REarlier I encouraged everyone to remember that hospitality and joy aren’t canceled and suggested decorating front porches. I took my own advice and decorated mine — a small, simple display that brings us a lot of happiness and hopefully brightens the street for neighbors too. A copper pot filled with vivid mums and a few pumpkins can really lift your spirits.
I created a tiny fall vignette inside my porch lantern using small pumpkins, wheat-like stems known as “bunny tails,” and a strand of delicate copper wire string lights. It’s an easy and affordable way to add seasonal charm. (Sources are listed later in the post.)
Our porch is small, so I keep decorations minimal and budget-friendly. A restrained approach makes each element stand out and keeps the entry feeling welcoming rather than cluttered.
The color of these mums is gorgeous — rich, warm tones that read as fall without feeling fussy.
I also made a small door basket filled with a few plants to add texture and life right by the entrance.
At night the lantern glows beautifully with the string lights inside, creating a warm, inviting focal point. I haven’t captured the perfect nighttime photo yet, but it looks lovely when lit.
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 it in The Inspired Room Community Facebook group — it’s free and I’d love to see your ideas.
I’d love to see lanterns, door baskets, and seasonal touches year-round.
Happy fall nesting!
Lantern Sources:
The exact lantern I used is currently sold out, but there are similar options that work well. My lantern attached directly to the house, but any of these styles can be hung with a simple lantern hook.
Brass wide neck lantern — looks beautiful filled with pumpkins and other fall accents.
Square black lantern — a clean, classic option that works with many styles.
Curved black lantern — a slightly softer silhouette that still reads traditional.
I’ve shared more lantern styling ideas in a previous post for non-electric outdoor wall lanterns.
More Sources:
Door basket (I used the large size), copper battery-operated string lights with timer and remote, a copper planter, a welcoming doormat, and wheat/bunny tail foliage are all simple elements that combine to create a cozy fall entry.
Catch up on my 2020 Fall Nesting Series:
Tips to Decorate Your Fall Living Room
Fall Kitchen Accessories
Cozy Fall Throw Blankets
My Favorite Fall Decor in My Cozy Fall Shop
14 Ideas for a Cozy Fall Kitchen
Make Your Home the Coziest It Can Be (3 Takeaway 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