CHRISTMAS MANTLE {2014}

I was digging for something in my storage closet the other day and came across a bag of paper fans that I used for my daughter's fifth grade graduation decorations.  As soon as I saw them, inspiration struck for my Christmas decor this year!

After using black, white, and metallics last year, I knew that I wanted to add red back in this year.  So, this year's theme morphed into very traditional red and green, with a little bit of gold and blue and white thrown in, and a whimsical twist.

I've been hanging on to the Merry Christmas banner for a month or two since I first saw it at Hobby Lobby, and it ended up being the perfect focal point layered over the old dresser mirror that I used for my Fall Mantle a few years ago.

The lighted star was a bargain after Christmas last year from Ikea.  I picked up 3 for a few dollars each, not realizing how cool they were!  Wish I had bought more.  I shared my trick for using electricity for things on the mantle here.

The paper fans were from Hobby Lobby and Party Galaxy.  The patterned ones were in the party department at HL, but as I was checking out I think I saw some in the Christmas section as well.

I bought 2 lemon cypress trees - one from Lowe's and one from Whole Foods - and planned to use them flanking my kitchen sink, but they were too tall.  So, the mantle was the next logical place and I love the life and pop of bright green that they add.

Scattered ornaments and mirrored balls finished it off and filled in some blank spaces.

I made a couple of new stockings last year, but they were a little plain so they got an upgrade with some fur, pom poms, and our monograms.  My husband was thrilled tolerant about having a polka dot, monogrammed, fur trimmed stocking.  {sarcasm there if you missed it}

The mantle is the one and only thing finished around here, so I'd better get back to work!  Are you finished with your decorating?

Have you been following along with the 12 Days of Christmas Home Tours this week?

There have been 4 amazing homes so far, with a new on every day.  Don't forget, you can link up your own Christmas home on December 16!  Here are the tours so far... you won't be disappointed!

Evolution of Style

Amanda Carol Interiors

Dixie Delights

Simple Details