Pumpkins notoriously represent the fall season, making their way into Halloween decor as Jack-o-Lanterns and into Thanksgiving decor as centerpieces and porch setups. However, we realize that not everyone likes the full-out pumpkin motif.
We’ve got you covered if you want to spruce up your home without it looking like you regurgitated a pumpkin patch. A few accents and a change of color scheme can set you up for a cozy fall in the most tasteful way.
1. Bring Out the Mums
Rather than decorating the porch or front entrance with pumpkins, a couple of well-placed mums will bring in the fall vibes.
As long as your climate is mild, you can get away with watering potted mums only once every other day. They come in a plethora of colors, so you can choose bright, subdued, or even a dark, moody color to match your aesthetic.
2. Incorporate a Warmer Color Palette
Add warm colors to give your home an autumnal feel without using pumpkins or Halloween accents. Bring in warm orange, red, muted green, brown, and golden yellows through throw blankets, rugs, and pillows.
You can even bring in these fall colors through your dishes, sheets, and vases.
3. Get Cozy with Candles
The best way to make your house mesh with the cooler days of fall is to create a cozy atmosphere. Candles (faux or real) are one way to do this. Consider grouping candles together on the kitchen counter or fireplace mantle. Light them when the sun goes down to give your home a glow. (Just don’t forget to blow them out before you head to bed.)
4. Decorate with Dried Flowers or Branch Clippings
Some of your best fall decorating assets can be found in your backyard. Give your home an instant facelift by clipping branches from trees or bushes and placing them in a vase. You can also purchase (or make your own) dried flowers and stems for an autumnal look.
6. Switch Out Your Doormat
A doormat is an easy way to refresh your outdoor fall space without making it look themed or childish. Rugs with fall sayings and fall colors (like a brown and black option) are good choices. If you’re placing your welcome mat on a covered porch, consider putting a larger plaid rug underneath for added interest.
7. Play with Accent Lighting
Last week, I broke out my orange-toned fairy lights and added a set to my kitchen window and dining room centerpiece. They give a nice ambient glow when the lights are dim and can work well into November.
You can experiment with all kinds of warm-toned lights, from lamps to candle warmers and outdoor string lights. Your home will feel more intimate if you rely on these secondary light sources instead of your overhead lights.
