This article was originally written for the Railway City Tourism Insiders Blog:

When we think about fall decor, the first thing that comes to mind is pumpkins, mums and cornstalks. Am I right? While these iconic fall pieces are lovely, there’s so much more to changing our homes for this new season than just front door displays. Our lifestyles in fall change as well and our homes can reflect that in ways that are comforting and useful.

Bring out the candles

As we begin the new season, our days get shorter and twinkling lights in the evening set the mood. Candles create a sense of “hygge” which is a danish word meaning “coziness that brings comfort and contentment.” Aromas are also strongly associated with fall. Think of the freshness of wet leaves, baking of pies, spices and rain. It’s time to place a few around the home. To pick up candles locally, check out my store Suzanne Faris for a variety of tapers or Spindle Mercantile for a selection of scented candles. 

Throw blankets

As we leave the hot sticky summer behind, now is the time to pull out your favourite couch blankets and throws. With the cool weather approaching, we’ll be staying inside and cuddling up on the couch for evening reads or movie watching.  Place them draping over couch arms, folded up by a fireplace, or displayed on a blanket ladder for easy access. Check out Jennings Furniture for a lovely selection of wool and cotton throws. 

Artwork

Rather than staring at the same pieces year round, why not switch it up? Artwork is a great way for your home to reflect the seasons. Select one of medium size in a central location and start collecting. Perhaps you will display a floral piece in the spring, switch that to a treed landscape, or opt for a cozy snowy scene with warm lights and fires. Animal pictures are also great for fall, think foxes, deer or birds of prey. For local artwork, Check out Grayden Laing Studios, Laura Woermke, Dennis Kalichuck or the St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre for more great pieces.

Fall Florals

Of course we can’t talk about fall without mentioning plants. And yes the front door is a prime location for displaying fall colours and textures! While mums are an obvious choice for their bold colours, consider pairing them with some ornamental cabbage, grasses and natural elements such as sticks and dried seed pods. A variety of arrangements from urns to door wreaths make a home inviting and warm. Check out Canadale or Family flowers for more plant and front door decor inspiration.

I hope you embrace the new fall season with all of its richness and beauty. Our homes are a place of refuge and inspiration and taking time to renew them is time well spent. 

– Suzanne