Summer Mantel with Sunflowers

This time of year I'm captivated by Sunflowers.

They are the symbol for late Summer, relaxation, casual dinners al Fresco, 

and all things French Country...

and I love to have them taking the stage on the mantel.

I'm not one to change up a mantel much when I've found what works.

This mantel is taller than I am, and to move things around I need a step ladder.

So I'm happy to keep the "basics" and work with changing out the faux flowers

and a few of the accessories in the center.

My Wolff Pottery clay vases from Restoration Hardware are a permanent fixture, here. They're just the right size for a nice full flower display without becoming overwhelming. But they're heavy, so I don't change them up on a whim. It takes some planning and muscle. Especially when I can't decide, then keep tweaking.

up and down, up and down...

One thing I did want to add were a few of my pieces of white pottery.

Some are Matte and some are Glazed.

Most don't have any markings,

 but a few say USA, and I think one is Hull.

other side...

I finally have most of my ironstone and white pottery gathered in one place,

 downstairs, so that made it easier to pick the few to use up here.

 Not much change in the rest of the Living Room...

Here are a few pics from past posts on my Sunflower Obsession.

I think this only scratches the surface!

Mid Summer Mantel

Decorating with Fall Naturals

Sunflowers on the Sunporch

Everything's Coming Up Sunflowers

Here's my Pinterest Board on Sunflowers 

if you'd like some wonderful Inspiration.

I'll be joining in here:

French Country Cottage

Amaze Me Monday at Dwellings

The Scoop at Cedar Hill Farmhouse

Show and Share at Coastal Charm

Wow Us Wednesday at Savvy Southern Style

Dream Create Inspire at Lehman Lane

Rattlebridge Farm

From My Front Porch to Yours

Shabby Art Boutique

Craftberry Bush

Have a great weekend, everyone,

xoxo,