Fall is unquestionably my favorite time of year, but I consistently feel as if I am missing out on the season when it does come around. I spend all summer wishing the days would get shorter, and the weather would turn cooler; I make Pinterest boards of autumnal aesthetics, trees, and coffee shops. Hell, I even go as far as to decorate my apartment in the dead heat of the summer months! But by the time the autumn equinox officially arrives, I am swept away in a sea of deadlines, exams, extracurriculars, and work; life becomes too busy to fully enjoy the season before we get whisked into the wonders of winter.
To me, fall is a special time of year that represents not only the year drawing to a close, but also the overwhelming nostalgia I constantly yearn for. To truly hone in on this feeling and enjoy the melancholy moods of fall, I have spent my days ‘fall-maxing,’ a term I coined to allow me to enjoy the season to its fullest potential. So, here are some of the ways I have incorporated fall-maxing into my daily routines.
Fall Fragrances
When I think of fall, I think of cozy cashmere sweaters and clear blue skies with a touch of chilliness in the air. I think of pumpkin spice lattes and warm apple cider at a local pumpkin patch, exploring a corn maze and choosing the perfect pumpkin to put at your front door. With that, I deliberately choose fragrances that translate those feelings and reflections into a scent that I can easily wear throughout the season. It feels chic to wear a perfume that fits the mood, and fall in its entirety is no exception. It is a small thing I choose to do every day, but it has truly allowed me to experience the season.
Fall Festivities
One of my favorite things to do around this time of year is to go to pumpkin patches. Specifically, going to pumpkin patches that offer nighttime haunted attractions. Fall and Halloween just about go hand-in-hand with one another, so walking through haunted houses is an absolute MUST. For some, haunted attractions may be a little overwhelming, so instead, here are some other fall-themed festivities that I believe are a great way to fall-max the season!
- Apple orchards: Hand-picking your own apples is amazing, and they always taste ten times better than the ones you can purchase at the store. Apple orchards are also the perfect place to have a cutesy fall photoshoot.
- Sunflower farms: If you catch them at just the right time, sunflower farms are the perfect place to go when you are looking for fall weekend activities! Sunflowers typically are in bloom from late summer until early-to-mid fall. If you can find a local farm that grows them, I highly recommend finding the time to visit!
- Local trails: For a more affordable option, find a local trail or park! Going on an evening stroll and admiring fall foliage is an easy way to enjoy the season without breaking the bank.
- Pumpkin carving night: Get some friends together, pick up some pumpkins, and host a pumpkin carving night with your gang! Put on a movie, get some drinks, order some food, and have a fun night in. Another easy and affordable option!
Fall Foods
Getting seasonal treats is an absolute MUST for those wanting to fall-max and make the most of the season. Most bakeries and cafes often have seasonal menus that range from baked goods to festive drinks that really put you in that autumn headspace. Bonus points if you indulge in a fall festivity afterwards!
Shopping
If you can, make time to go to your favorite shopping center and have a fall shopping spree! Get whatever your heart desires, and curate your perfect fall. For those who do not want to spend money, window shopping is always an option! When in doubt, shop it out!
Fall-maxing is unique and personalized. If you want to make the most of this captivating time of the year, take the time to truly enjoy it; and if you are anything like me, participating in these methods is not only a great way to enjoy fall, but also to make it a memorable one.