A simple before and after

Since moving into our house 4.5 years ago we've diligently worked to update the original 80's components, e.g. brass fixtures, dated trim, bathroom vanities, &c. The fireplace has now had a major overhaul, with this little before/after being the final(?) project. My darling husband made the mantel and re-tiled about two years ago, but one thing was still bugging me.

I recently used a cheap and amazing product called Rub 'n Buff which I learned about from themoretalentedthanIcouldwishtobe Janell at Isabella & Max Rooms, to transform the brass on our fireplace doors to look like a satin nickel finish to match the hardware in the rest of the house.

Brass.

Satin nickel-ish.

What do you think? I like the after better, although there are a few things I would do differently:

The Rub 'n Buff is a wax, so I applied it in a circular fashion similar to how one would wax a car. Not the best idea. Up close, the circular marks are very visible. I thought it would soften up in appearance when I buffed it but it didn't. I may try to apply another coat and brush it to give it a nicer finish.

Also, I was going to use a bronzy finish to be a little more subtle next to the black but all the art store had was brass, black or silver, so I opted for silver. I'm wondering how the black would look. Thoughts?

While we're at it, what should I do with my mantle decor? The empty vase is so... purposeless.

Oh, and the last thing I would do differently would be to have mineral spirits available to clean my hands. I looked liked I could have been an extra in Avatar, if they had silver creatures in it (did they? I don't know, never saw it.)

Overall I'm happy that the brass gone, er hidden, and all I'm out is a half an hour of naptime and $3.79 for the Rub 'n Buff from Blick Art Supplies!