I join most 20-something girls in this part of the world when I say that fall is my favorite season...though I’m a lifelong Floridian, I do whatever I can to savor the new and beautiful parts of every season, even if that means day-long drives to see colorful leaves and pick a few bushels of apples.
Since I can’t jet off every weekend to experience fall in new locales, I’ve done my best these past few years to bring fall into the place where I spend the most time--my home--in order to live the season to the fullest. Here are a few budget-friendly ideas to decorate and fill your home with seasonal goodness during the most wonderful time of the year!
1. A WELCOMING DOORSTEP | The first time I pulled up to my new house, before I signed a lease or even looked inside, I IMMEDIATELY pictured how adorable my tiny front porch would look come fall. A pair of pumpkins, two pots of mums and a wreath on the door are a recipe for instant charm. Trader Joe’s always has great deals on seasonal plants (and pumpkins!), and I’ve been using the same fall wreath for years (I actually made it myself in college!). I prefer neutral and natural textures for wreaths, especially when used indoors--fingers crossed I'll find a good cotton wreath this year!
2. A FESTIVE FIREPLACE | For the first time in my life, my home has a working fireplace--basically heaven for an interior designer with no money, as it’s easy and fun to dress up the mantel according to the seasons. A swag of garland (Hobby Lobby and Michaels have strands on sale all the time--get those coupons ready, guys), a few candlesticks, and we’re ready for a cozy night in. I like to use ivory or gold candles with fun candlestick holders--I'll probably swap them out for white ones for winter!
3. CANDLES EVERYWHERE | Is it just me, or does fall have a distinct smell? I have a tradition of buying big candles from White Barn and leaving them burning nearly anytime I’m home--even if it’s still 95 and humid outside, the inside of my home essentially always smells like apple cider and pumpkin pie.
4. BLANKETS | Blankets are essential for fall, which is one reason why I’ve amassed a collection over the past few years...I love swapping out my lightweight summer striped blankets for the softer plaids of my fall blankets. I drape them on my sofa and armchair, and keep a basket in my living room with extras, easy to grab for a picnic or bonfire in the backyard.
Now, here's hoping the temperatures start to feel a little bit like fall, right?