If you’re waiting for the weather forecast to tell you it’s fall, you may have a long wait–especially here in Texas.  But we’re not going to let a little thing like 90-degree temps keep us from getting in the fall spirit, are we? In my view, September on the calendar grants us permission to haul out the pumpkin candles.  Is it too early to decorate for fall? I say, “Heck, no!”

The great thing about fall decor is that we get soooo much bang for our buck! Think about it: September through November! So jump on the fall decor bandwagon with me–bring a little foretaste of fall to your home even while you’re waiting for the first cold snap!

Rich Color Tones and Comfy Textures

Nothing says autumn like deep rich color tones like bronze and burgundy and gold. If you have a basically neutral scheme with colorful accents, nothing could be simpler than replacing a few summer-y items with fall-hued and fall-themed decor.

For example

• Change out your bright summer blooms and palm fronds for branches with autumnal berries and fall leaves. Even a crock of sunflowers can make a nice transition from summer to fall!
• Stand down, beachy tropical colors.  Amber and brown glass is everywhere these days–try working some pieces into your table settings and vignettes. Likewise green, brown, and burgundy transferware to mix with your own dishes on an autumn table.
• Begin to cozy up! Exchange your light summer throws for chunky knit and textural ones, and your pale linen pillow covers for heavily textured pillows of tapestry, corduroy, faux fur, and rich plaids.

Fall Scents

Want instant transport to autumnal joy? Trade out your Bahama Vibes candle for a pumpkin candle in your home.  Or cinnamon apple, pomegranate, woodfire, or any other scent that says “fall” to you.

Pumpkins, of course

Nothing like pumpkins for fall feels! I love using little ghost pumpkins in my fall decor. White goes with everything, right? (That’s what my mom always told me.) But you have many choices when it comes to pumpkin materials and colors, so just have fun with it. From ceramic to metal to felt and gingham, you’re sure to find pumpkins that fit your aesthetic.

Pumpkin preservation tip

Since I’ve encouraged you to start your fall decorating now AND to use pumpkins, I’ll pass along this helpful info about preserving real pumpkins so they’ll last as long as possible. Check out this article that tells you how to use ice, bleach, vinegar, peppermint oil–or even Vaseline and WD-40–to keep your harvested pumpkins from succumbing to mold and rot before the fall holidays.

More than ready for sweaters and bonfires? Me too!

Do you need some help on how to decorate for fall from a pro? Don’t keep spinning your wheels on what is not working. Five Days to Fall is here!