Aside from tree ornaments, there are very few things we pulled out of storage to create a warm, seasonal home.  Instead we opted to use everyday and season-less items with just a hint of Christmas ambiance in a relatively traditional color palette.

Our decor this year is very organic with the exception of the vintage chippy mirror and salvaged pillars.  The blooming paperwhites whimsically frame a live succulent wreath.  Why go for evergreens when you can have succulents?  You must ask yourself.

Preserved boxwood topiaries add a bit of formality as they anchor the ends of the mantel plus they will last for  years.

I continue to obsess over cotton stems.  I simply laid them on their side to create a nice, full garland across the mantel.

Fresh holly from the yard nestles amongst the cotton.

Firewood is accompanied by a nearly blooming Christmas cactus.

The firewood tea light candle holder adds just a bit of warmth to the holiday display.

How are you decorating your mantel this holiday season?

Many of these items and similar ones are available at The West End Garage.

Bonus:  they can easily transition into the new year with the omission of the holly and ornaments!