As the leaves start to fall and turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, it's time to welcome the beauty of autumn into our homes and lives.

Fall is a season that provides us with an abundance of inspiration, and I am here for it all! For me, there's no better way to celebrate it than by adorning our space with budget-friendly, nature-inspired decor.

I like to take a simple approach (yet still make a striking statement) to my fall decorating by incorporating elements from the great outdoors.

There are so many beautiful things outside that can be used inside the home! No need to go and spend yet another Dollar ;-)

Scroll down to see how I achieve a cozy and inviting fall atmosphere without breaking the bank.

The Mantle Makeover

Our mantle is always one of my main focus points when decorating for any season. It is the focal point of our living area, around which many of our family activities revolve.

I wanted to create an inviting and warm atmosphere but still keep it “alive” and fresh. And what better way to do that than by using large greenery branches.

I gathered these magnolia branches in my backyard, and with a little cleaning and trimming, they became the perfect backdrop for my fall display. I love how the beautiful deep green colors of the leaves add a lively pop of color.

Not everything has to be warm, neutral tones, and it is actually a refreshing twist! As they dry they will be more muted and It will blend right in with the rest of our fall decor.

Gather Dried Hydrangeas

Dried hydrangeas are my fall decorating secret weapon. They maintain their vibrant colors, transforming from summer pastels to rich autumn hues.

I had some hydrangeas from my garden that I let air dry, but you can easily find dried hydrangeas at your local craft store if you don't have any on hand.

Placing them in vases or simply scattering them along the mantle adds a touch of elegance and natural beauty.

Dried Gourds & Corn

One of the most iconic symbols of fall is, of course, pumpkins. But instead of buying new ones each year, I chose to reuse last year's dried gourds and pumpkins. They have a timeless appeal and can easily be incorporated into your decor.

Corn was in abundance this season, especially the mixed-colored variety ( Glass Gem is my favorite to plant and is a popcorn variety) . So naturally, they had to be included in my fall decor! Their kaleidoscope of colors makes for a visually appealing look and talking point!

Gourds and mini faux pumpkins placed around the mantle and in our reading nook add that iconic fall touch.

Dried corn laid in a weave basket is really all you need to do for an interesting table arrangement!

If you don't have any gourds or dried corn from previous years, thrift stores often carry them at a fraction of the cost of fresh pumpkins and corn. Thrifting is the name of the game, friend!

Nature's Palette

When designing your budget-friendly fall decor, think about the color palette that nature offers during this season. Earthy tones like browns, oranges, reds, soft yellows, and brass and gold usually take center stage.

But I do want to encourage you not to be afraid to be bold and add a surprising element or color! My bold color this year was green. Last year it was bright yellow sunflowers!

See here how I decorated for fall last year

Cozy it up!

Oh yes, it is time to bring out all the coziness you can lay your hands on!

🍂Wool throws and flannel blankets to keep you warm and cuddly.

🍂Extra scatter cushions for more comfort (sorry husbands!).

🍂Warm lighting, like candles or string lights, to create a soft and welcoming ambiance.

🍂Books to get lost in your thoughts and slow down after the summer season.

🍂And maybe an extra rug or two to keep those little feet warm and happy!

Simplicity is Key

The beauty of this natural-inspired fall decor is in its simplicity. Nature provides an array of colors and textures that blend harmoniously, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

By using elements from your own garden or yard, you not only save money but also reduce waste and appreciate the beauty that surrounds you daily.

I strongly believe that we don’t need more stuff, but more moments. Keeping your space and decor simple will lead to a clear mind, a calm environment, and a happy life!

P.s. Don’t get me wrong, I love a gorgeous, over-the-top tablescape or a beautifully decorated entryway!

DIY Projects

If you're feeling crafty, there are plenty of DIY projects you can undertake to enhance your fall decor without spending much. Here are a few ideas:

Leaf Garland: Collect fallen leaves, press them, and then string them together with twine to create a beautiful garland.
Pinecone Centerpiece: Gather pinecones and arrange them in a bowl or basket. You can even paint or glitter them for added flair. See how we decorate pinecones here.
Acorn Decor: Acorns can be used in various ways, from filling clear glass vases to creating unique table centerpieces.
Fill a bowl or wire basket with green apples or pears for a simple yet colorful arrangement.
Homemade Wreaths: Craft your own wreath using twigs, leaves, and dried flowers. It's a fun and budget-friendly project that adds a personal touch to your decor.

See here how I decorated in 2021!

Enjoy the Outdoors

Finally, don't forget to spend some time outside during the fall season. Take a nature walk to collect leaves, branches, and other natural elements for your decor. It's a great way to connect with the season and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.

Fall decor doesn't have to be expensive or overly elaborate. By embracing the simplicity and beauty of nature, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home without breaking the bank.

This year, take a cue from the changing leaves and let your fall decor reflect the natural splendor of the season.

Happy decorating!