As the air turns crisp and nature shifts to golden hues, fall offers a special chance to bring the outdoors in. With the season of gathering just around the corner, we find ourselves reminiscing about past autumn soirées where this very idea took center stage. Foraging fallen leaves, branches, and other natural elements has always been one of our favorite ways to infuse a home with the beauty of the season. Whether you’re crafting a cozy vignette or setting a festive tablescape, these simple finds effortlessly elevate any space with their organic charm.
Why Forage?
Foraging for natural décor is not only a sustainable way to celebrate the changing seasons but also a deeply personal one. By gathering elements from your own backyard or a favorite local park, you can create displays that feel uniquely yours—each piece telling its own story. Plus, foraged items bring a warmth and authenticity that store-bought decorations simply can’t match.
What to Look For:
When foraging for fall décor, we recommend seeking out:
- Colorful Leaves: Look for maple, oak, and birch leaves in shades of red, orange, yellow, and even deep purples. Their bold colors instantly bring that fall feeling indoors.
- Branches: Bare branches or those still holding on to a few leaves can make striking accents. Pay attention to interesting shapes, textures, and even moss or lichen for an organic touch.
- Pinecones and Acorns: These smaller elements are perfect for adding dimension to arrangements or scattering across tables and mantles.
- Evergreens: Don’t forget to mix in a few evergreen branches for contrast. Their deep greens balance out the fiery tones of autumn and keep arrangements looking fresh.
How to Use Your Finds:
Once you’ve gathered your fall treasures, the possibilities are endless! Here are a few ways to style your foraged finds:
- Mantel Displays: Create a cascading arrangement of branches and leaves across your mantel, adding height and texture for an eye-catching focal point.
- Table Centerpieces: Combine a mix of foraged elements like branches, pinecones, and acorns with candles for a rustic yet refined tablescape. You can find our tried and true formula to mastering the fall tablescape here!
- Wreaths and Garlands: DIY your own wreath or garland by weaving together branches and leaves, adding in fall flowers or ribbon for a personal touch.
- Vases and Vessels: Simply placing a few striking branches in a vase can make a bold statement. Try mixing heights and textures to keep it visually interesting.
Caring for Your Foraged Décor:
To keep your foraged items looking fresh, try spraying leaves with a light mist of water to preserve their color. You can also dry them for longer-lasting décor—simply press them between heavy books for a few days to flatten and preserve their beauty. For branches, a quick shake outdoors will remove any insects, and a coat of clear spray can help maintain their natural look indoors.
In Conclusion…
Foraging natural elements is a simple yet meaningful way to embrace fall while adding warmth and texture to your home. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or simply enjoying the change in season, incorporating foraged leaves and branches reflects the thoughtful, organic approach we value in design. These subtle touches celebrate the season’s natural beauty, offering an effortless way to elevate your space and create a timeless connection to the outdoors—an ethos we carry through every project.
