After doing my typical family room mantel and feeling a little let down with the result (read about that
here), I decided to change things up in the living room. Here is where I started which was basically the work of my four year old with a few things left over from the fall. And, yes, the lampshade really looked that way because I didn't have the right light bulb to hold the shade. Talk about forlorn.
It was about 15 degrees outside so I took on the challenge of doing everything without buying anything or even leaving the house! So, I shopped my house for things to use. I quickly settled on glass and crystal, as well as golds, silver, and splashes of red. It's hard for me to get away from red at Christmas.
Here's where I ended up and I LOVE it!
When I searched my house for stuff to use, I was thinking outside of the regular Christmas decorations. Anything that I had a bunch of and was gold or silver was game for inclusion. I had these small apothecary jars still in the box for potential use in my master bathroom. The candlesticks and other silver pieces were in my dining room (mostly unpolished - oh well). I filled the glass and crystal with Christmas garland, berry picks, small brass Christmas ornaments that I have not used on my tree in years but which have sentimental value, and even gold and silver napkin rings! The gold garland was previously an old centerpiece which I dismantled this year so I could use the pieces.
I had bought these reindeer ornaments at the dollar store earlier this season. I think they were 2 for a $1 and they are adorable. I love how they bring a touch of whimsy to the display and dress up the sconces a bit.
What do you think?
