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SUBR | Style > Decor

COZY WAYS TO DECORATE FOR FALL

shanya wilson Student Contributor, Southern University and A&M College
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at SUBR chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

There is something about the fall that is just so exciting. The crisp and colorful leaves and warm sunsets make us just want to turn our homes into a cozy haven. As the temperature changes, and the leaves turn orange, decorations can be a way for bringing the excitement of autumn from outdoors to indoors, it’s not only about making things look beautiful, but also creating an environment that feels pleasant, snugly, and filled with charm of the season. Decorating for fall is a major change to a room no matter if it’s the gentle light of candles, the scent of Autumn, the wonderful hues of fall-colored throws or the cute little pumpkins that happen to be piled on the porch. With only a few additions, your place can become the very embodiment of the fall season and make it memorable, warm, cozy, festive, and very welcoming to anyone who comes in.

One of the most timeless methods of adorning your space is using pumpkins. It is not necessary that they be carved, you may also arrange them in a pile on your porch, paint them with metallic colors, or just combine various shapes and hues to make a lovely rustic table decoration. Decorate them with hay bales or corn stalks and you will have a warm and welcoming fall display at your doorstep in no time.

Fall season would not be complete without wreaths. Wreaths made of dried leaves, acorns, pinecones, or even faux berries, simply speak fall before anyone comes in. A wreath hung at your front door not only provides a seasonal flash of color but is also an excellent way to energize the entrance of your home with that fall vibe.

Inside, the use of candles and warm lights are just the right things to create a cozy atmosphere. Spices such as cinnamon, pumpkin spice, or apple pie will give that instant autumn feeling to your home. Combining candles with lanterns or fairy lights will give your room the gentle, warm light which is the perfect match for the fall season. If you want a simple look, just replace your throw pillows and blankets with colors of autumn—deep oranges, mustard yellows, and warm browns. Such small changes can give your living room a great transformation and make it a cozy retreat with minimal effort.

Nature provides the materials for stunning decorations too. To have pinecones in a bowl, colorful leaves branches in a vase, or dried flowers in a mason jar are some of the ways to bring nature inside. Such small additions seem pure and bring back the love for nature that we have during this time of the year.

Decorating for fall, in fact, is not limited only to the house. The outdoor porches, patios, and yards are also able to get decorated and light up with beautiful fall décor. Rope lights and plaid throws spread out on the armrests of your patio furniture, and a handful of lanterns are all it takes to get your outdoor area ready for those cold nights. Moreover, by having a scarecrow or a doormat with a message, you get your autumn theme to bring some smiles now and later.

What makes the season of autumn so special is that the decorating is not just about things—it is about the decor. The correct decorations instill the very essence of the holidays in your home, which is comfort, nostalgia, and the coming together of the family and friends. So, when you wrap your home with pumpkins, cornstalks, and hay bales, it will be a warm escape from the chilly autumn air. Or if you decide to use candles, plush throws, and copper accents, the feeling of your home will still be a comforting retreat.

Fall is passing quickly, which makes the season even more enchanting. All you need to do is choose the right decorations and bring the season’s magic into your home, so you can admire its beauty every time you walk through the door.

My name is Shanya, and I'm from New Orleans. I have always been passionate about helping people, which is why I chose to study psychology. Mental health is an issue that impacts so many, yet not everyone has the support or resources they need to navigate it. This is something I want to change. I may not have all the answers right now about the specific job I want or exactly where my degree will take me, but one thing is certain: I want to make a difference in my community.

In New Orleans, and in communities like mine, many people struggle with mental health. Unfortunately, the lack of accessible resources often leads individuals down paths of substance use, with drugs or alcohol becoming a way to cope with their challenges. I want to be a bridge to help those in need—someone who can provide not only support but also guidance to those who are struggling. By working in the mental health field, I aim to make sure that everyone, regardless of their background, can access the care they deserve. I want to contribute to creating a society where mental health is prioritized, and where people feel heard, supported, and empowered to live their best lives.

I also work with autistic children as an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapist. In this role, I help them learn essential coping and communication skills to navigate their daily lives. This experience has further solidified my passion for mental health, as I witness firsthand how impactful early intervention, and support can be for children and their families. Seeing these kids make progress and achieve small victories inspires me every day. It reminds me that every person, no matter their challenges, deserves access to the tools and support they need to thrive.

Outside of my passion for mental health, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also enjoy working out, going out, and having a good time—I love to dance! These activities help me maintain a healthy balance in my life and allow me to stay connected to the people and experiences that bring me joy.