A Sunflower Mantel and Late Summer Inspiration

Hi friends. Today I'm sharing a look back post with a late summer cottage mantel from our last house. 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 showing out 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.

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

(one of my favorites)

Decorating with Fall Naturals

Sunflowers on the Sunporch

Everything's Coming Up Sunflowers

I'm gathering ideas for late summer and early fall with sunflowers. 

Here's my Pinterest Board on Sunflowers 

if you'd like some wonderful Inspiration.

Hope you're having a lovely Sunday!

Hope you'll come by the link party on Monday evenings.

joining in here:

The House on Silverado,  Love Your Creativity at Life and Linda, 

All About Home at Common Ground and Follow the Yellow Brick Home
Inspire Me Monday at My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia 

 Met Monday at Between Naps on the Porch 

  Inspire Me Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life   Wonderful Wednesday at Eclectic Red Barn

Turnabout Tuesday at My Wee Abode,  Centerpiece Wednesday at Karin's Kottage

Share Your Style at French Ethereal,  Vintage Charm at Our Hopeful Home,  

Thursday Favorite Things at Follow the Yellow Brick Home,  

Farmhouse Friday at  County Road 407

Fabulous Friday at Vintage Home Design