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Homes & Gardens
Homes & Gardens
Megan Slack

'Martha on the Mantle' is 2024's alternative to Elf on the Shelf – the Stewart-approved decoration is a modern-day icon (and it's under $40)

Martha Stewart.

It's not every day that a Christmas accessory has the ability to stop the entire H&G office in its tracks, but the discovery of Martha on the Mantle did precisely that.

To conclude what we can only describe as 'Martha Stewart's year' (not least thanks to her eponymous Netflix documentary and the publication of her 100th cookbook), we all have the opportunity to bring her into our Christmas decor.

Martha on the Mantle (available on Amazon) is a twist on 'Elf on the Shelf' – the decade-old tradition in which a mischievous elf visits children between Thanksgiving and Christmas to 'report on their behavior' to Santa. In recent years, elf dolls have become a staple home accessory – but this Christmas, Stewart is continuing to take center stage.

You may already associate Martha with Amazon, the retailer that plays home to the Martha Stewart Collection of homeware essentials that are similarly loved here at H&G. However, this Martha on the Mantle accessory is the must-have of the moment.

Alongside the quintessentially Stewart outfit, this doll comes with a matching Santa Claus hat, mini wreath, presents, and a gold champagne bottle, naturally. The face is modeled just like the mogul – so your guests can figure out who it is before you tell them.

Plus, we're not alone in our admiration for the piece. Alongside sitting on a shelf, we recommend incorporating some Martha Stewart-inspired charm into your Christmas tree (where its flexible arms mean it can hang alongside your other ornaments). With Martha on the Mantle, there are no rules.

Stewart's brand, Martha Stewart, recently gave the doll a seal of official approval, adding that this 'plush toy that looks just like Martha will add a charming and fun touch to your home for all to enjoy.'

Anyone who knows Martha Stewart knows she doesn't hang out alone. In recent years, her friendship with Snoop Dogg has domainted popular culture (because who can help but love a photo of them living their best lives). It's only fair, therefore, that we pair Martha on the Mantle with her friend Snoop on a Stoop (also available on Amazon). If there's any way to pay homage to their power in 2024, it's through this. You can shop below (and in the interest of tradition, we've included some classic elves, both of which are available via Target).


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