1. Cut fresh Magnolia leaves, making sure to leave at least 6-12 inches of stem to work with. For extra shine, polish each leaf with bee’s wax. Arrange Magnolia branches on top of the mantel. Work from the outside in, weaving together the leaves while also saving small spaces for the fruit.

2. Mix a variety of fresh fruit, including pineapples, oranges, pink grapefruit, apples, tangelos, lemons, and limes, into the greenery. Be sure to use fruits that vary in height, color, and shape.

3. Work from the outside in, being sure to keep the height of the leaves and fruits balanced as evenly as possible.

4. Place a pineapple in the center of the mantel as a focal point. Use two more pineapples, one on each side of the mantel, for balance.

5. Use accessories, like a pair of candelabras and a pair of bronze birds, to create additional height and and sense of balance. When using accessories, be sure to weave the Magnolia leaves around them.