Easy Autumn Decor

Today it finally feels like Autumn here in my corner of North Carolina - a nice 68 degrees! After much of September's tempatures feeling like summer, I was ready for cooler weather! The forecast next week is classic fall - highs in the low 70's and lows in the mid-50's!

I've spent most of the last two weeks getting the house transitioned from the light and bright colors of summer to rich, earthy shades. Fall nesting is actually pretty easy in my house. When we first moved in, I made sure that the colors I painted each room would work with my fall decor and Christmas decor - soft yellows, muted greens, warm golds, citrus orange and deep reds. When I'm ready to change decor for the new season it's simply a matter of switching out a few accessories - florals, throws, decorative pillows and some art with deeper, saturated color.

I keep Rubbermaid tubs in the attic labled by season. I rarely buy new things each year but find new ways of using things I've collected over the past two decades of married life.

Here are some tips for adding season panache to your own nest:

1) Introduce hints of new color to your existing palette. If your rooms are mostly neutral, add splashes of autum red or orange for contrast. Muted shades of green are fresh alternatives to bold or warm color. Accents rugs, table accessories and throws add high impact for little money.
2) Add woodsy elements and texture. Bringing a little of the outside in adds instant fall style to your space. Wheather you take a trip to your local farmer's market or a walk through your backyard, look for moss, grasses and small branches that can be used to fill decorated urns, pots baskets or vases.

3) Decorate with wreaths. They are classic and versatile. For around $15-25 you can make your own gorgeous fall wreath. I love to hang wreaths over mirrors. Another trick is to lay them flat and frame candles or pumpkins. Wreaths add instant color and a festive ambiance to your home.

4) Add seasonal flair to year-round accessories. Here a couple of mismatched candlesticks are given an instant fall update with fresh flowers and berries. The punch of color sets the tone for warm and cozy interiors. These can be tucked on a shelf, end-table or mantle and enjoyed for days. To get more mileage try using silk flowers.

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Lastly, as the weather cools down and you find yourself indoors more, don't forget to make space for conversation. Cozy up your family and living rooms by pulling your furniture closer together. Add or relocate seating around your fireplace. If you don't have a fireplace, pull a couple of comfortable chairs around an accent table and add scented candles for ambiance. Stack a collection of books close by for those long evenings when snuggling down with a good read and hot chocolate or your favorite coffee is just what you need to pass the time. :-)

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Next week, I plan to offer a couple of family recipes that are sure to be hits with your little ones this fall so be sure to join me at the Cook's Corner. Until then,

Live Life Beautifully!

~Alisa