Purchase a silk leaf garland in your choice of gold, green, red, brown, and even deep purple. Lay the garland on the mantle. Use two garlands if desired, for added color or for additional length.

Next, line up the mini-pumpkins or gourds, evenly spaced all along the mantle. If you're not fond of the traditional orange pumpkins, try replacing them with little white ones or use green and yellow gourds instead. For an extra elegant look, try applying gold or silver leaf to the pumpkins.

Be sure to place circles of plastic under any items that may decay, such as pumpkins or fruit.

Decorate the center or ends of the mantle with several pillar or taper candles in seasonal colors.