Home is Where the Hearth Is
December 9, 2009 by ncisetup
Filed under Fireplace Facts & Advice
When temperatures drop, there’s nothing that excites us more than rekindling that holiday flame. The flame of our fireplace, that is.
Photo by Nancy Nolan/Courtesy At Home In Arkansas
Our holiday decorating scheme wouldn’t be complete without a decked-out mantel. Check out four of our favorite time-tested tips for creating the perfect hearth this season.
* Keep it fragrant and festive. Top the mantel with fruits such as pomegranates, blood oranges and ruby grapefruit. Warmth from the fire will carry their aroma. Burn woods with subtle fragrances, like cherry or hickory.
* Put the ‘heart’ in hearth. Fireplaces are one of the easiest spaces in which to create drama. Holding the fire? Fill the void and keep it simple with papery white birch logs or dramatic driftwood. Create floral arrangements in monochromatic holiday hues, such as whites, silvers, reds and golds. Add a festive touch with small evergreens or a large candelabra.
* Take up a collection. Group together favorite items, such as holiday dishes, silver pieces, music boxes or figurines. Accessorize the spaces in between with holiday garland, such as berried branches, pine cones or tree trimmings. Complete the look with lights, ornaments, or bows.
* Let it glow. Add ambiance to your fireside arrangements with pillars, candlesticks and votives of varying heights. (For safety’s sake, light the candles only when you are in the room.)
How will you keep the holiday fire burning for your family and friends this season?
By Samantha Wells
