Custom Hardwood Fireplace Mantels at The Mantel Shoppe

By Michelle Keller

“We are a one-stop source for beautiful custom fireplace mantels. For more than two decades, our team has been creating custom wood fireplace mantels for homeowners across the country.†– Nick Leopard, owner, The Mantel Shoppe

The Mantel Shoppe, based in Trussville, AL, manufactures solid Hardwood fireplace mantels, wood mantel shelves, and interior and exterior columns. Special items are also built on request and include cabinets, bedroom furniture and church pews. The company purchases 150,000 board feet annually in 5/4 and 8/4 Poplar, Cherry, Red and White Oak, quarter-sewn Oak, Walnut, Maple, Alder, pine, antique heart pine and mahogany. 

The Mantel Shoppe was created by Ronald Leopard in 1988 in Springville, AL. It was officially named The Mantel Shoppe by 1990. The first few fireplace mantels were built in a spare room in his home for friends. His business grew quickly and he moved into a garage where it remained for a couple of years. As demand grew, The Mantel Shoppe was forced to expand into a full wood shop rather quickly. “We were crowded in that shop, but it didn’t keep us from turning out an average of 400 fireplace mantels per month,†Ronald’s son, and the current owner, Nick Leopard said. “When we reached 600 fireplace mantels per month, it was time to move again.â€