Expert Tips & Tricks for Decorating Your Mantel

Designer tips for the Perfect Holiday Mantel

Styling Your Holiday Mantel: A Designer's Guide

Your fireplace mantel serves as a natural focal point for holiday decorations. Here are some Expert Tips & Tricks for Decorating your Mantel in two different ways. See the below displays and tips on how to decorate them like a pro:

Cozy woodland-themed mantel with festive greenery, red berries, pinecones, stockings, and twinkling lights, set beneath a charming winter village painting.

Luxuriously adorned in black and gold, this elegant fireplace mantel display celebrates the festive season with lush garland, glass ornaments, decorative picks and stunning black reindeer and large lighted hurricanes

 1. Start with a Full, Lush Garland

• Use a pre-lit garland to add instant warmth

• Layer in pinecones, ornaments, berries, or floral picks for dimension

• Let the garland drape slightly over the edge for a natural, elegant look

2. Add Statement Décor Pieces

• Use candle holders, nutcrackers, reindeer figurines, or festive hurricanes to add interest

• Create varying heights by placing items on risers or stacked books

• Balance the mantel with symmetrical décor (matching items on both sides) or go for an asymmetrical, organic look by grouping décor on one side

3. Hang Stockings with Style

• Use coordinated stockings that match your color scheme

• Personalize with initials, name tags, or decorative accents

• Hang them at an angle or staggered for a dynamic look

4. Incorporate Soft, Glowing Light

• Place LED candles or fairy lights in and around the garland

• Add a mirror or metallic décor to reflect light and create extra sparkle

• Add a charming painting above your mantel to finish the look

Pro Tip: Layering different textures—like faux fur stockings, velvet ribbons, and metallic accents—creates a high-end, designer look.

Follow us for more Designer Tips and holiday inspiration on Instagram = @RedsHolidayDecor

How to Create and Decorate the Perfect Tree Topper

Introduction

The tree topper is the crown jewel of your Christmas tree—it’s the final touch that brings your entire holiday design together! But choosing and styling the perfect topper can be tricky. Whether you love a classic star, elegant bow, oversized floral picks, or something completely unique, I’m sharing expert tips and step-by-step guidance to help you create a showstopping tree topper that ties your whole tree together beautifully.

1. Choose the Right Tree Topper for Your Theme

Before you start, consider your overall tree theme and color scheme. Your topper should compliment, not clash with, your décor. Here are some ideas based on different styles:

Classic Holiday Themed Christmas Tree

Winter Wonderland Silver & White Christmas Tree

Buffalo Check Burlap Ribbon Christmas Tree

Candy Cane Lane Christmas Tree

• Classic & Traditional: Red, Gold and Green colors, with large hoops and picks.

• Glamorous & Luxe: Oversized ribbon, sparkling floral picks, or a crystal-studded ornament.

• Rustic & Farmhouse: A burlap or plaid bow, wooden snowflakes, or a galvanized metal sign.

• Whimsical & Fun: A collection of oversized candy canes, red and white candy ribbon, or playful candies.  

Pro Tip: If you want to make a bold statement, consider a multi-layered topper that includes a mix of ribbon, floral picks, and decorative elements.

2. Gather Your Materials

To create a custom tree topper, here’s what you’ll need:  

• Ribbon (wired works best for structure)  

• Floral Picks (poinsettias or magnolias)

• Decorative Sprays (berries, pinecones, glittered branches, or ornaments on sticks)  

• Tree Topper Base (star, angel, or large bow)  

• Zip Ties or Floral Wire (for securing everything together)  

• Scissors & Wire Cutters (to trim excess material)  

Pro Tip: If your tree topper doesn’t have a built-in attachment, use floral wire to secure it to the top branch.

3. Start with a Strong Base

Your topper needs to be secure so it doesn’t wobble or lean. Here’s how to create a sturdy base:  

1. Fluff & Strengthen the Top Branch – If your tree’s top is thin, wrap it with extra branches or use floral wire to thicken it.  

2. Attach a Supporting Element – If using a bow, large star, or angel, secure it with zip ties or wire.  

3. Ensure Even Weight Distribution – If your topper is heavy, reinforce it with additional floral picks or ribbons to balance the look.  

Pro Tip: If your tree doesn’t support a heavy topper, consider using a tree topper stand that slides into the tree instead of attaching to the top branch or secure it with zip ties.

4. Add Decorative Picks for Extra Volume

To take your tree topper to the next level, incorporate floral picks, glittered branches, or festive sprays around the base of your topper. Here’s how:  

• Choose 5-7 floral picks that match your theme; or for a fuller look use 8 each of different picks and add to the top to create that extra luxe statement

• Insert them at different angles around the tree’s top for a full, layered effect.  

• Use varying heights—some taller branches in the center, shorter ones around the edges.  

Pro Tip: For a firework effect, place longer decorative picks outward in a starburst pattern to create height and drama.

5. Tie it All Together with Ribbon

Ribbon can transform a simple topper into a grand statement piece! Follow these steps for a stunning ribbon topper:  

1. Cut 3-4 long strips of wired ribbon (around 24-36 inches each).  

2. Create large loops and secure them with floral wire.  

3. Layer different ribbon designs (solid, plaid, glittered) for depth.  

4. Secure the ribbon at the base of your topper and let the tails flow down the tree.  

Pro Tip: Drape the ribbon down the sides of the tree to create a cascading effect that ties the whole look together.

6. Secure & Adjust for the Perfect Look

Once your topper is in place, take a step back and assess:  

• Is it centered and balanced?  

• Does it match the proportions of the tree?  

• Is there enough height to create impact? If needed, adjust picks, fluff ribbon loops, or reposition elements until it looks just right.  

Pro Tip: Snap a photo—sometimes, seeing it through a camera helps you spot areas that need tweaking!

7. Bonus: Unique Tree Topper Ideas

If you want something different from the traditional topper, try these creative alternatives:  

Large Red & Green Elf Tree Topper

• Santa Hat or Elf Hat – A playful twist on a classic topper.  

• DIY Monogram Initial – Add a personal touch with your family’s initial.  

• Cluster of Oversized Ornaments – Attach 3-5 large ornaments together for a bold statement.

• Feathered Angel Wings – A soft, elegant alternative to a standard angel topper.  

• Mini Lighted Lantern – A cozy farmhouse-inspired touch.  

Pro Tip: If your tree is placed in a corner, angle the topper slightly forward so it’s more visible.

Final Thoughts: on How to Create and Decorate the Perfect Tree Topper

A beautifully styled tree topper is the perfect finishing touch for a breathtaking Christmas tree. Whether you go for a classic star, an elegant bow, or a custom floral arrangement, following these tips on How to Create and Decorate the Perfect Tree Topper will ensure your topper looks professionally designed.

Need help designing your dream Christmas tree? Red's Holiday Décor specializes in luxury holiday decorating services for any space!  

Book your consultation today and let’s bring your holiday vision to life!

CONTACT US TODAY!

Luxury Christmas Trees: What Sets a Designer Tree Apart?

When you walk into a space and see a truly stunning Christmas tree, you know it’s more than just festive—it’s a statement. A luxury Christmas tree isn’t just decorated, it’s curated. Every element, from the topper to the skirt, is thoughtfully layered, intentionally placed, and tailored to a specific vision.

So what actually makes a tree luxury? And how do designer trees like the ones I create at Red’s Holiday Decor stand apart? Let’s break it down.

1. What Sets a Designer Tree Apart? It Starts with a Vision

A designer tree always begins with a theme or story. Whether it’s Black & Gold Majestic, a Winter Woodland, Traditional Colors or Classic Red & Plaid Charm, every detail flows from that central inspiration.

Designers consider:

• Color palettes that complement the space

• The feeling or mood the tree should evoke

• How the tree will look in photos and under lighting

Luxury = intentionality, not just piling on pretty ornaments.

2. It’s All About Layers

Think of a luxury tree like a layered outfit styled to perfection. A designer adds elements in a specific order:

1. A dramatic topper – no star or angel required, just bold design

2. Base layer – ribbon or mesh to set the tone and create depth

3. Ornaments – in multiple sizes and finishes, evenly spaced

4. Floral stems and sprays – give movement and texture

5. Accent pieces – unique items like feathers, crystals, or themed picks

Each layer builds upon the last, creating that wow-factor you can’t stop staring at.

3. Premium Materials

Designer trees are built using high-quality, luxe materials:

• Real-touch or flocked trees for a natural, full look

• Wired ribbons in luxe fabrics like velvet, satin, and metallics

• Glass or handcrafted ornaments—not just plastic bulbs

• Custom florals, glittered picks, and specialty stems

• Coordinated gift wrap and tree skirts for a finished base

Luxury shows in the details—and the details are never skipped.

4. Balance, Movement & Flow

One of the secrets to a luxury tree? It’s not about symmetry—it’s about balance and visual flow.

Designers know how to:

• Mix ornament shapes and finishes (matte, glossy, textured)

• Tuck ribbon in a flowing, organic way

• Spread florals and picks in a shape that draws the eye upward

• Avoid clutter or flatness by spacing items just right

The result is a tree that feels alive—flowing, dimensional, and full of holiday magic.

5. A Show-Stopping Tree Topper

Forget the basic star or bow. A designer tree topper is a centerpiece on its own.

We layer:

• Wired ribbon in multiple textures and widths

• Glittered sprays, florals, and unique stems

• Elements that echo the rest of the tree’s design

A luxury topper cascades down and extends up, creating height and drama that finishes the tree beautifully.

6. Full Room Styling

Luxury doesn’t stop at the tree.

A designer ensures:

• The mantel, garlands, and tablescapes reflect the tree’s theme

• Wrapped gifts under the tree match the color scheme

• Lighting is warm and strategic for an inviting glow

• Even small spaces—like entryways or sideboards—get a festive touch

It's about a fully immersive holiday experience that feels magical from every angle.

7. Why Invest in a Luxury Tree?

What Sets a Designer Tree Apart? A designer tree from Red’s Holiday Decor isn’t just a decoration—it’s holiday artistry. It saves you time, brings your vision to life, and transforms your space into a place where memories are made.

Putting the finishing touches on Merry Marvel

You get:

• A one-of-a-kind creation, tailored to your home or business

• The stress-free experience of a professional setup and styling (and take-down services too)

• A finished look that wows guests, looks stunning in photos, and makes your holidays unforgettable

• A beautiful photo op to drive in business and/or promote your brand.

Final Thoughts

Luxury trees are not just about more—they’re about better. Better quality, better placement, better flow, better design. And when done right, they become the heart of your home during the most magical time of year.

Want your own signature designer tree this season? Let’s create holiday magic together—book your consultation with Red’s Holiday Decor today!

CONTACT US TODAY!