Fall is in full swing, and it’s fun to see the Halloween and autumn spirit alive in our 55+ community. As you walk or drive around the neighborhood, you’ll notice a delightful variety of porch and front yard decorations that reflect our residents’ different tastes, personalities, and creativity. From charming and quaint touches to spooky and bold displays, each home offers a unique glimpse into how the residents here express the joy (or playful fear) of the season.
The arrival of fall marks the end of summer and brings an opportunity to embrace cooler days and all the festivities that come with it. Whether you’re a fan of traditional decorations or whimsical pieces or prefer a modern twist, there’s no shortage of ideas to create your autumnal haven. Let’s explore some ways to add seasonal flair to your home, inside and out.
Adding Pumpkins to Your Front Porch
Pumpkins are a classic staple of fall decor, and they’re more versatile than you might think. Our community has seen everything from traditional orange pumpkins to unique varieties that bring a fresh take to porch displays. There are white pumpkins, multicolored gourds, and even those with unusual stripes or bumpy textures that add character to your arrangement.
Consider stacking pumpkins for a more dramatic effect. You can arrange them in rows along your porch steps or group them together. Mix in smaller pumpkins, such as miniature white ones or funky gourds, to add depth and dimension. If you like to go all out, try painting some pumpkins with patterns or designs to make them stand out. You can create a porch display that’s cheerful and warm or eerie and mysterious—whatever suits your style.
Pumpkins can also be paired with hay bales for a rustic touch. This combination adds height and makes for a welcoming scene. Just imagine coming home to a cozy porch framed by pumpkins, hay bales, and a couple of lanterns that add a soft glow in the evening. It’s an instant mood booster!
Sprucing Up Your Front Door
Your front door is the perfect canvas for fall decorating. Start with a fresh fall wreath to set the tone. Recently, I noticed that coffee filter wreaths have become quite popular—they’re usually round and white, often adorned with striking black, white, orange, or fall-themed ribbons. These wreaths bring a modern twist to front door decor and have quickly become a favorite around the community.
If you prefer a more traditional look, consider twig wreaths decorated with dried florals, wheatgrass, or artificial autumn leaves. These wreaths’ natural textures and colors provide a warm, inviting look.
Beyond the wreath, you can add a garland around your front door frame. Use garlands made of fall leaves, acorns, or mini pumpkins. Corn stalk bundles can be placed on either side of the entrance for a bolder look, giving your porch an authentic harvest feel. Finish off the area with cozy porch furniture, like a bench or swing dressed up with fall-themed pillows and a soft throw blanket. Don’t forget a welcome sign—something as simple as “Happy Fall” can add the final touch to your door area.
Skeletons on the Lawn: A Spooky Trend
The skeleton trend has officially taken over Starhaven! As I strolled through the neighborhood recently, I couldn’t help but smile at the array of creative skeleton displays on porches and front lawns. From classic standing skeletons to more humorous scenes, residents have enthusiastically embraced this trend.
One standout scene featured a skeleton playing piano in the front yard—a fun, unexpected twist that brought plenty of smiles to those passing by. In other yards, skeletons have been spotted playing chess, doing laundry, camping, and even lounging on a makeshift beach. These imaginative setups allow residents to showcase their sense of humor and make Halloween decorating more enjoyable.
With reports of local and national stores selling out of skeletons, it’s clear this trend is here to stay. If you haven’t yet added a skeleton to your Halloween display, don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to get creative with other spooky elements like ghosts, witches, or even eerie tombstones exist.
Bringing Fall Indoors: Cozy Indoor Decor Ideas
While the outside of your home sets the tone, don’t forget to carry that cozy feeling inside! Start by lighting a few scented candles to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Vanilla, pumpkin, and spice-scented candles are perfect choices to evoke the essence of fall. The soft flicker of candlelight combined with these aromas sets a calming mood and makes your space feel like a true haven.
Bring out your favorite dried floral arrangements, wreaths, or fall garlands to enhance the seasonal ambiance. Arrange them on dining, coffee, or even your mantel. Adding a few autumn-themed throw pillows and warm blankets to your living room is another easy way to introduce a touch of fall.
Celebrating Fall at Starhaven: The Community Spirit
One of the most heartwarming aspects of living in Starhaven’s 55+ community is seeing how residents come together to celebrate the seasons. The community spirit here is remarkable, and it’s felt even more strongly during festive times like Halloween and fall. From informal gatherings on porches to friendly competitions for the best-decorated yard, a sense of camaraderie brings everyone closer.
This is especially true for those recently relocated, perhaps from another state. Moving to a new place can be daunting, but fall traditions like this make it easier to settle in and feel at home. In Utah, where Starhaven is located, the backdrop of colorful fall foliage only adds to the season’s beauty, making it a perfect time to enjoy outdoor and indoor decorations.
Embrace the Season and Make It Your Own
Fall is a season filled with nostalgia, comfort, and anticipation of the holidays to come. At Starhaven, we encourage you to embrace the changing season in your own way—whether it’s with a porch full of pumpkins, a cozy fire inside, or a yard filled with playful skeletons. Your home is your canvas, and this season offers endless opportunities to get creative.
If you haven’t yet started decorating, it’s not too late! The season is still young, and there’s always time to add a fall flair to your space. Enjoy this time of year and all the joy it brings. At Starhaven, home is a haven, especially when dressed up for the season!
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