5 DIY Fall Decor Projects to Try This Year

Fall is here, and with it comes cozy vibes, warm colors, and the perfect excuse to refresh your space. But don’t worry—you don’t need glitter explosions or all-day craft marathons to make your home feel festive. These 5 DIY fall decor projects are easy, low-mess, and guaranteed to bring seasonal charm with minimal effort.

🍂 1. A Foraged Foliage Centerpiece

Skip the faux leaves—take a quick walk outside and gather branches, dried grasses, or colorful leaves. Arrange them in a simple ceramic vase or glass jar. It looks artfully rustic, costs nothing, and changes as the season does.

Pro tip: Mix in a few store-bought stems (like eucalyptus) for staying power.

🕯 2. Candle Glow with a Twist

Take plain pillar candles and wrap them in a strip of burlap, velvet ribbon, or twine. Nestle them on a tray with acorns, pinecones, or mini pumpkins. Instant cozy mood lighting—no messy DIY candle-pouring required.

🎃 3. Painted Pumpkins (Zero Carving Required)

Carving is fun but messy. Instead, paint small pumpkins in chic shades: cream, sage green, or even metallics. Arrange them in clusters on your mantle, dining table, or front step for a stylish, modern take.

Bonus idea: Try stencils or simple patterns like polka dots or stripes if you’re feeling crafty.

🍎 4. Farmhouse-Style Bowl of Seasonal Finds

Grab a big wooden bowl and fill it with seasonal accents—apples, mini gourds, cinnamon sticks, or dried oranges. It doubles as decor and a sweet nod to fall harvest.

🖼 5. Frame It: Seasonal Prints or Quotes

Swap out art in one or two frames for fall-themed prints (think autumn landscapes, cozy quotes, or vintage botanical illustrations). It’s the easiest decor switch you’ll ever make and creates a big seasonal impact.

✨ Why These Work

These projects don’t require glue guns, glitter, or hours of effort. Instead, they lean on natural textures, cozy lighting, and simple swaps that bring maximum fall energy into your space with minimal cleanup.

We were in Paris..

Paris is one of those cities that feels golden at every corner — whether you’re sipping wine at a café, wandering through art-filled halls, or catching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night. Here’s what not to miss:

🥐 Must Eat

• Croissants at Stohrer — the oldest patisserie in Paris, buttery perfection.

• Aligot at Le Boui Boui — mashed potatoes whipped with cheese until they stretch like taffy (heaven).

• Hot chocolate at Angelina — thick, rich, and Paris in a cup.

• Dinner at Pink Mamma — buzzy Montmartre vibes, great pasta and cocktails.

• Rue Cler picnic + Eiffel Tower lights — baguette, cheese, wine, and pure magic.

• Classic brasseries like Bouillon Pigalle or Brasserie Dubillot — cozy, affordable Parisian comfort food.

🖼️ Must See

• Galeries Lafayette rooftop — one of the best (and free) views in Paris.

• Montmartre + Sacré-Cœur at sunset — golden light over the city.

• The Louvre — masterpieces galore, plus Napoleon’s Apartments.

• Musée d’Orsay + Musée de l’Orangerie — Impressionist heaven, Monet’s water lilies.

• Luxembourg Gardens + Panthéon — Left Bank charm and a panoramic payoff.

• Versailles day trip — the Hall of Mirrors and sprawling gardens are pure grandeur.

🚲 Must Do

• Stroll through Jardin du Palais Royal + Tuileries — perfect Parisian wandering.

• Take a walking tour — history comes alive from Notre Dame to the Louvre.

• River Seine cruise at night — the Eiffel Tower sparkles best from the water.

• Montmartre walking tour — Picasso, Van Gogh, and cabaret history all in one.

• Cheese + wine tasting — because Paris without fromage isn’t Paris.

• Explore trendy neighborhoods like Canal Saint-Martin + Le Marais — chic, vibrant, and full of energy.

🍫 Bonus: A Day in Brussels

If you’ve got time, hop on the train to Brussels. In one day you can:

• Snack on waffles from Maison Dandoy and fries from Fritland

• Marvel at the Grand Place and Galerie de la Reine

• Sip a beer at Delirium Café (they’ve got 2,000+ options)

✨ Paris is best when you balance the iconic with the everyday — the Eiffel Tower, yes, but also that perfect croissant. Add Brussels for a sweet side trip, and you’ve got a trip worth every golden memory.

Travel Bucket List: Europe Edition

Europe is overflowing with dream destinations, but sometimes the hardest part is choosing where to go next. If you’re anything like me, you want a trip that fits your vibe - whether that’s art, food, romance, or adventure. Here’s my take on six iconic European cities, so you can pick the one that feels like your next golden adventure.

🌹 Paris: If your vibe is romantic & chic

Paris is always a good idea. From sunset picnics by the Seine to wandering the Louvre or sipping coffee at a tiny café, the city makes everyday moments feel magical.

✨ Bucketlist moment: Snap your Eiffel Tower photo at sunrise before the crowds roll in.

Check out my personal trip highlights here.

🎭 London: If your vibe is classic & cool

London is where history meets modern energy. Think afternoon tea, West End shows, and cozy pubs mixed with edgy street art and trendy markets.

✨ Bucketlist moment: Catch a changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, then wander over to Notting Hill for pastel-perfect photos.

🏛️ Athens: If your vibe is ancient & adventurous

Athens is the ultimate city for history buffs. The Acropolis, Parthenon, and ruins around every corner feel like stepping back in time. But it’s not all ancient - the food, nightlife, and rooftop bars keep the city buzzing.

✨ Bucketlist moment: Watch the sunset from Lycabettus Hill with sweeping city views.

🏰 Prague: If your vibe is fairytale & charming

Prague feels straight out of a storybook, with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and its famous castle. It’s smaller and more walkable than the big capitals, which makes it perfect for slow exploring.

✨ Bucketlist moment: Stroll across Charles Bridge at dawn for dreamy, empty photos.

🎨 Barcelona: If your vibe is artsy & vibrant

Barcelona is a feast for the senses. Gaudí’s architecture feels like stepping into a painting, the tapas culture is unmatched, and the Mediterranean beaches are right there when you want to unwind.

✨ Bucketlist moment: Visit Park Güell for bold colors, sweeping views, and an iconic mosaic photo-op.

🍝 Rome: If your vibe is historic & delicious

Rome is living history - the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican are bucketlist staples. But honestly? The real magic is wandering piazzas, eating gelato twice a day, and soaking in la dolce vita.

✨ Bucketlist moment: Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain for good luck (and the perfect pic).

✨ Final Thoughts

No matter which city you choose, Europe has a way of sparking joy in every traveler. Start with the vibe that feels most like you, and let that guide your next adventure. (Spoiler: you really can’t go wrong.)

Stay tuned - I’ll be sharing my personal individual city guides soon!

Girl, I’ve got you.

Falling for Fall

Crisp air, golden leaves, cozy layers… Fall is finally here! After a blistering summer, the first cool mornings have me dreaming of my favorite things about this season. If you’re ready to savor every moment, here’s your go-to list of fun, cozy, and feel-good Golden Fall activities.

.🍂 Get Outside

Leaf Peeping: Take a walk, drive, or hike—snap a few photos for your feed while you’re at it.

Pumpkin Patches & Apple Picking: Weekend vibes = picking your own autumn treasures.

Festivals & Markets: Craft fairs, Fall festivals, local treats—shop, sip, and stroll.

☕ Cozy Indoors

Bake & Savor: Apple pie, cinnamon rolls, soups—your kitchen is officially a comfort zone.

Create a Reading Nook: Throw, candle, book = instant hygge.

Movie & Game Nights: Hot cocoa + classic cozy movies = perfection.

🛁 Seasonal Self-Care

Warm Baths & Skincare: Hydrate, relax, and indulge.

Journaling & Reflection: Plan, dream, or just jot down gratitude.

Crafts & DIY: Knit, stitch, or make your own fall décor—therapy + creativity.

🤝 Connect & Celebrate

Host a Mini Gathering: Potluck, wine night, or small dinner party.

Outdoor Fun With Friends: Hayrides, corn mazes, or a casual football game.

Volunteer: Give back and add an extra layer of golden to your season.

✨ Quick Fall Mood Boosters

Swap your coffee for a pumpkin latte.

Light a seasonal candle.

Pull out your favorite cozy sweater.

Take 10 minutes to enjoy the fresh air daily.

Fall is short, but the memories are long. Make time for cozy mornings, crisp adventures, and golden moments that stick with you. This season, do what feels good, look for the little joys, and enjoy everything Always Golden. Girl, I’ve got you.

7 Hobbies That Add Joy to Your Everyday Life

Life feels a little brighter when you have something that sparks joy outside of the daily grind. Hobbies aren’t just “nice to have” — they’re proven to boost creativity, reduce stress, and add meaning to your days. Whether you’ve got five minutes or a free weekend, here are seven hobbies that fit seamlessly into your life and bring a golden glow to the everyday.

Social Games

Games aren’t just for kids. Right now, mahjong has taken center stage — and for good reason. It’s fun, strategic, and even better when shared with friends. Social games like mahjong, pickleball, or even a monthly game night bring connection, laughter, and a chance to unwind.

💡 Golden Tip: Search for mahjong groups in your area — many cities have open-play communities that welcome beginners!

Reading

Few things feel as restorative as curling up with a good book. Reading isn’t just entertaining — it expands your perspective, sparks creativity, and gives you a quiet pause in a busy world.

💡 Golden tip: Don’t sleep on your local library (physical books, audiobooks, and ebooks galore!) or thrift stores for hidden gem finds to grow your shelves.

✨ Stay tuned — I’ll be sharing some of my recent reads on the blog soon!

Baking (Yes, Even Sourdough)

Okay, maybe sourdough is back with its Taylor Swift era moment, but baking never really goes out of style. There’s something grounding about mixing, kneading, and pulling something warm from the oven. It’s equal parts creative outlet and comfort.

I’ve been loving The Perfect Loaf for all things sourdough (not just bread). Their site is amazing, and their cookbook has earned a permanent spot in my kitchen. Bonus: lots of sourdough goodies freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy your creations weeks after baking.

✨ Why it sparks joy: You get to enjoy the process and the delicious results (extra joy points if you share with neighbors or coworkers).

Creative Crafts

Needlepoint, crochet, or even a simple paint-by-numbers kit — crafts are the perfect way to slow down and use your hands. They’re especially lovely for evenings when you want to unplug and wind down. Browse Target for some fun DIY kits!

💡 Golden tip: Start small. Pick a kit or project you can finish in one or two sessions. That little sense of accomplishment? Chef’s kiss.

Gardening

Gardening doesn’t have to mean a full-on backyard overhaul. Growing a basil plant on your windowsill, tucking bulbs into the soil for spring blooms, or keeping a few pots of herbs on your porch can be just as rewarding.

This past summer, my basil thrived — endless batches of pesto were made. And this fall? Let’s just say I may have gone slightly overboard ordering bulbs.

✨ Why it sparks joy: Watching something grow under your care is grounding, mindful, and incredibly rewarding.

Travel + Day Trips

You don’t need an international adventure (though yes, please) to get the thrill of travel. A quick day trip to a nearby town or a weekend getaway can spark just as much joy. And honestly? Planning your next adventure can be half the fun.

💡 Golden tip: Make a “local bucket list” of restaurants, hikes, or small towns within driving distance. You’ll always have something fun to look forward to.

Volunteering

Giving your time might just be the most fulfilling hobby of all. Whether you’re helping at a food share, supporting a local nonprofit, or spending time with animals, volunteering builds connection and layers your life with deeper meaning.

✨ Why it sparks joy: It’s a powerful reminder that what you do matters — to others, and to yourself.

Final Thoughts ✨

The best hobby is the one that fits into your life and makes it brighter. Try one (or a few!) of these and see where they take you. Because joy doesn’t need to wait for weekends or vacations — you can find it in the everyday.

Girl, I’ve got you.

Morning Habits That Actually Stick

Start Your Day Off Right ✨

There’s something about mornings that set the tone for the whole day. When I stick to little rituals that make me feel good, everything else seems to fall into place. Lately, these are the habits I’ve been loving for a brighter, more balanced start:

Sip on something you enjoy
For me, it’s coffee. For you, maybe it’s tea, lemon water, or a cozy caffeine-free ritual. Whatever it is, let it be a little moment of comfort to ease you into the day.

Do your skincare
Take a couple of minutes to refresh your face, apply your moisturizer, and feel that “I’m ready for the world” glow.

Wear your SPF
Yes, every day. Yes, even when it’s cloudy. Future you will thank you!

Move your body
It doesn’t have to be a 60-minute sweat session - five minutes of stretching, a walk around the block, or a quick dance to your favorite song counts. The key is to move in a way that feels good and works with your schedule. Personally, I love walking my dog first thing in the morning—it wakes me up, gets me moving, and checks off my next habit in one go.

Get outside
Fresh air and natural light do wonders for your energy and mood. If the weather cooperates, spend at least a few minutes outside first thing. Bonus: morning sun helps regulate your circadian rhythm (aka your body’s internal clock). And yes… don’t forget SPF (mentioning twice because it’s so imporant 😉).

Fuel your body
Breakfast doesn’t need to be fancy, but having something nourishing in the morning makes a difference. Smoothie, eggs, avocado toast, or even a handful of fruit—listen to your body and give it some love.

Show love
Hug your partner, pet your pup, send a quick “thinking of you” text to your bestie, or call your mom. A tiny connection can instantly lift your mood.

Screen free moment
Read a few pages, journal, draw.. pick something your gravitate towards. It’s such a grounding way to start the day before diving into emails and notifications.

Dress for your best
Throw on something that makes you feel put together - whether that’s a chic outfit or your coziest sweats. Confidence often starts with what’s on your body.

Sprinkle in positivity
Cue up your favorite playlist, jot down a gratitude or two, smile at yourself in the mirror - it’s all about setting the vibe for the day ahead.

Final Thought 🌞

Now, this list may sound like a lot. And honestly? Some mornings I only manage two or three of these. That’s okay! Everyone’s energy (and time) looks different. Start small - try adding one new habit each week and notice how it feels. Before long, your mornings will be less “rush and chaos” and more “always golden.”

Girl, I’ve got you.