Welcome Autumn Into Your Home!

As I am sitting here writing this blog, I feel a cool breeze flow through my open window and I am watching the leaves blow in the wind. The feeling of autumn envelopes me and has inspired me to share simple decorating tips to transition your home into the fall season.

It would be wonderful if we all had the time, patience, and resources to re-do the rooms in our homes with the change of each season. Short of changing the paint, flooring, and furniture, there are a number of simple ways to welcome autumn into your home. By adding some of these decorating touches, you will also be welcoming friends and family to enjoy autumn as well.

• Bring the colors of autumn to your front porch. A wreath in golden, earthy hues placed on the door brings your attention directly to it. With Halloween and Thanksgiving approaching, bales of hay and corn stalks can find a place on your porch or strategically placed in your front yard. Pumpkins, squash, and gourds in various colors and shapes add a nice touch as well. If you have furniture on your porch, consider placing cushions in autumn colors or throws on them.
• Use the natural fruits and vegetables of the season as a centerpiece for your table. Make a ring of gourds and place a bowl of different colored apples in the center. Place a coordinating tablecloth underneath. Consider introducing new dishes in autumn colors to complete the look on your table.
• Finally, the fireplace is back! The time has come to highlight the fireplace once again. Decorate with ribbons in earthy hues. The fireplace mantel is a great place for pictures of your family placed in wooden frames. Create pieces of art out of leaves, pinecones, and acorns to accompany the frames. 
• Break out the blankets. Have throws easily accessible by all informal seating areas. The throws can be heavier than the ones used in spring an summer just inviting you to kick off your shoes and snuggle in!
• Change curtains to slightly darker colors and heavier fabric to help create a feeling of warmth.
• Fill mason jars with candy corn for tasty treats. 
• Place pillar candles in warm colors around the rooms.
• Fill your home with the aroma of delicious comfort foods such as apple pie.

The change of seasons offers the opportunity to re-invent your home, even if just a little bit. Cooler weather means spending more time indoors. Create a warm, welcoming environment that you and your friends and family will look forward to spending time in.  Need ideas? Call Marc Williams Furniture and speak with one of our profession interior designers!

Choosing Artwork for Your Home

Choosing artwork for your home can be a fun and exciting task.  After all, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to art so this can be your chance to really show your personality! While the rules are flexible, here are some guidelines to bear in mind:

• The art in your home is an expression of you.  Choose styles and themes that you love and commit and to them. Take time to find pieces that you treasure.
• Consider your budget and plan accordingly. Perhaps begin with one or two expensive pieces and add on as your budget allows. 
• Consider the room you where the artwork will be placed. The living room may be a good choice for a bright and bold piece which calls for conversation while the bedroom calls for calming and soothing pieces to help guide you towards slumber.
• Think about the size of the room and the statement you wish the artwork to make. Will the painting be the main focal point? If so, a large piece prominently displayed will work well. If not,  take a look at what the main focal point is and choose a piece that compliments it well. 

Most importantly, have fun! Find pieces that create feelings of comfort, excitement, and happiness in YOU. Although you want your guests to enjoy the artwork, it is there for you to enjoy on a daily basis. Have questions?  Call Marc Williams Furniture and speak with one of our designers!