Even though Daylight Savings Time doesn’t end until November 6th this year, I really start to notice the shortening of days as we get into September. Just when the weather’s nice enough to enjoy some al fresco dining, it seems like I no longer have enough time at the end of a workday to get a meal prepared and out to the patio before the sun is waning. Autumn is a good time to begin supplementing our solar deprivation with a little fire. Candle light is pretty magical in the way it transforms a space, creating a romantic and cozy ambiance. That’s why my third installment of Fall Style at Home is all about candles.
I admit, I’m a bit of a candle-holic. I burn them year round and for all occasions. Candles come in every size, shape, color and scent combination imaginable, but for every day use I like to keep a stock of basic tea lights, votives and pillars. This makes it very simple to switch out candle holders and incorporate them into a seasonal decorating scheme. Here are four easy-to-execute autumn inspired ideas:
Fall leaves dress up basic jars. Courtesy of RealSimple.com
Acorns, pecans, hazelnuts and other nuts make a good filler. Courtesy of favorcreative.com
This would make a beautiful Thanksgiving centerpiece. Courtesy of barefootfloor.com
Plus a couple of ideas I came up with, just using what I had on hand around the house:
In addition to casting a magical glow, candles can also set the mood with a seasonal scent. For fall and winter, I love savory fragrances that remind me of baking, or forest-infused scents. My personal opinion is that with scented candles, you get what you pay for. The best quality ones cost a bit more, but give off a more pleasing and room-filling aroma. They also tend to last longer. Here are a few Carolina sources for candles, all courtesy of Etsy.com:
White tea & ginger scented soy votives by preciousflames of Greenville, NC.
Cape Fear Courtyard soy wax candle by sawgrasscandles of Wilmington, NC.
For anyone interested in learning more about fall decorating, Pottery Barn is hosting a class called “How to Decorate Your Home for Autumn” on Sunday, September 18th at the SouthPark, Charlotte location. Call to reserve a spot: 704-442-9493.