Fall Mantle Decor – 4 Different Ways

Even though the title of this post says, “Fall Mantle Decor” stay with me. Today I will be highlighting 4 different ways to style a fireplace mantle, but styling an open shelf shares the same principals.

Best Decision Ever!

A few months ago, my husband and I worked together to create a beautiful, custom TV enclosure, and it has proved to be the best decision.  You can catch that post here.

I wanted the custom build to act as the grand focal point above our mantle just as a mirror or piece of art would in place of the TV.  In a recent post titled, “Fall Decorating in the Living Room” I mentioned layering pieces.  I had a vision in mind when conversing over this custom enclosure with Glenn.   For special occasions and gatherings, I now can layer larger decor items against the closed doors creating a grander statement.

If I am being truthful, we actually watch TV a few nights a week, so keeping my fall mantle decor at bay is actually more suited for this space.

Smaller Vignettes, Big Impact

This next example highlights hanging a wreath when the doors are shut, and styling smaller vignettes at a height that will not interfere with the doors opening and closing.  In the case of styling an open shelf, I would still suggest hanging a wreath above it.

This wreath is super simple.  I purchased it last year, and the charm that used to hang in the middle broke off, so I just attached a few scrapbook letters.  The white yarn already makes it cozy, so leaving it simple worked well.

So picture this space without the custom frame, and a slightly larger wreath hanging.  I added a pair of candlesticks for height, and voila, a simple fall grouping!  Because we have a TV hanging behind these doors, I would leave the candlesticks off for everyday.  This simple leaf garland instantly adds just the right amount of charm for the final touch.

Moving on to an even more clean look, I scaled down the pumpkin vignette, and added some taller pieces on the outer edge where the doors wouldn’t disrupt them.

I kept the garland, and turned to a few staple decor items.. a plant, some old books, and candlesticks.  The larger cotton wreath takes center stage and the mantle decor plays a more complimentary role.

Bring on the Twinkly Lights

Let’s be serious though, if you know me at all.. you have been reading this post wondering when I would utilize twinkly lights 😀

Twinkly lights are magic! Talk about instant ambiance <3

I made a trip to Windmill Gardens, and to my delight several white pumpkins, big and small, made their way into my trunk.  Most of them are on my front porch, but the babies sit quite pretty here on my mantle along with a few faux ones 😉

As a matter of fact, the greens are faux as well.  My stash of faux florals from Afloral has proved quite useful for many occasions.  Again, the cotton wreath creates a grand statement, but in my opinion, the twinkly lights steal the show.

This Year’s Fall Mantle Decor WINNER!

A parade of white pumpkins adorned with greens and sprinkled with twinkly lights won this year’s honorary spot in the living room.  And yes, I turn the twinkly lights on during the day when I am home to enjoy them 🙂

I hope you gathered some helpful tips for your fall mantle decor, and thank you so much for stopping by!  Be sure to visit these amazing bloggers listed below for gobs more inspiration!

• CG Home Interiors
• Revive and Design
• Cambridge Home Company
• The Pickled Rose
• Julie Warnock Interiors
• TX Sized Home

Author and Photos – Martha Knake

Chief Editor – Emily Schunke