3 Things to Consider to Ease Hosting...

Moving from Summer to Fall. Tips for thoughtfulness that will easy your hosting experience and a favorite image at the very bottom.

Between Lake Powell last week and South Dakota following just after, I’m really savoring the Aperol spritzes and tan skin, but perhaps I’m also moving toward being ready for actually needing a light sweater in my daily wear. It’s sparked me to begin emotionally wrapping my head around Summer slipping away and to start welcoming fall. I did see a red leaf while down by the Maples the other day— alas, it is upon us. I’m mentally filing through sentiments of the fragrance of wood-burning fires, a full glass of deep red wine in the evenings, slower moments with cozy blankets— it all invites me to get excited about ushering in the transition of season. I’ve learned that managing my expectations is more than half my internal battle, and dedicating time for preparation may feel cathartic— maybe some of you are like that, too? So, I spent some time refreshing this Summer Mood Board with August to September vibes—fresh recipes, a few pretty pictures, and outfit inspiration for that easy in-the-middle season of light layers that makes getting ready for the day so much fun.

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I'm digging through photos from August, and it feels like a pretty sweet time over the years. We could be making some pasta noodles, absorbing some warmer art, or grabbing a pen and some paper and seeing what happens—a letter, a sketch, something good will come…

August and September Things

Okay, now a few steps to help you have the tools to create space that feels a little more intentional, to remove that feeling where too much is extorted during prep, and that showcases home as a safe haven for connection with the one you’ve invited into your home.

FIRST
pause for thoughtfulness—

Anticipate where you will want to be in the home…think about one thing that you both love deeply. It can be an earthy fragranced candle, aged scotch, a book you both love or cozy blankets. Bring this item into the area that you want to be near.

Dining table? Roll the blanket up and put it on the bench, or drape it over the chair your guest will be sitting on and one over your seat.
Couch? Light that candle 30 minutes before your guest arrives in a nearby area.
Kitchen Bar Top? Place that beloved book somewhere nearby, stacked with a pretty journal and a small vase of flowers on top of the book or beside it. It can be a sweet, small gathering of greens if you don’t have fresh flowers on hand. Easy but thoughtful. I find it’s most pleasing to clump groups in 3 or 5.

SECOND
set the mood—