Fall Nesting :: Crabapple branches make the Fall Mantel Glow :: Fall...It's Extraordinary! :: AnExtraordinaryDay.net

Do you have those weeks…months…when everything seems to fly by and you feel like every day is a catch-up day? Yeah.  That’s me.

My connection to the blogging world began in the fall several years ago.

I followed all the link parties…wondered what “Mr. Linky” was…and consumed tons of #InspiringFallIdeas and drooled over all the amazing fall mantels.

When I finally had my own blog, one thing I wanted to do for sure was to link up to my favorite fall link parties.

 

Elegant Fall Mantel :: AnExtraordinaryDay.net

 

Sometimes life throws curve balls and it’s challenging to get back on track.  (At least no one can accuse me of being in a rut!!!)

I had been thinking of “doing” a fall mantel.

My friend’s husband build this mantel and fireplace surround for her, to use as a prop, when she took photos for the high school Christmas dance.   It looks good in her dining room, too.

As I was dreaming about what I could create, I read Layla’s post about her fall mantel and how she was linking up to Sarah’s blog for the annual Fall Mantel Party. Um. Yeah. Somehow I missed it all.

I guess I just need to face reality this year.  I’m late to the party! 

 

Crabapple branches dress up a fall mantel :: AnExtraordinaryDay.net

 

Who said that being late to a party means you can’t have fun?

Nobody!!!! So, although this post might be a bit late.  I can still party at Sarah’s.

And yes, you’ll see, there was plenty of fun!!

 

Fall Mantel Fall...It's Extraordinary! :: AnExtraordinaryDay.net

 

Yesterday, I went back outside to that crabapple tree.  The one that graced my fall tablescape here.  It was heavily laden with those sweet miniature fruits that look like small cherries, and I clipped a few branches which seemed to be reaching for the ground.

The fruit was the prettiest shade of peachy orange and perfect for my project.

First, I started with a grapevine wreath that I picked up at the local Goodwill for just 99 cents.

The crabapple branches were wired in place and made ready to hang.

I guess I could have shot a few photos of the project, but seriously, this was super easy!

Lay the branches on top of the wreath and wire them on.  That’s it!

 

Crabapple Wreath :: #inspiredfallnesting :: AnExtraordinaryDay.net

 

Then, into the house I flew.

Standing on a chair, I created a wire hanger for the wreath and attached it to the mirror.

I have an easy tip to hang a wreath over a mirror of picture which I need to share with you.   If you don’t see it soon…remind me.

 

Fall Mantel Decorating :: Elegant Simplicity :: AnExtraordinaryDay.net

 

Next up….decorating the mantel.

The whole scheme for the fall mantel came about because I wanted to use this lovely white birdcage.

With a white mantel and a white birdcage as the main objects, I decided to keep the white theme going and so I looked around for white objects to arrange along with the birdcage.

This took me forever as I wanted the heights to be visually appealing.

For the record…those of you who are great at styling…I am in awe.  As much fun as I have styling, I think I ‘work’ too hard at it.   Then again…if I enjoy it…maybe it doesn’t matter.

 

#FallNesting :: Crabapple branches make the Fall Mantel Glow :: Fall...It's Extraordinary! :: AnExtraordinaryDay.net

 

I love this sweet white bird and decided to place it midst some faux leaves in the birdcage.

Next, I raided the boxes of fall and added the beaded faux pumpkins to the arrangement.

The mantel was close to being done…but not finished.

 

Fresh crabapple branches and faux pumpkins dress up a fall mantel :: AnExtraordinaryDay.net

 

With the clippers in hand, I ran back out to the yard and clipped more crabapple branches.

Stems of crabapples were clipped to size and nestled in between pumpkins and the items in white.

And those berries you see around the birdcage.  Yup…their fresh crabapple sprigs, too.

Don’t you think the crabapples branches complete the arrangement nicely?

I’m pleased with how fresh the mantel looks.  And even though the mantel is very full, because it’s really just two colors, it doesn’t feel busy.  My friend and her daughter agree…it’s a lovely bright spot in the dining room.

My caveat: Crabapple branches won’t keep forever.  They’ll get droopy.  But that’s okay….I have a few other ideas up my sleeve that I want to try, anyway.

 

Have you decorated your mantel for fall?
What ways have you brought nature into your house this season?

 

Wishing you An Extraordinary Day!

Diane

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Comments

  1. Hello there! your mantel is full of beautiful colors. And I like the creamy white. Wish I had a crab apple tree.

    • Diane says

      This is my first experience with using the “fruits” of a crabapple tree. I have another idea or two up my sleeve…but we’ll see. 😉
      Thanks for your sweet words, JoAnn. I’m feeling so blessed. 🙂
      Hope your weekend is Extraordinary!
      ~Diane

  2. Linda says

    Very pretty mantel! I love the crabapple branches, perfect color for fall. And I like that they came from nature in their natural state.

    • Diane says

      Thank you so much Linda!! 🙂
      Nature does it best!!!
      Happy Fall!!
      ~Diane

  3. wow… so, so beautiful!! great job, diane!

    • Diane says

      Such a lovely compliment from an artist I admire…makes my day!
      Thanks Jennifer!!
      Hope your weekend is amazing!
      ~Diane

  4. Gwen says

    I agree! This is pretty! And I believe the fun part is the running outside to cut a bit more of this and that and “fluffing ” around with the items until it is pleasing to the eye!!! Tonight I moved a ceramic chicken to on top of my refrig where two fluffy fat chickens in solid green and a fall deep red are eating and watching. Another golden rooster is crowing, and my hubby says the red hen must be looking at him. A bit of good ideas and a bit to the lefts and even our refrig top looks a bit like fall!! I’m slowly doing my mini gardens but I’m enjoying simply playing. I’m doing it inside on the floor just a bit at a time. But it was nice to see pretty flowers again.
    Yes, my arrangements don’t always live but that’s what using real cut pieces mean!!! It means cut more or different!!! And maybe the berries dry well too. We will have to wait and see!!!

    • Diane says

      Haha! Yes…it was such a beautiful day to be “playing” too! 🙂
      You sound like you are have fun!! Your house sounds so homey and interesting. I love that your husband thinks the hen is eyeing him. 😉 And what a good guy he is to help you accomplish your nesting activities. 🙂
      Enjoy “playing” with your flowers. What joy, Gwen!

  5. Gwen says

    PS. It was my husband arranging things for me. He is a good helper to help me continue to decorate despite my personal limitations!

  6. Mel says

    WOW. I gotta tell ya, that’s just adorable as all get out. I like the whole feel of it–it’s pretty and it flows! I’m not so keen on those jeweled sparkly pumpkins, but gosh, they look fantastic on the mantle with the ‘other stuff’.
    I don’t have a mantle…….so I drool at those who do or who make do of a space in the same fashion. I DO have the top of the entertainment center. *sigh* NOT the same and I want a mantle!! (insert Mel’s tantrum! LOL)

    Ya done GOOD! And yep, I figured they’d droop/drop soon enough–I’d be a bit worried about staining from the berries/’fruit’ that gives such lovely colours. Oh, but for hanging outside in crisp weather–adding a branch or two to the wreath on the door might be good fun. Only….we don’t have a tree of that type. LOL
    (Ah well….a girl can dream!)
    And better late to the party than not at all, I say! 😉

    • Diane says

      You know….I’m right there with you about those pumpkins…but it works!! Actually…perfectly. “HE” did it again!!!
      Last fall I decided that any flat surface would/could be my mantel. So it was the top of the piano and the sideboard. The entertainment center is “up” there a ways though..yes? I do love the idea of using a real mantel even if the fireplace part is fake of nonexistent. Maybe you could obtain one of those. Or at least dream about it. 😉 Dreams are good. I thought about the fruit staining too…I hope not…but since it’s white there’s always that bleachy cleaner or paint. LOL!

  7. Your mantle looks incredible. I love how you have everything displayed, I feel like I never know just what to do with my mantle.

    • Diane says

      You are so kind, Stephanie. I played around with it a bit too long…but finally it came together. Isn’t it funny how things go from indecision to success in mere moments. Grateful the later happened. [wink] I think the key is similar elements, varying heights, and something that pops for the focal point. The hard part is that can happen in a variety of ways…
      Best wishes for a beautiful mantel. 🙂
      Happy Fall!
      ~Diane

  8. Beautiful! Really like this. Would love this look in my home! Would add some tea lights for a soft glow in the evening. 🙂

    • Diane says

      Thank you Susan! The glow of tea lights would be so lovely!! Thanks for the idea! 🙂
      Hope your new week is beautiful with all the delights of fall.
      ~Diane

  9. Love the orange and white on your mantel and the berries look perfect on the wreath and amongst your accessories. The birdcage is so pretty and really DID give you a good jumping off point. Glad I stopped by – I’m your linky neighbour at Seasonal Sundays!

    DD

    • Diane says

      Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your sweet thoughts and putting a smile on my face.
      Hope your week is Extraordinary!
      ~Diane

  10. Beautiful! mantel-fantastic! Thanks for linking up at Monday Funday!

    • Diane says

      Thank you so much Melissa!! Great to see you guest hosting, too! I had the pleasure of being in your spot at the beginning of summer. 🙂 Those six weeks will fly by!!
      Hope your new week is Extraordinary!!
      ~Diane

  11. Beautiful Fall mantel!!

    • Diane says

      Thank you sooo much Martina!!
      Happy Fall!!
      ~Diane

  12. Your mantle looks so beautiful! I’d love if you’d link up to The DIY’ers! http://homecomingmn.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-diyers-31.html

  13. It’s beautiful, Diane! You inspire me so much! I’ve not combed the yard for fall buds, blooms, berries, or otherwise. Thanks for helping me get my brain out of the house. 🙂 By the way, if you enjoy your “playing” time at decorating, it’s worth the little mini vacation for your mind and creativity.
    His blessings, <3
    Kim

    • Diane says

      You just put a big smile on my face Kim!! I’m blessed that you received a bit of inspiration. 🙂 Getting out of the house can be a good thing. [wink] Enjoy!!!!!

  14. Wonderful job- love the elegance and the crabapple branches tucked in. Love the bird cage and the overall colors you used.

    • Diane says

      You are so kind, Liz! Thank you for stopping by and your lovely remarks!
      Blessings!

  15. Thanks so much to linking up to our MM party this week – I love your pretty mantle and will be sharing this on FB and pinning!

    • Diane says

      You are so kind, Deb!! Thank you for your lovely remarks and for sharing and pinning!
      Blessings!!
      ~Diane

  16. I love the branches, so gorgeous and your mantel vignette is stunning. Thanks so much for linking to Inspire Me. Hugs, Marty

    • Diane says

      You are so kind, Marty. Thank you!!
      Blessings!
      ~Diane

  17. Your mantle is beautiful, I love the birdcage. Come over and share your post with us on the Style Sisters linky party..http://thestylesisters.blogspot.com/2013/10/centerpiece-wednesday-95.html
    Karin

    • Diane says

      Isn’t it fun when things turn out nicely?
      Thanks Karin for you kind words and invitation!
      Hope your week is Extraordinary!
      ~Diane

  18. Bev says

    Love this mantle! You’re so right; the branches are a perfect touch.

  19. Beautiful mantle! You are so fortunate to have a crabapple tree to clip these pretty branches! Lucky you! Pretty mantle in the oranges/rusts/whites. Well done! Catherine

    • Diane says

      Having the tree is a blessing… Thinking to do it…that was the other blessing. How many times do we have things right by us that we never even think about using? Okay…maybe it’s just me. 🙂
      Thanks for popping by Catherine and leaving you sweet words.

  20. Carolyn says

    Diane, I love the mantel display you created! I have some white birdhouses, rather tall, that I used for my youngest daughters personal shower. I always think I have to retire them to a bedroom until Spring comes again. Maybe not this year!
    I’m loving the touches of off-white. I too have a few beaded pumpkins in various sizes, as well as other beaded fruits, so I may go hunt them up now.
    This autumn I have been so reluctant to store away all my lovely pink & burgundy décor touches. Maybe I can do w/o the pink, focus on off-white & still have just a little orange w/my beloved burgundy. (o;

    • Diane says

      Oh Carolyn…I love that this is inspiring you to use some of your favorite things in new and fresh ways. Your plans sound beautiful!!!
      Blessings!!
      ~Diane

  21. Your fall mantle is beautiful! Thanx for partying at THT.

  22. Well I have a crapapple tree and never use it for decor. How STUPID, lol! I am serious….i clip fresh flowers, dried grasses, I dry hydrangea and on and on and all that I do is trim the crabapple.

    DUH and I am having an EXTRAORDINARY lightbulb moment 🙂

    • Diane says

      Haha! I know exactly what you mean. Thinking to use all the elements in the yard is a new thing for me. A good one too! Have fun with your crabapple trimmings, Debra!!

  23. Sandi says

    Diane, your mantel looks lovely and I’m not usually an orange person but your berries are just so pretty! And I love the birdcage! Great job and thanks for sharing at my HOME.

    Blessings,
    Sandi

    • Diane says

      Haha!! I know exactly what you’re talking about Sandi. I think this orange is peachier and softer and earthy and so it feels better.
      Thanks for your kind words…. [hugs]

  24. Nici says

    Your mantel is gorgeous! I love the crabapples and all the height variations. Simply beautiful. I seem to always be a day late and a dollar short too. As far as being late to the big parties, there’s still plenty of time for exposure. There’s always the It’s Fall Y’all Link Party that goes live each Saturday. And, I’d love to have you link up to All Things Thursday Blog Hop too. Hope your week is wonderful!
    Blessings,
    Nici

    • Diane says

      You are so sweet Nici! Thank you for your encouraging words. 🙂
      Hope your day is Extraordinary!!
      ~Diane

  25. Kathy says

    Diane, Your mantle is lovely! Very tasteful!

    • Diane says

      Thank you so much Kathy!!! You never know how things are going to come together. I was quite pleased, too. Isn’t it fun when you enjoy your ‘work’ after the fact?
      Hope your day is Extraordinary!
      ~Diane

  26. Linda says

    Love the way you arranged your Fall mantel. All of the layering is beautiful. The branches add a lovely touch of nature, along with the bird cage and pumpkins. This may be my first visit here.

    • Diane says

      Thank you soooo much Linda!! And welcome to my little corner of blogland. Hope you come often. 🙂
      Wishing you An Extraordinary Day!

  27. Beautiful display! I love the rich colours. 🙂 It’s never too late! Glad I stopped by!
    Jennelise

    • Diane says

      You’re right…I’m learning it IS never too late. 😉
      Thanks for your kind words Jennelise!!
      May your weekend be Extraordinary!
      ~Diane

  28. I need a wreath like this! Pinned!

  29. Your mantel is gorgeous and very elegant! Thanks for sharing with us at TTF!

    • Diane says

      Isn’t it wonderful when things just come together? I could hardly believe it when the mantel finally did. 🙂
      Thanks for your kind words, Linda!
      Hope your weekend is Extraordinary!

  30. Don’t worry about being late to our party! We would love to have you anytime you can come.
    http://www.madefrompinterest.net/2013/10/super-saturday-link-party-13/ Your ideas would be a hit with our crowd. It would be our honor to have you join us!

  31. Diane, your fall mantel is gorgeous! I love the colors and that bird cage is beautiful! Thank you so much for sharing with us at A Bouquet of Talent this week. You were featured at Pick of the Bunch today! I just couldn’t resist featuring. 🙂 Just pinned and tweeted.

    Have a wonderful weekend!
    Hugs
    Kathy

    • Diane says

      Awwww….Kathy…you are the sweetest kindest friend.
      Thank you for the feature and for being such a wonderful blessing.
      ~Diane

  32. Cindy says

    So pretty, I love all your Autumn touches! Thanks so much for sharing at AMAZE ME MONDAY!!!
    Blessings,
    Cindy

  33. Abby says

    Lovely! It looks so natural and peaceful.

    • Diane says

      You are so sweet Abby. 🙂 Thank you!!!
      Wishing you An Extraordinary Day!

  34. Judy says

    Your mantel is absolutely gorgeous. I will be featuring this tonight at my Fall into Fall party that opens at 8pm EST. Please stop by and pick up an I’ve Been Featured button. Thanks. http://diybydesign.blogspot.com

    • Diane says

      Judy, you just made my day!!!! Thank you so much!!

  35. these are wonderful, but didn’t realize they were crabapple berries!

    • Diane says

      Yes…they are a little different than the usual crabapples. You should see the tree….gorgeous!!
      Thanks for stopping by Debra!!
      Blessings!

  36. I just wanted to let you know that I featured your wonderful project on homework. Thanks so much for sharing it on The Inspiration Board. Have a great weekend!

    carolyn
    homework &
    DETAILS

    • Diane says

      Awww…Carolyn…that just made my day!!
      Thank you!!!!!

  37. Laura says

    What a beautiful mantel and I am always late to the party!
    I just posted my fall mantel this evening.
    I enjoyed visiting so much.

    Laura
    White Spray Paint blog

    • Diane says

      Oh I feel so much better knowing I’m in good company, Laura.
      Thank you for stopping by…and for leaving your sweet encouraging words.
      Blessings!
      ~Diane

  38. Val says

    Hi Diane,
    Found you through the MyLove2Create link party. Your Crabapple wreath is pretty!I love the bright orange-reds with the white accessories!
    Val

    • Diane says

      Thank you so much Val! Until I put it together I didn’t realize that it would have such a dramatic impact.

      Blessings!

Trackbacks

  1. […] He did it again with the fall mantel. […]

  2. […] This time I planned to hang the prints on the wall in place of the mirror, so my next step was to decide what to place on the mantel.  After shopping the house, I choose these vintage milk glass containers, a goblet and candlestick that had been spray painted white for a past project, and a little white bird that you might remember from the fall mantel filled with crabapple branches. […]

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