Your Mantel is not for Stockings Only

By Kristin Salazar –

Back in the day mantels were used for heating and cooking. Today mantels are the main focal point in many homes and enjoyed for their architectural details.

I enjoy making an extra effort to change our mantel with the change in seasons. It really showcases such a wonderful feature many of our homes are so fortunate to have.

When accessorizing your mantel it should reflect your style. If you are on the sophisticated side, use candles and mirrors to dress your mantel. The light reflected off the mirror can give your room a calming affect with an added touch of romance.

Maybe you are more on the conservative side. A beautiful painting standing alone can make a huge impact on your room.

Are you a little edgy or on the modern side? Group together glass vases in fun colors.

For a little drama lean empty frames together in varying sizes.

As I decorate and freshen up our mantel for spring, I try to use items that remind me of the new season. Birdhouses, flowers, greens, a beautiful topiary, clay tags, berries and touches of white are each a reminder of what is around the corner.

The rule of thumb when grouping accessories is to work in odd numbers.

If you have a number of items displayed, group them together but always leave enough space. Keep in mind that sometimes less is more. You don’t want your pieces to be lost because it is too cluttered. You want to appreciate what you have displayed.

If you don’t have mantel to dress, all of these ideas could be used on a long console table in your family room or table in your foyer.

Enjoy welcoming spring into your home.

Kristin Salazar lives in San Diego, and is a mother of three, wife and is dedicated to sharing simple and inexpensive ways to create a beautifully inspired home on a budget. You can find Kristin at http://www.myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/.