3 Tips for Fall Decorating on a Dime

Fall is my favorite. There’s something about the colors, smells, activities, and coziness of autumn that fills my heart with joy. I love decorating for the season, but, like most of us, I don’t have a huge budget (or much of one at all) for it after the cost of back to school shopping last month and Christmas shopping on the horizon. Here are some easy and practical tips for achieving a cozy home ready for fall without spending a lot.

Work with what you have!

I have several decorative pieces that I leave up year round so that I can just add seasonal accents. This way I’m not starting from scratch on my mantle, and these pieces anchor smaller decor and add visual interest and height. These decor pieces are also generally the style and colors of your room and help tie everything together. I have a wood box that runs down the middle of our large dining table that I fill with different seasonal decor every few months.

Shop smart!

As you’re building your collection of seasonal decor, be sure to shop garage sales during the spring and summer and watch for sales. Most stores clearance out fall stock after Halloween to make room for Christmas stuff, so you can find great deals. If you’re with me on Team No Christmas Decor Until After Thanksgiving, you’ll still get almost a month of use this year!

You can find lots of small accents and supplies for DIY projects in the dollar spot at Target and at Dollar Tree for next to nothing. Wreaths are especially easy to DIY and are much cheaper than pre-assembled wreaths. Now that I’ve been adding to my stash for 6 years, I (try to) only buy one or two new things each year and end up assembling what I have on hand differently each year.

Look outside!

During fall especially, natural textures and colors are perfect for decorating. Have your child(ren) help you look for pinecones and acorns on the ground to use for filler. Dry and frame particularly pretty leaves. Incorporate sticks and branches. Use the pumpkins you get from family trips to the pumpkin patch on your porch.

Of course decorating for fall isn’t a necessity, but it’s nice to have affordable and easy ideas and options if you’re hoping to cozy up your home this autumn!

Laura Friedberg
Laura is a born and raised Wichitan, a KU grad (rock chalk!) and a wife to her high school sweetheart. She is a momma to two little girls - Annistyn Grace (August '14) and Ellington Joy (November '16.) Laura works from home in NE Wichita as a wedding coordinator and etsy shop owner and as a family photographer. She enjoys traveling, working out, being outside, and anything crafty. Laura has a habit of being constantly on the go, loves all that Wichita has to offer families, and will never turn down an iced coffee!