Sunday, November 24, 2013

Natural Christmas Mantel 2013



(Thank you to Cozy Little House, Common Ground, Have a Daily Cup of Mrs.Olsen and Dwellings for featuring this post!)
Hi, everyone!  I know that it's not even Thanksgiving yet, but I admit that I've started decorating for Christmas.  I must say that decorating at my shop (which you can see here and here) got me in the mood to begin at home!

I started with the easiest place and a focal point, my mantel.

As always, my goal was to keep it simple, but visually pleasing.

I left the chippy door as a 'backdrop' but turned it back around to its' whiter side. (To see my fall mantel go here.)

This year I decided to add more color (gasp) into my holiday decor while still using a lot of neutral, natural elements.

I thought this berry wreath was fun and gave a nice pop of color against the white, so I started by hanging it on the door...




Next I gathered 3 little tarnished sugar bowls from my collection and added a pinecone to each one...




Then I hung a small 'banner'...




It's just a little paper one stamped with 'NOEL' on a humble string, but I love its simplicity...





I finished everything off with an urn on either side of the door.  My mom found these for me a couple years ago at a garage sale, and I love them!




They're filled with greenery, pinecones, berries and sticks......nature's finest!




So after marrying together some of my favorite elements and textures-chippy wood, tarnished silver, and gifts from nature-here's the final result...




I kept it very simple but (hopefully) interesting.





Hope you enjoyed seeing my mantel 'dressed up' for Christmas!




I always appreciate you stopping by!  Have a Happy, Blessed Thanksgiving  :)

I'm sharing at these wonderful blogs:  i should be mopping the floor
                                                        Dwellings (Amaze Me Monday)
                                                        Coastal Charm (Nifty Thrifty Tuesday)
                                                        A Stroll Thru Life (Inspire Me Tuesday)
                                                        Cozy Little House (Tweak It Tuesday)
                                                        Knick of Time (Vintage Inspiration Party)
                                                        White Lace Cottage (The Scoop)
                                                        Savvy Southern Style (Wow Us Wednesdays)
                                                        Ivy and Elephants (What's It Wednesday)
                                                        Have a Daily Cup of Mrs.Olsen (Share Your Cup Thursday)
                                                        Common Ground (Be Inspired)
                                                        Shabby Art Boutique (Shabbilicious Friday)
                                                        From My Front Porch To Yours (Christmas Mantel Party)
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66 comments:

  1. My Garden DiariesNovember 24, 2013 at 12:54 AM

    Pure Gorgeous friend! The colors and forms of your arrangement are stunning! I too have started decorating!! It takes so much time that I like to have time to enjoy it!! Great work on your mantel!!

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  2. Meredith @ The Laundry Can WaitNovember 24, 2013 at 1:56 AM

    It's as if you dressed up your mantel in red lipstick for the Christmas occasion. :) The red also lends a bit of dimension. How pretty it is!

    And the banner...I'm in love! XOXO

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  3. Jeanette@Creating a Life StudioNovember 24, 2013 at 2:35 AM

    So pretty, Susan! That door is always the perfect backdrop. The pop of red is so festive! Of course I love the natural elements with the aged silver, and the little banner is just so sweet. I'm working on a few simple touches, too. Finally threw away the pumpkins today : )

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  4. Mary@mydogsmygardenandmaryNovember 24, 2013 at 3:47 AM

    Susan, your mantle is very pretty and red makes it pop. I like all the natural elements that you used. I have my Christmas boxes sitting in the living waiting to be used.
    Have a great week.
    Mary

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  5. Edie Marie's AtticNovember 24, 2013 at 6:00 AM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

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  6. Creations by Marie Antoinette and Edie MarieNovember 24, 2013 at 6:04 AM

    I love what you do Susan! Your mantle looks so inviting and festive. I've always loved the red berry wreaths and it is wonderful with your sweet worn treasures!

    Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours, Edie Marie

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  7. Irene Helms DesignsNovember 24, 2013 at 6:21 AM

    Absolutely awesome mantel! I'm inspired to start my own Christmas decorating which I haven't started yet.
    Irene

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  8. LindaNovember 24, 2013 at 6:49 AM

    Love that red wreath and simple garland!!!
    Hugs,
    Linda at Beautiful Ideas

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  9. Adela mariaNovember 24, 2013 at 7:09 AM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

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  10. Adela mariaNovember 24, 2013 at 7:13 AM

    precioso conjunto ! la plata envejecida, la corona , el banderín un encanto todo y el postigo descascarado atrás lo copio ! saludos

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  11. Carlene @ Organized ClutterNovember 24, 2013 at 8:11 AM

    I love this, Susan. It all came together so well.

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  12. DawnNovember 24, 2013 at 8:41 AM

    It's just. Beautiful and I agree simple is best.

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  13. Kathy @ Creative Home ExpressionsNovember 24, 2013 at 9:12 AM

    Love the look, Susan! It is simple but Christmasy. Love the urns and the berry wreath.

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  14. UnknownNovember 24, 2013 at 10:12 AM

    very pretty! LOVE the banner! Simple is best!!

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  15. Debra@CommonGroundNovember 24, 2013 at 10:14 AM

    Love that chippy door with the berry wreath on top!

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  16. Art and SandNovember 24, 2013 at 11:29 AM

    Everything is lovely. It makes me want to get started on Christmas decor, but I still haven't figured out what dishes to use for Thanksgiving.

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  17. Janet- OPEN MARKET STYLENovember 24, 2013 at 11:54 AM

    Your mantel looks wonderful !!

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  18. pballardNovember 24, 2013 at 12:19 PM

    That backdrop reminds me of the little gate I just picked up this last week. I love what you did with it. I love those tarnished sugar bowls, and that banner is so cute. Have a great day!

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  19. JunkchiccottageNovember 24, 2013 at 1:23 PM

    Susan,
    Just gorgeous. I love the simplicity but what a statement that mantel makes. Too pretty. You really know how to do a beautiful vignette. This is is exceptional. I love it against the old chippy door. Just beautiful.
    Kris

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  20. LenaNovember 24, 2013 at 3:09 PM

    So pretty!

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  21. UnknownNovember 24, 2013 at 3:29 PM

    Amazing and beautiful! I love the natural elements, and the red is just the right pop of color! Beautifully done!

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  22. chateau chicNovember 24, 2013 at 3:46 PM

    Your mantel is stunning, Susan!! Love the chippy white backdrop with the red wreath! The little noel banner is perfect under the tarnished silver sugar bowls. LOVE it!!!
    Mary Alice

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  23. Pam KesslerNovember 24, 2013 at 3:50 PM

    OK, so I almost feinted when I saw the red :) But I love it. Christmas is the one time of year that I allow myself to go all wild and crazy.

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  24. AmandaNovember 24, 2013 at 5:23 PM

    Gorgeous mantel, the red is so vibrant

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  25. MimiNovember 24, 2013 at 5:33 PM

    That is just stunning! So simple and welcoming and festive all at the same time! I have silver sugar bowls, and will be borrowing your idea for sure...xxx

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  26. camp and cottage livingNovember 24, 2013 at 5:43 PM

    The touch of red really make the whole vignette pop!
    I see you have a wood insert to keep you warm this winter-yeah.

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  27. UnknownNovember 24, 2013 at 6:46 PM

    PeRfEcTiOn!!!

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  28. Donna WilkesNovember 24, 2013 at 7:20 PM

    Pinecones in sugar bowls - simple and classic!

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  29. OliveNovember 24, 2013 at 8:59 PM

    Hi Susan, you know I love that chippy wood up there. Thanks so much for the follow. I followed back. Thanksgiving is late this year so you are on schedule as far as I can see. I actually feel a little bit behind. I have been lashing Donna's trees to old toy trucks today though which was fun. xo, olive

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  30. NanaDianaNovember 24, 2013 at 9:01 PM

    Susan, It looks just lovely. I really like the way it is arranged and I like things that are symmetrical...the urns are gorgeous! I hope you had a wonderful weekend. I won't start decorating until the day after Christmas- xo Diana

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  31. Daniela @Frugal Aint CheapNovember 24, 2013 at 9:37 PM

    color is becoming your friend...lol. I think some color as focal point (aka on the mantel), really works well with a mainly neutral palette. Very pretty

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  32. AnonymousNovember 24, 2013 at 9:49 PM

    Love the red berry wreath for a pop of color and the natural elements are perfect on your mantel. Beautiful!!

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  33. MarlynneNovember 24, 2013 at 10:35 PM

    Oh! I do like your mantel! So striking!

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  34. Sharon @ mrshinesclassNovember 24, 2013 at 10:38 PM

    I love all of the natural elements!

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  35. UnknownNovember 24, 2013 at 10:47 PM

    Oh my goodness everything is so beautiful, love it!! xo

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  36. DewenaNovember 25, 2013 at 12:12 AM

    It's so beautiful! I love the zingy red against that flaky white painted wood. And the pewter sugar bowls holding a pinecone.

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  37. cynthia lee designsNovember 25, 2013 at 12:52 AM

    Love your Christmas mantel...so pretty. I hope to start decorating tomorrow. I want to have it done before my big Christmas Show gets here on Friday. It is a 3 day show and I'm usually wore out after it is over.
    ~Cindy

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  38. Rose LNovember 25, 2013 at 2:26 AM

    Nice!! I have seen a Callicarpa--beauty berry--and would love to make a wreath with those branches of purple!

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  39. JoAnn SweetPepperRoseNovember 25, 2013 at 7:18 AM

    Very pretty and simple, and those are the best! I have only one of those urns from a yard sale, in a cream color - I many have to paint it darker as I like yours better than mine ;-)

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  40. Katie MansfieldNovember 25, 2013 at 8:12 AM

    You are right. Simple and beautiful. I love the texture of the door and the banner together.

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  41. sweetvintageofmineNovember 25, 2013 at 8:28 AM

    Morning Susan, I love a natural mantle for the Holidays! That has always been my favorite! Your pop of red is striking! And the urns.....love urns on the mantle!! Have a Blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving~~~Roxie

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  42. ReviNovember 25, 2013 at 12:18 PM

    It looks great, and still so YOU! Love the pop of red.
    -Revi

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  43. CynthiaNovember 25, 2013 at 3:16 PM

    Susan, I am telling you have the best elves. What a great job on this mantel! Love the urns and the wreath.

    Cynthia

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  44. farmhouse-storyNovember 25, 2013 at 4:52 PM

    the red wreath against the chippy background is fabulous, susan! have a great thanksgiving!

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  45. Christine at Little BragsNovember 25, 2013 at 5:14 PM

    simply beautiful !!!

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  46. Betsy@My Salvaged TreasuresNovember 25, 2013 at 8:26 PM

    Love it! I see so many of my favorite things too. I'd have a hard time taking this down after the holidays.

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  47. Jacqueline~Cabin and CottageNovember 25, 2013 at 9:57 PM

    I seem do something a little different every year. It's part of the fun! Love your punch of color, and always love the vintage vibe.

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  48. Veronica RothNovember 25, 2013 at 10:10 PM

    That is very pretty. I love hints of red and especially in my home. I have huge and heavy red velvet curtains in my house, so maybe "hint" is not the right word...lol. :)

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  49. UnknownNovember 25, 2013 at 10:18 PM

    Love it! The chippy door is the perfect backdrop.

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  50. Shirley@Housepitality DesignsNovember 25, 2013 at 10:46 PM

    Just love everything about the mantel….from the chippy wood, to the silver and pinecones and then there is that pop of red!…gorgeous!…Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!

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  51. Laurel@ChippingwithCharmNovember 26, 2013 at 9:02 AM

    Simply perfect...I love it! The pinecones in the silver pieces are super fun :)

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  52. Magali@TheLittleWhiteHouseNovember 26, 2013 at 11:53 AM

    Your mantel's simplicity is what makes it perfect.

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  53. UnknownNovember 26, 2013 at 12:56 PM

    Such creative and wonderful features.. I LOVE your garland.. So pretty : )) I really HEART these.. Wishing you a great start to your week..

    Prasad
    Christmas decorations

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  54. Marty@A Stroll Thru LifeNovember 26, 2013 at 2:58 PM

    Oh I love your mantel, so simple, chic and just perfect. Thanks so much for linking to Inspire Me and I hope you and your family have a very Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving. Hugs, marty

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  55. ℳartina @ Northern NestingNovember 26, 2013 at 11:38 PM

    love love love it Susan!!

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  56. Vickie @ Ranger 911November 27, 2013 at 5:40 PM

    I love the natural elements you've incorporated into your decorating, Susan. And your chippy door was the perfect place to start! I'm going to try mine on the mantel now that I've seen how nice yours looks. Thanks for the great idea!

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  57. UnknownNovember 27, 2013 at 11:06 PM

    Lovely!

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  58. Ivy and ElephantsNovember 28, 2013 at 4:50 PM

    Your natural mantel is just perfect, Susan. Love the door there.
    I hope you have a happy and blessed Thanksgiving.
    Hugs,
    Patti

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  59. Burlap LuxeNovember 29, 2013 at 4:23 PM

    Hi Susan,
    Thank you dearly for your Giving of Thanks visit to m'y place.
    With m'y return to you I see a lot that inspires me, I am in love with the mantel backdrop of old chippy-ness of wood giving you a piece to hang your wreath rather then just a hook from the wall.
    As well as the silver sugar bowls as a place to display winters pine cones. All so inspiring and in person I know there is the holiday spirit filling the room with music.

    Thank you sweet friend for a beautiful year of visits and more to come.

    See you soon with I am sure more beauty that inspires us from you and your home.

    Xx
    Doré

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  60. Cathy @ My 1929 CharmerNovember 29, 2013 at 8:51 PM

    I love it Susan, but then I love everything you do. Love the pop of red against the white and silver. So sorry its been a while since I've visitd but its been a long hard surgery back for me since surgery.

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  61. Cindy @ Dwellings-The Heart of Your HomeDecember 1, 2013 at 2:19 PM

    Simply beautiful Susan! Thanks so much for sharing at AMAZE ME MONDAY! You're being featured!
    Blessings,
    Cindy

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  62. Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. OlsonDecember 3, 2013 at 10:33 PM

    Susan, I love it! The chippy door is gorgeous! You know I love the pop of red. I just put three in clay pots on my mantel today. Love your tarnished creamers. I only have one. Beautiful as usual! Thanks for sharing with SYC.
    hugs,
    Jann

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  63. Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. OlsonDecember 4, 2013 at 12:05 PM

    Hi Susan, featuring you at SYC today. Also, I will send you your code for the party tomorrow. Wanted to make sure it was working. Had trouble getting mine for SYC last week. Hopefully all goes well this week.
    hugs,
    Jann

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  64. NancyDecember 5, 2013 at 6:52 PM

    I just love this, Susan. Very pleasing. That pop of red really makes it special. Pine cones in tarnished sugar bowls? Brilliant. Love the banner, the chippy door, and the urns filled with nature finds. Great job!

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  65. PamelaDecember 15, 2013 at 1:40 PM

    Oh Susan this is wonderful! I think a lot of us have gone more simple this year. Not only does it look great but so easy to take down!:) Thanx for joining my mantel party!

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  66. AnnMarie aka Vintage Junkie aka NaNaDecember 18, 2013 at 2:49 PM

    I love the simplicity of your mantel and it is perfect with the pop of color on the wreath! So pretty! Visiting from the Christmas Mantel party!

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