Summer mantel stylings over here usually include flowers.
And candles.
And vintage books.
It is kind of my thing- and my favorite look.
And would you believe that it is the 11th of August… and I have not styled and photographed a summer mantel yet? Seriously.
In between renovations, behind the scenes photography work for my book and other things I have been working on… I have not done much more than plop a zinc bucket full of blooms on the mantel and called it good.
So today for Friday Favorites- I am sharing 5 of my favorite mantel ideas… and maybe this will inspire me to tackle one for this year to share with you as well.
#1. Simple Elegant & Fresh
This mantel was so much fun to work on. It was a special project for one of my favorite magazines and it was all about French style and fresh goodness for the mantel. I chose coral peonies and cafe au lait dahlias and an armful of eucalyptus.
Tip: Creating a fresh flower garland is a fun way to get a different look.
I love garlands- and they aren’t just for the holidays. Try one for spring or summer with fresh eucalyptus or other greens and add in your favorite flowers for a soft touch.
#2. Simple style
Because simple charm is one of my favorite looks- this simple mantel was styled for a party and with just a few elements – it came together in just a few minutes.
Tip: Keep it simple with just a few clear glass bottles and let the overall mantel speak.
You don’t need a ton of flowers, ton of books or ton of anything else to decorate a mantel.
Keep it simple for a quiet look.
#3. Soap & Larkspur
Because, I love reusing those little soap bottles with pretty labels- and love Larkspur.
This mantel was another 5 minute mantel- they are kind of my favorites.
Tip: Laying flowers on the mantel is a perfect way to get a different look.
Flowers like larkspur dry well- and are a perfect choice for laying on the mantel to enjoy as they dry.
#4. Books & Blooms
One of my absolute favorites- this mantel out in the cottage was speaking my language.
The camellia blooms are from our tree and the books- well, collecting old books is an obsession.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to use one flower and repeat, repeat, repeat in various heights
Different size bottles filled with the same flowers is a perfect way to get a charming look.
#5. Blushing Beauty
See, I told you about books, bottles and blooms as my go to mantel decor…and it is true. And I could probably keep this list going on how many mantels I have styled with those same elements.
This mantel with those apricot and barely blushing blooms mingling with vintage aqua bottles is another of my favorites.
Tip: Mix in a bit of gold for a touch of bold.
The simple gleam of the gold lamp behind the flowers adds an interesting element and pulls the look together.
So there are 5 favorites for summer or anytime of year – using mostly the same elements in each one.
What are your favorite mantel styling elements?
Would love to know!
A busy few weeks coming up that involve holiday…
oh yes, I may be starting to sing Christmas carols already.
In August.
Before I have even decorated a summer mantel for the year.
Seasonally confused for sure.
🙂
Happy Friday everyone.
I just found some (about 200) century-plus old books in a storage unit. Many are paperbacks, and in those days, that meant the covers were just paper, like any other page. At first I thought the covers had been torn off, but no, that's how they were. Anyway, seeing your books makes me feel I can dare to use them, because they are well-worn! Thanks for the inspiration.
All so pretty<3
I love books and flowers on a mantel. Great tips, and so easy. Thanks, Courtney!
All so pretty, but I think the last one is my favourite. Great styling, Courtney.
Hi Courtney, thank you for all your inspiration! I love your mantels, but thought you should give some credit to the beautiful mirror that is reflecting all the gorgeousness. I've read some say that a mirror doesn't belong over a mantel because of the reflection of the ceiling…… but I couldn't disagree more! Your styling proves that theory wrong as well. Also, I wanted to thank you for the cake styling this week. I live in the Northern California foothills of the Sierra Nevada, so we also have an abundance of blackberries. You inspired me to decorate a cake and to use the budding vines in my floral arrangements this week. Beautiful and delicious! Thank you so much for everything you do.
Hi Courtney!
Great tip on re-using those darling soap bottles and I love piles of books, any where! Your pictures are always enchanting and looking at your pictures, I always catch my self gazing "beyond the perimeters" trying to catch a glimpse of other lovelies! Trenda
I always love your styling and photography Courtney. You got it goin' on girl!
Great tips, love all the ides..
Congratulations Courtney on your new job at Romantic Living Magazine. I know that you will do a great job.
xoxo Jo