Decorating for an entire home for the season can be overwhelming.  Make it easier on yourself by focusing on the “high dollar” spots like tables and mantels.  Those areas will give you the most impact without taking loads of time or a big budget!  (And remember, if you don’t have one, these same tips apply to a hall table, a buffet, or even a shelf.)    Here are a few tips for decorating your mantel for spring:

Tip 1: Expand the Real Estate

When decorating mantels, there are other areas you can use to make a beautiful display.  The hearth, the wall all the way to the ceiling and (for a non-used fireplace) the interior!  Step back and check out the different area options.  Maybe you can even pull in some adjoining shelves.  It’s a great area to expand where you can!  PRO TIP: Mantels are a prime opportunity to add some hanging décor, too – I keep a few tiny adhesive hooks underneath mine for an easy way to attach banners, ribbons, and greenery.

Tip 2: Go Asymmetrical

The most interesting mantels often feature asymmetry.  Look at your mantel as a whole and determine how you want your eye to travel through your display.  Home décor is like a pathway; you can go high on one side, and drop off the other side, and your eye will drawn through the whole piece.  PRO TIP: Height, depth and texture are paramount in guiding the eye through displays and vignettes.

 Tip 3: Use Interchangeable Elements

Spring has a lot of mini holidays.  Make your mantel décor last the whole season by going with a neutral springtime “base” then adding in a few holiday-specific elements.  You can swap these smaller pieces out with each holiday as the season progresses, without the need to change up the entire display.  PRO TIP: Mantels are great for layering!  You can lean a large scale art piece against the wall (giving height) then lean a couple more in front of it (giving depth).   Add in a few small objects for texture and you are well on your way!

BONUS TIP: Here is a very simple “roadmap” for decorating a mantel (or anything else, really!).  Once you have chosen a theme, just pick a few coordinating items from each category, and go to town!

Pillars: Tall art, signs, candlesticks or mirrors

Thrillers: Unique objects, sentimental pieces, pops of color or beautiful candles

Spillers: Trailing plants, greenery, ribbons or banners

Fillers: Books, vases, decorative balls, bowls or flowers