Because I’m a reluctant fall decorator, this post goes out to all the mum killers out there. RIP flowers.
Our porch is tiny but mighty. And today, I’m sharing a few of my favorite tips.
I didn’t really have a lot of time to fuss over this, so in a hurry, I threw together a few things and I’m pretty happy with how it all turned out.
Without further ado, the cheater’s guide to a fun fall porch!
1. The Cheater’s Guide to a Fun Fall Porch: Be Friendly.
This is kinda basic, but something people don’t always consider. This happened with our original outside makeover with window world, but we loved fresh paint, and basic curb appeal things that did make the actual house look better… even if the yard currently leaves a TON to be desired… {We have plans – we’re FINALLY ready to begin}
Cool story Ash. Why did I say be friendly? Because this is the cheater’s guide, not the entire house makeover guide.
Here’s a basic place to start: house numbers and well-lit areas are always nice. Especially for the pizza delivery person. Consider ways to make it easier for friends and visitors to find your home! It’s a basic element to add that can be quite priceless. We still adore our light from Kichler, and our house numbers, too – from Drop Cap Studio.
2. The Cheater’s Guide to a Fun Fall Porch: Layer up.
With door mats, pillows and more. It makes us happy to be able to make this small space cozy. While we would love to eventually expand it {again, a septic, setback, and all the things issue to maybe be examined at a later date} we do love what we have, regardless. And we love to make it feel homey in the meantime.
We added this rug to our doormat with these pillows + love the way it looks with everything.
… Rocking chairs are from here.
3. The Cheater’s Guide to a Fun Fall Porch: Don’t Be Afraid of Color.
I mean honestly, haint blue for the win. But you can also have little elements without making your home feel too crazy. Clearly we’ve gone for a quiet backdrop, and offer pops of color with our rocking chairs, pillow selections and more. And yes, we’re always mixing it up. But just because it’s fall doesn’t mean it has to be neutral. Too many people shy away, because they’re not sure how to make it work. Do what you love! Color is always so welcoming in all its beautiful hues on the front porch.
Color. For. The. Win.
4. The Cheater’s Guide to a Fun Fall Porch: Go Faux.
Yes, I did actually just write that. Yes, I did do it. Yes, I DO kill my mums every year. And honestly, you can’t tell from where everyone else sees them. {Friends use our side door}
Here’s the key:
1. Mix them in with real so that people have to look twice.
2. Add moss on top of the fake ones that have gaps, so that when looking twice, people still wonder.
3. I spent as much on faux as I do on real every year, and end up killing them. These can be rinsed down and reused every year, storing them away in the meantime. YES, I am shameless.
This is me giving you permission to do it. You won’t regret it.
5. The Cheater’s Guide to a Fun Fall Porch: It Doesn’t have to Be Perfect.
Oh and in case ya think this looks great, and that I totally have my crap together, don’t be fooled by photoshoots.
Because our living room still isn’t put back together, {we’re going for a new look because why not add to the chaos?} but one day at a time. Good times. Hey… it’s the little things for sure.
At the end of the day, do what makes you happy and is easy. It’s a win for everyone.
What are some of your tips for easy fall decorating? We’d love to hear!
Have an inspired day!
Deborah Garrison says
I seriously dont know what your talking about your house looks great! Very nice job
ashley @ the handmade home says
Thank you so much, Deborah! You’re too kind.
Paula Doss says
Fantastic use of color! I’m itching to know – what are the mounds of lavender flowers flanking the front door! Stunning! I’m hoping they are fake so I can order some! Well done!
ashley @ the handmade home says
Thank you so much, Paula! They are from here Hope that helps!