From Everyday to Holiday

It’s all about glow, glitz and greens

Designing the perfect holiday mantle can be a challenge, but Karita Dawson knows how to make it shine.

The co-owner of Complements Interiors on High Street in Historic Dublin says holiday decorations should have more glitz than everyday decorations, which should represent a homeowner’s particular taste

Recently, Dublin Life charged Dawson with readying a mantle for the holidays at the Muirfield home of Rachel and Jeff Beck. The two-story dark brown mantle is an impressive focal point in the couple’s family room, which is always decked out for the holiday season, Rachel says.

“I just love Christmas, especially now that I have kids.”

Dawson took the mantle — which features everyday items such as glass candlesticks, an oversized hanging painting and an urn — and transformed it into a centerpiece fit for the most lavish of holiday parties.

“Use lots of lights,” Dawson says, noting that her No. 1 tip for holiday decorating is creating an intimate, glowing setting.

“You want it to make you sit with a glass of wine and look at the mantle.”

Greens and ribbons also are a huge part of her holiday repertoire. Dawson suggests using high-quality artificial greens because they last longer and can be considered an investment piece.

Dawson also suggests creating a layered look with the greens and running them both behind and in front of items such as tall candlesticks.

“You always want there to be dimension,” Dawson says. “Make sure there’s a balance of the materials to offset different pieces.”

Gail Martineau is editor. Comments and feedback welcome to dublinlife@pubgroupltd.com.

Fun for the Whole Family

The timeless Elf on the Shelf has made a comeback this year with Carol Aebersold and Chanda Bell’s book The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition. The gift set includes an elf, the book and a keepsake box, and you can register the elf online to receive a special letter from Santa. Elf on the Shelf is available online and at local stores, including Target.

Shopper’s Guide:

Cedarbrook Landscaping and Garden Center on Glick Road has a number of items to spice up your mantle. Check out their variety of ribbons and green wreaths to add a holiday touch to your decorating.

Find some unique mantle pieces at Thalia and Dahlia on High Street. From candlesticks to urns that are perfect for holding pine cones, the home boutique will have what you need to create the perfect setting.

Baker’s Village’s Christmas Shoppe on Dublin Road features personalized items to make your mantle uniquely you.