Tammy lives in Belton, SC, with her husband and two children. She is a 3rd grade teacher, loves everything about interior design, and decorates in her spare time. Some of her favorite things include spending time with family, reading, and binge watching reality talent shows. Tammy is happiest though, when she is doing something creative.
Get inspired through her Instagram @allrhodesleadhome
There’s no denying that the saturated shades of autumn’s colorful leaves make for a beautiful home. But what about trying a neutral pallet for this year’s fall decor?
You’d be hard pressed to find someone who loves to decorate as much as me, especially around the holidays. But I’ll be honest, fall was not my strong suit. Although I love the traditional colors, I’ve always felt like they didn’t mesh with my home, so I never liked the result. That is until a few years ago when I realized how faded and tattered my pumpkins were, and in desperate need of being replaced. I decided it would be the year for change, and I was on a mission to do it with as little money as possible.
Spray Paint and Pumpkins
Spray paint can be your very best friend. I promise it’s like magic in a can and for a few dollars you can transform almost anything and it will feel brand new. So, in my opinion, the easiest way to freshen up your décor is to paint your existing pumpkins, gourds, and even fall leaves, any color you want. If light and bright is what you are going for, use white or cream spray paint + primer-in-one in a flat or satin finish. Cover the pumpkin’s stem with painter’s tape and spray everything else. After two coats, voila, white pumpkins! It’s that easy! You could also take it a step further by using chalk paint to give a more matte and realistic finish, or craft paints to add accent colors. The great thing about neutral pumpkins is that you can add them to your existing decor. And don’t be afraid to try unexpected pops of color. Something as simple as a cute gingham ribbon will make them stand out even more.
Think Thrifty and Shop Nature
You can never have too many pumpkins or gourds. I love to pile and stack mine to make them look as if they’re overflowing. That’s why I shop my local thrift stores; people are always purging their unwanted décor. Dollar stores are another source for inexpensive items. And remember it doesn’t matter what they look like if you plan to give them a makeover.
Pinecones and leaves are two of my favorite accessories for fall. They create texture and can be added to any color scheme. I love them both natural and painted and they can be placed anywhere. The simplicity of fall foliage will add sophistication to your home and, best of all, you can “shop” for free in your own back yard!
Twinkle Lights
Twinkle lights are where it’s at! If I had to choose one of my favorite accessories, these would be at the very top of the list. In fact, I use these year around in every room of my home. Yep, even the bathroom! Fall is about “cozy”, and nothing makes that happen better than ambient lighting. You can find battery operated lights almost anywhere and they are great if you don’t want to deal with outlets or extension cords. Although I have a few of these, the majority of mine are plain white Christmas lights in strands of 20, 50 and 100 depending on the space I use them. I love the warm glow they emit and the price is on point, especially if you can get them on clearance after Christmas.
Layers, Layers, Layers
Last but not least trade out summer fabrics for decorative blankets, pillows, and throws. Try using what you already have, then layering them with different shapes, sizes, patterns, or textures for extra snuggles and a cozy vibe. Get creative and think outside of the box. For example, a large flannel or crochet scarf could serve as a smaller throw and might be the perfect piece to soften up a stool or dining room chair. Layering pillows and throws add dimension and instantly makes any space more appealing.
Changing your décor doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. When I realized that fall could be any color I wanted, it made decorating easier and it finally felt like me. Updating what I already had saved money and built a foundation in transforming my color scheme. Getting my home ready for this time of year is a lot more fun and stress free. So don’t be afraid to get creative and change it up for fall.
