COZY CURB APPEAL: YOUR FALL FRONT PORCH GUIDE

Fall is here, and it is the perfect time to roll out the welcome mat for the season! Your front porch is the first impression your home makes, so let's transform it into a warm, inviting space that celebrates all things fall.

START WITH A CLEAN SLATE 

You asked why now is the best time to wash down your porch. It's simple: you are clearing away the grit, pollen, and dust of summer before you put out your fall decor. Doing this now ensures your pumpkins,mums, and other decorations are placed on a clean foundation. Plus, it’s still warm enough to comfortably use a hose!

To quickly clean your porch, start by sweeping thoroughly to remove loose leaves and cobwebs. Next, mix a bucket of warm water with a little dish soap. Use a long-handled scrub brush or stiff broom to quickly wash down the floor and steps. Finish with a solid rinse from your garden hose, and let it dry. 

THE WREATH: YOUR DOOR'S ACCESSORY

 

 

A festive wreath instantly sets the tone for your whole display. When shopping for fall wreaths, you have a lot of great options! Look for these types:

• Berry & Leaf: These are your traditional fall stars, featuring vibrant leaves in reds, oranges, and golds, accented with colorful faux berries or small gourds.
• Burlap & Mesh: Often used in farmhouse style, these wreaths add a rustic texture and are typically accented with simple fall words or ribbons.

 PUMPKIN POWER

Nothing says fall quite like a pumpkin display! The type of pumpkin you choose makes a big difference.  It's important for planning your time and deciding how long you want your display to last. Knowing the difference between carving, heirloom, or decorative varieties is key for a successful autumn look.

• Carved pumpkins are a classic choice for Halloween, but they are messy and only last a few days before they start to go bad.
• Painted and Natural pumpkins, on the other hand, are durable and beautiful all season long. Simply using different shapes and colors of natural pumpkins. Or, you can get creative and paint them for a customized look that lasts for weeks!

If you are looking for long-lasting display ideas, check out our post, No-carve pumpkins decorating ideas. For ways to arrange them inside, don't forget our guide on Beautiful fall pumpkin centerpieces for every style.

DOORMAT DELIGHT 

A welcoming doormat is a small touch that makes a big impact. Layering a mat with a playful fall message over a large, patterned outdoor rug is a popular way to frame your door.

PRO TIP: Now is a great time to get a durable, non-holiday or non-seasonal outdoor rug! Retailers are clearing out their summer outdoor goods, including stylish and durable doormats and outdoor rugs, to make room for heavy fall/winter inventory. You can snag a great deal on a sturdy, high-quality mat you can use year-round.

PAINT THE DOOR

 

•  Deep Navy or Teal
•  Rich Forest Green
•  Classic Charcoal Gray or Black
•  Warm Burgundy or Cranberry Red

SIGN OF THE SEASON

Vertical wooden signs are perfect for filling empty wall space next to your door. A simple sign that says "Welcome" or "Fall" adds a nice touch of rustic charm and height to your overall arrangement.

COZY TOUCHES 

Make your porch feel like an outdoor living room! If you have seating, drape a plush throw blanket in a fall-themed plaid or creamy white over a rocking chair. Add a few weatherproof pillows. Finally, lanterns with flickering LED candles add a soft, warm glow that is perfect for cool fall evenings.

SEASONAL FLOWERS 

Mums are the star of the season. Their beautiful domes of color thrive on the porch. Place them in planters on your steps, or tuck smaller pots into baskets or galvanized buckets. Ornamental cabbage and kale are also beautiful, unique, and long-lasting additions!