Ask Mrs. Mayfair: Favorite Fall Activities at Home
Dear Mrs. Mayfair,
I love fall and want to make the most of the season at home. What are your favorite activities to enjoy during these cozy months?
— Autumn Enthusiast
Dear Autumn Enthusiast,
Ah, fall—there is no season quite like it. It’s the perfect time to slow down, savor the comforts of home, and embrace the beauty of nature as it changes all around us. I’ve always believed that fall invites us to reconnect with the simple joys of life, and my favorite activities at home reflect just that.
Here are some of the ways I love to spend my time during this magical season:
1. Cozy Afternoons by the Fire
As soon as the air turns crisp, I find myself drawn to the hearth. There’s nothing quite like a cozy afternoon spent by the fire, wrapped in a soft blanket with a good book and a cup of spiced tea or hot cocoa. Whether I’m alone or enjoying time with family, these moments of stillness are some of my most cherished fall traditions.
Tip: Keep a basket of throw blankets and extra firewood close to your fireplace or outdoor fire pit for easy access. And don’t forget to light a few candles around the room to enhance the warmth and ambiance.
2. Baking Seasonal Treats
Fall is synonymous with the warm, inviting aromas of baking. I always look forward to spending time in the kitchen, whipping up seasonal favorites like pumpkin bread, apple pie, or spiced scones. There’s something so comforting about the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through the house—it’s truly the scent of the season.
Tip: For a quick autumn treat, try baking a batch of homemade cinnamon rolls. The smell alone is worth the effort, and they make the perfect breakfast or afternoon snack. Make sure to take pictures of the kids with their sticky fingers and mouths dripping with glaze - these are the memories you will cherish for years to come in your life.
3. Setting a Beautiful Fall Table
One of my favorite fall activities is setting a seasonal table, even for casual meals. I love incorporating natural elements, such as mini pumpkins, colorful leaves, and candles, to create a warm, inviting setting. Whether I’m hosting a brunch or a simple dinner with family, a thoughtfully designed tablescape makes every meal feel special.
Tip: You don’t need a special occasion to set a beautiful table. Even a weekday dinner can be elevated with fall-inspired linens, candles, a small floral arrangement and music. For me, music is always essential in setting the tone. Try typing simple words such as Fall on Spotify's search and you will be surprised with how many beautiful playlists you will discover.
4. Taking Walks in the Garden
Though the garden changes with the season, fall is one of the most beautiful times to be outdoors. I love bundling up in a cozy sweater and taking a walk through the garden, enjoying the vibrant colors of the turning leaves. It’s also the perfect time to plant bulbs for the spring and prepare the garden for the colder months.
Tip: Don’t forget to collect some of nature’s treasures while you’re outside. Dried leaves, acorns, and branches can make lovely, natural decor elements for your home.
5. Hosting Intimate Gatherings
As the weather cools, I find that fall is the perfect time for hosting intimate gatherings at home. Whether it’s a Sunday brunch, an afternoon tea, or a cozy dinner party, I love creating an atmosphere where friends and family can relax and enjoy good food and conversation. Fall menus are always a treat, with hearty soups, savory pies, and warming desserts like apple crisps and spiced puddings.
Tip: For an outdoor gathering, consider using your fire pit as the centerpiece. Offer cozy blankets to guests and serve warm drinks like mulled wine or cider for a festive, seasonal touch.
6. Enjoying Seasonal Crafts
Fall is also a wonderful time for getting creative at home. I often spend an afternoon creating natural room sprays or arranging dried flowers for the house. It’s a lovely way to bring the beauty of the outdoors inside and add a personal touch to your decor.
Tip: A simple DIY room spray can be made using spices, vanilla, oranges and essential oils. It’s a wonderful way to welcome the season and adds instant fall charm to your moments at home.
7. Movie Nights with Family
As the evenings grow darker and colder, there’s nothing better than settling in for a movie night with loved ones. I like to gather the family, pop some popcorn, and watch classic films under a pile of cozy blankets. It’s a simple tradition, but one that brings so much joy and togetherness.
Tip: Make your movie night special by serving warm apple cider or hot chocolate and lighting a few candles to create a cozy atmosphere. At home, we keep a ginger jar filled with movie suggestions. Anyone can write down a movie idea on a piece of paper and add it to the jar. When you need a suggestion, simply draw one from the jar. It adds a fun element of surprise to your evening!
Fall is a season of warmth, comfort, and connection—whether to nature, to our homes, or to those we hold dear. I hope these activities inspire you to embrace the beauty of autumn and fill your days with cozy, joyful moments.
Warmly,
Mrs. Mayfair
In Living Beautifully, it’s always the little things that make the biggest difference. Whether you're enjoying a quiet moment by the fire or gathering loved ones for a meal, fall offers endless opportunities to create lasting memories in the comfort of your home.
Written by Melissa Rubini Smith
