As both a mom and a real estate agent here in Madison, fall is one of my favorite seasons. Between Saturday mornings at the farmers’ market, taking the kids to local pumpkin patches, and cozy evenings at home, there’s just something special about the crisp air and changing colors. It’s also the perfect time to refresh your home with warm, seasonal touches—whether you’re planning to host friends for football weekends, preparing to sell, or simply creating a cozy haven for your family.
Here are some of my go-to ways to decorate and get your home ready for fall:
Create a Warm Welcome at the Front Door
Your entryway sets the tone for your whole home.
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Layer pumpkins in different sizes and colors (white, green, and classic orange).
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Add a fall wreath with natural elements like eucalyptus, pinecones, or dried flowers.
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Potted mums in deep yellows, burgundies, and oranges instantly brighten a porch.
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For evening curb appeal, lanterns with LED candles make your home feel warm and inviting.
Cozy Up the Living Spaces
Fall is all about texture and warmth.
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Swap lightweight summer throws for chunky knit blankets and plaid or velvet pillows.
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Add depth with rich colors—rust, mustard, forest green, or deep navy.
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Light candles with cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin scents to create that “fall comfort” vibe.
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If you have a fireplace, highlight it as a gathering spot with a simple fall mantel display.
Bring the Season Into the Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and little touches go a long way.
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A bowl of fresh apples from the orchard doubles as healthy snacks and décor.
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Swap bright summer flowers for rustic stems or dried arrangements.
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A simmer pot with oranges, cinnamon sticks, and cloves makes your whole house smell amazing.
Have Fun With the Kids’ Spaces
Kids love seasonal changes too!
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Let them pick a few mini pumpkins for their bedrooms or playroom.
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Create a simple fall craft corner with paper leaves or pinecone painting.
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Frame their fall art and add it to a gallery wall—it makes the house feel lived-in and loved.
Whether you’re decorating just for your family or prepping your home for the market, fall is the perfect season to make your space feel warm, inviting, and photo-ready. From the front porch to the kitchen table, small seasonal touches bring comfort and style.
And if you’re thinking about making a move this fall, I’d love to help you stage and prepare your home so it shows at its very best—cozy, welcoming, and ready for its next chapter.
-By Laura Parman
