RLast season I encouraged everyone to remember that hospitality and joy aren’t cancelled and suggested decorating front porches. I’m happy to report I followed my own advice and gave our porch a little fall refresh. It’s simple, affordable, and instantly uplifting — a copper pot of mums and a few pumpkins really do brighten the entry and lift the mood for everyone who walks by.
I created a tiny fall vignette inside a porch lantern using small pumpkins, wheat-like bunny tail foliage, and a strand of copper wire string lights. The effect is cozy and welcoming without taking up much space — perfect for a small porch.
Because our porch is compact, I focused on a few thoughtfully placed pieces rather than crowding the area. Keeping the display pared-down makes it feel intentional and cozy rather than cluttered.
The color of these mums is absolutely gorgeous — their warm tones add instant fall charm and contrast nicely with the copper planter.
I also assembled a small door basket with a few plants to add another layered touch at the entry. A door basket is an easy way to introduce texture and height without taking up valuable porch space.
By day the lantern arrangement is charming, and at night the copper string lights give it a warm glow. I haven’t managed to capture the perfect nighttime photo yet, but the soft lighting makes the whole porch feel inviting after dark.
Did you decorate your porch this year? I’d love to see it!
– Tag me on Instagram @theinspiredroom (I enjoy sharing posts when you tag me!)
– Or post in The Inspired Room Community Facebook group — it’s a great place to share ideas.
I’d love to see your lanterns and porch styling all season long.
Happy fall nesting!
Lantern Sources:
My exact lantern is currently sold out, but there are several similar options that work well. Some styles hang directly from a mounting mechanism; others can be suspended with a simple lantern hook. Choose one that fits your porch scale and hang height.
A wide-neck brass lantern looks lovely filled with pumpkins and faux gourds. Square or curved black lanterns are also beautiful and suit many exterior styles.
For extra warmth and texture, pair your lantern with a copper planter, a welcoming doormat, and wheat or bunny tail foliage. Battery-operated copper string lights with a timer add a cozy evening glow without wiring.
More Sources:
A large door basket is great for plants and seasonal accents. A copper planter and natural-look faux foliage make styling easy and long-lasting. A friendly doormat helps set the tone before guests even step inside.
Catch up on my Fall Nesting Series:
Tips to Decorate Your Fall Living Room
Fall Kitchen Accessories
Cozy Fall Throw Blankets
My Favorite Fall Decor in the Cozy Fall Shop
14 Ideas for a Cozy Fall Kitchen
Make Your Home the Coziest It Can Be (3 take-away tips)
Fall Puttering Music Playlist
Cozy Self-Care Corner Must-Haves
Four Essential Home-Making Practices for Every Season
Fall Nesting and Doormats
How to Dwell Well This Fall
How to Decorate with Faux Fall Foliage
Timeless Pieces for Your Home
Hospitality and Joy Are Not Cancelled (Decorate Your Porch)
How to Make Your Home Smell Cozy and Inviting
How to Create a Memorable Fall Home + Cozy Diffuser Blends
The Best Gluten-Free Dutch Baby Recipe
The Most Regrettable Decorating Mistake You Can Make
Tour the 2020 Southern Living Idea House