complete the look desired. And of course, don’t forget the stockings.
Photo: Stonegable