Do you love taking walks in the fall? I do!
I know many people turn to stores, Pinterest, or blogs for decorating ideas, but for me there’s nothing more inspiring than a simple walk outdoors. Nature offers endless creativity — colors, textures, and found objects like branches, pine cones, and leaves that spark new ideas.
Right now, a breath of air outside my door smells just like Christmas trees. That’s one of the joys of living in the Northwest: abundant, beautiful evergreens and that wonderful pine scent.
On many walks I collect sticks, branches, pine cones, and other natural treasures. They’re perfect for seasonal vignettes, mantel displays, or a simple arrangement in a vase.
Two years ago I found a branch to hang Christmas ornaments from my window.
This fall I gathered branches with colorful leaves to place in a hurricane vase on my mantel.
But this week — on what might have been the most glorious autumn day yet — I discovered a bounty of branches beneath some trees: birch limbs, moss-covered sticks, and small logs. I was ecstatic.
I might have let out a little squeal of joy when I found them and affectionately called them “my pretties.” I may have gathered so many the car had to make a second trip to bring everything home. I even found one branch taller than my front door.
Needless to say, I’m excited to incorporate these finds into my holiday decorating plans. Branches add height, texture, and natural beauty to arrangements, and they work beautifully in vases, on mantels, porches, or as simple sculptural accents.
Where do you like to find branches?
Front porch arrangement using branches (inspired by Pottery Barn styling)
Branches are versatile, budget-friendly, and lend an organic, seasonal touch to any space. Try placing them in tall vases, weaving lights or ornaments through them, or arranging them with pine cones and greenery for a simple, elegant display.