Easy Mantel Decorating Ideas: Cedar, Norfolk Pine & Pops of Red
If you’re looking for easy mantel decorating ideas that don’t require a full afternoon or a pile of supplies, this simple greenery setup might be just what you need. I used two cedar garlands, one Norfolk pine, a couple of jumbo berry picks, and two red flower sprays. In under 15 minutes, the mantel felt festive and full. No fuss, no complicated steps—just pretty greenery layered together for a fresh, natural look.
Supplies
Natural Touch Norfolk Pine Garland
Real Touch Cedar Garland – 2
Jumbo Berry Spray – 2 (Trendy Tree)
Red Floral Spray – 2 (Trendy Tree)
How I Put It Together
I started by placing the two cedar garlands on the mantel, meeting the “blunt” ends in the center and letting the tapered ends drape naturally over each side. After a quick fluff, I layered the Norfolk pine garland right on top. It’s a premium, heavier garland, which actually helps everything stay put without tape, tacks, or wrestling it into place.
Adding the Red Accents
The jumbo berry sprays were 43 inches long, so I clipped the stems from the main branch to make them easier to tuck in. The red flower sprays got the same treatment—cut apart into pieces so they could be placed more evenly. I counted what I had, then started at the center, adding pieces outward so both sides stayed balanced.
I even found a couple of red berry balls from years past and placed them right in the middle for extra color.
The Finishing Touches
To complete the look, I added a tiny strand of lights for a soft glow. I was completely out of red ribbon, so this simple mix of greenery and berries did the job beautifully. I’m so glad I had the foresight when we were building our house to add electrical outlets to the mantel. Put that on your “to do” list if you are building or remodeling!
This isn’t an elaborate mantel by any means, but it’s quick, easy, and festive—exactly what I wanted this season. My decorating gets simpler every year, and honestly, I’m fine with that. Everything we put up eventually has to come back down, so a pretty, low-effort mantel feels like a win to me!
At the end of the day, mantel decorating doesn’t have to be complicated to be beautiful. A few good greenery pieces, a pop of red, and a strand of lights can go a long way—especially during a season when time and energy are in short supply. Even though photographing a mantel is always a challenge (this picture is the best I could manage!), I hope it still gives you an idea of how simple layers can create a really pretty result.
As the years go by, I find myself leaning more toward easy, approachable decorating that I can enjoy now—and put away just as easily later. If you’re in that same season, consider this your permission to keep it simple and still love the way it looks..
Until Later..
Decorating doesn’t have to be complicated to be beautiful. This little mantel refresh proved that a few good greenery pieces and a pop of red can go a long way—especially when you’re short on time (or energy!). Whether you want something simple for the season or just need a quick boost of holiday cheer, layering cedar, Norfolk pine, and a touch of sparkle always works. And remember… the goal isn’t perfection. It’s creating a space that feels warm and welcoming for you and your family.
