Trophies

• Decorating a tall mantel with trophies and other symbols of your accomplishments is suitable if you want a prominent place in the home to display them. Sports trophies and plaques from work are ideal for a mantel. When they are high off the ground, they do not clutter tables and do not require you to build a separate display case. Additionally, they are safe from people who might damage them accidentally.
  
  

Candles

• Pillar candles add a pleasant ambiance when placed on a mantel over a fireplace. Not every style of candle, however, suits the space. If the candles are too short, you might not be able to see them from below. If they're too tall, their flame could be dangerously close to the home's ceiling. A group of pillar candles of varying heights creates soft lighting in the room. If desired, change the candles so their color suits the season.
  
  

Garland

• A seasonal garland adds cheer to a mantel, especially during a family get-together. The garland can be comprised of either real or artificial plant life; in the winter use pine boughs, and in the autumn use maple tree branches with yellow and orange leaves. When you don't have a seasonal holiday to celebrate, create a generic garland with flowers and leaves that matches the room's decor. For an extra touch, thread a string of white ornamental lights through the garland.
  
  

Framed Art

• The size and number of framed pieces of art you add to a home's mantel depend on the distance between the mantel and ceiling. In a great room with high ceilings, for example, use large framed art or family photos. When you have a mantel close to the ceiling, use several smaller pieces of art or photos. A thoughtful touch is to feature photos of deceased family members so they are remembered at family gatherings.