The air is crisp, the leaves are revealing their warm-toned hues, and we’re once again embracing all the autumn season brings along with it. In this fall edition of “Bringing Back Whimsy,” we’re sharing our top tips for focusing on the art of noticing, trying something new, and turning the mundane into little moments of magic—all with a little autumnal touch.
Look no further for some whimsical ideas than the following:
- Create a simmer pot full of yummy ingredients to make your home smell divine. Think cinnamon sticks, rosemary, clove, bay leaves, pine, citrus fruit, etc. You could also pick up a cinnamon broom from local retailers like Kingma’s for all the cozy fall smells. Don’t forget to update your car air freshener, too!
- Visit local farmers markets for locally made goods and produce, whether it’s apple cider donuts, a pot of mums and some pumpkins for your porch, maple syrup for your pumpkin pancakes or lattes, etc.
- Be a kid again and hit up a corn maze or go for a hayride! There’s nothing like being out in nature with the crisp autumn air all around you. It’s also an awesome time to go for a fall camping trip—cold enough to not get sweaty and just warm enough to not have to bust out the snow pants.
- Curate a fall playlist. Whether it’s Vince Guaraldi Trio’s Great Pumpkin masterpiece or other songs that give you that comforting autumn vibe, having a ready-to-use playlist will come in handy for all of your seasonal adventures. And for Halloween in particular, create a playlist with some spooky word associations to keep the rotation fresh.
- Take a spooky or historic walk or walking tour around your town! You’re sure to learn something new—all while soaking in the sights.
- Get reading! Opt for books that lean into the coziness—or spookiness—of the season. Not sure where to start? Ask your local bookseller for recommendations.
- Remember that playlist we talked about? Well, bust it out and go for a nice leaf peeping walk, backroads drive, or bike ride! With the fall color window being so brief, you’ll be happy you took advantage of Mother Nature’s spectacular annual show.
- Cocktails with friends? Up the autumn ante by choosing ingredients that scream “fall!” Apple cider mimosas, spiked hot apple cider, mulled wine, spiced sangria, etc.
- Whether solo or with friends, plan some crafts to get your creative juices flowing. Some ideas include candle painting, felt working, tie blankets (which also make great gifts—millennials already know this), wreath crafting, etc. It’s the perfect time to begin making any holiday gifts you’ve got in mind, as well.
- Compile two movie checklists to ensure you make it through all your favorites this season: one for maximum autumn vibes and one for spooky Halloween vibes. Each can be lists you save and add to year after year, whether you’re into the classics or love a modern horror flick. You could also check out local movie screenings like those at Wealthy Theater or Getty Drive-In for peak nostalgia. Don’t forget the cider and popcorn!
- Have some cute sweaters in your closet you’ve been dying to be able to wear again? Embrace the colors of the season and dress to impress with hues like brown, orange, yellow, etc. You could even recreate outfits based off your favorite fall romcom character. Think: When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle, Practical Magic, etc. You could even match your fuzzy best friend with some pet sweaters, too!
- Have a phone-free puzzle night! Pour yourself a tall glass of something nice, crack the windows open, throw on a movie or football, and let yourself get lost in the pursuit of finally doing that puzzle you’ve had sitting on the shelf.
- Focus on the food aspect of the season by hosting a Friendsgiving gathering with friends where everyone brings a dish to pass. You could also have a seasonal soup swap or a friendly chili cookoff!
- The fall, it is said, is also when the veil between the living and those who have passed on is most thin. Visiting and paying your respects to your loved ones in their final resting places is always a good idea. You could also create an ofrenda, a decorated home altar set up to welcome and honor deceased loved ones during the annual Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration on November 1 and 2.
- Though not necessarily the most whimsical activity, consider doing a fall declutter or organization session, along with any prep you need to do to get your car or home ready for the winter season. Nobody says you can’t have a nice drink and loud playlist going while you do it!
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
Photos courtesy of Sarah Suydam.