Say adieu to summer and hello to autumn. Although seasonal changes in California can be more subtle than in other states, in the Central Valley we still experience leaf peeping, cooler evenings, pumpkin harvests and fall décor! These autumnal ideas will be sure to get you into the October mood!

Embrace your crafty side. From Pinterest to print magazines and dedicated DIY websites, look for creative and unusual ideas to bring fall colors and decorations into your home. Have a fun family night or host an adult-only get-together to create beautiful decorations and memories. 

Decorate more than your door. Your front entry may be the most obvious place to welcome your guests with a fall-inspired wreath, but if you look around, you may see other places that work too. Consider hanging one bursting with autumn colors over the fireplace, in the powder room, the foyer or in a guest room. 

Introduce the scents of autumn. “Sugar and spice and all things nice” is a good place to start when daydreaming about the aromas of fall. Candles, air fresheners – both electronic and tabletop – and essential oils abound with the scents of the season including warm sugary apples, pumpkin spice, cinnamon and other delicious “flavors.” 

Bring in the outside. During a walk look for beautiful leaves, pinecones and branches and design around them. Keep them as is or paint them beautiful colors and place in bowls, vases and on tables and sideboards. And always remember to pick up a pumpkin at your favorite patch or market for your front entry. 

If you are searching for a new home, San Joaquin Valley Homes is still busy building homes throughout the Central Valley. Our model homes are open daily and virtual tours are available on our website for your convenience. Our model hours are Sunday and Monday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit www.sjvhomes.com for more information.