When should you start decorating for fall? 5 signs the time is right
It’s understandable that in the wake of this summer’s record-breaking heat, many people wonder how soon they can begin decorating for fall.
Even though the calendar says “fall” doesn’t start until September 22nd, there’s no harm in getting your pumpkins and scarves out early. Design ideas like the best fall wreath ideas and fall table decor ideas seem more appealing as we begin to get our homes ready for autumn with annual maintenance.
If you’re worried about being noticed in the remaining weeks of summer, we’ve analyzed the best times to begin decorating for fall.
When Should You Start Decorating for Fall?
As the weather cools and the holidays approach, autumn is a great time to gather your loved ones close. According to Lucy Searle, Homes & Gardens’ editor-in-chief, fall is the best time to reimagine your home as a warm and welcoming place to spend time with family and friends. “Fall is my favourite season because of the vibrant colours and soft textures that come with it. It’s the perfect time to try out the trendier earthy tones seen everywhere this year.”
Even though there is no hard and fast rule about when to start decorating for fall, there are some things to keep in mind that can help guide your decorating choices and keep you from prematurely saying goodbye to summer.
1. WAIT FOR THE COOLER WEATHER
When the temperature drops consistently, that’s when you should pull out your fall decorations. Cooler weather, a welcome relief from the summer’s heat, is often the first sign of autumn and can enhance the relaxing effect of autumnal decorations in the home, such as those displayed in the living room. You might also want to check the leaves for signs of a change in the weather. The vibrant reds and oranges of changing leaves are a striking backdrop to your outdoor fall decor and a surefire way to let everyone know that autumn has arrived.
Lighting a fire in the fireplace or wood stove in the fall is easier, further enhancing the appeal of autumn mantel decorating ideas.
2. START THE SEASON ON OCTOBER 1ST
Although autumn begins on September 22 with the autumn equinox, the spooky season does not officially start until October 1. The month of October is ideal for putting the finishing touches on your Halloween and fall decorations.
3. DECORATE AT THE SAME TIME AS NEIGHBORS
Look to your neighbours for cues that it’s time to start decorating for fall if you’re worried about rushing the end of summer.
If you want to be a good neighbour, wait until you see your neighbours begin decorating before you start yours, especially if you plan to decorate your porch for fall. Nothing is more annoying than having bright, potentially loud Halloween decorations shining down on the street a full two weeks before the holiday itself.
If you’re waiting for other people to join in, it might be wise to start small, like hanging an autumnal wreath on your front door.
4. DECORATE FOR FALL WITHOUT HALLOWEEN INFLUENCES
Decorations that don’t directly reference Halloween can help you get a head start on fall decorating.
Consider candles with autumnal themes, plush throws and cushions in reds, oranges, yellows, and understated motifs like pumpkins and leaves to create a warm and inviting autumnal ambience. You can decorate your home for the upcoming autumn season with natural brown tones and fall colour schemes by incorporating rustic elements such as dried flower arrangements and wreaths.
5. DECORATE FOR FALL IN STAGES
Not sure when to start fall decorating but can’t wait for cooler weather? Make gradual changes throughout the season.
To make room for fall decorations, start by putting away summer accessories like cushions, flowers, centrepieces, and thin throws. Change the table scaping pieces like runners and napkins for thicker, more luxurious fabrics like velvet and wool, or add to the space with these additions. It’s also a good time to do general winterizing of your home, such as cleaning out your fireplace in anticipation of the cooler fall evenings.
Later in the season, when pumpkins and other autumnal plants are in season, you can decorate your home and front porch with a splash of colour before going all in with autumnal accents and Halloween decorations.
WHAT IS CONSIDERED FALL DECOR?
Decorating for autumn includes setting the mood with anything harvest-related. Cosy fall decor items include pumpkins, leaves, warmer-toned furniture and accessories like throw pillows and candles. Avoid using Halloween trappings like bats, cobwebs, and spiders in your autumnal decorating.
WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR FALL DECORATION?
Pumpkins are widely used as seasonal decorations. Both are carved to evoke a spooky Halloween ambience and left uncarved for a more natural appearance. These autumnal squashes make lovely decorative accents. Try a few different types to add variety and break up the monotony of the orange.
If you’re looking to save money on groceries or want decorations that will last longer than a few weeks, fake pumpkins might be the way to go this autumn.
