I'm ready for a chill in the air and the season's first fire...for wool socks and chunky sweaters and hot chocolate before bed...for pumpkin spice and simmering pots of chili...for boots and flannel sheets...I'm ready for autumn.

And when the seasons change, the way I welcome friends and family into our home also changes. Today, I want to show you some inspiration for fall decorating outside!

This seasonal porch is full of ideas! The traditional elements like the lantern and pumpkins are a sure thing in fall decor, and the nontraditional elements like the crates and the chalkboard add extra layers of interest...

 

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If you're fortunate enough to have an old wheel barrow, it would be perfect for overfilling with pumpkins, gourds and colorful leaves...

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Wreaths are also a welcoming addition...

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A couple of years ago, I decorated my entry for fall using only 3 elements: plants, pumpkins and a fall wreath. Sometimes simple things, if they're layered, are enough.

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And what about these painted pumpkins!? Why not take something traditional and turn it into something fun!?

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These pumpkins, painted in bright turquoise, add a little delight to this entry with house numbers and orange ribbon!

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Or for more subtle fall decorating outside the house, use an old shutter and add a little galvanized steel...

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But really, when the leaves finally start to change, fall has enough beauty all her own. You don't have to go to great lengths to decorate.  Simply  add a throw to your favorite porch chair and spend some time sipping  hot cider and breathing in the season.