August 31, 2017 — By Marirose Krall  

9 Reasons To Love Fall

Look, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but we all saw this coming. Labor Day weekend is upon us. And, perhaps because New Jersey is a coastal state, Labor Day in these parts seems like an extra poignant signal of the end of summer indulgence. If the thought of packing away the beach towels leaves you a bit melancholy (me too), cheer up! There’s so much to look forward to in autumn.

1. Pumpkins!

And squash and hay bales and mums and cornstalks. Fully embracing autumn decorating sets a new tone for a new season.

  • Photo: Katrina Mojzesz, Design NJ October/November 2014
    Design: Irwin Weiner
    Builder: Sean Tracy

     

    2. Savory Meals

    Soups and stews and other things that simmer fill the kitchen with mouth-watering scents.

    • Photo: Katrina Mojzesz, Design NJ October/November 2014
      Design: Irwin Weiner
      Builder: Sean Tracy

       

      3. Warm Baths

      Grab a fluffy towel, light some candles and you’ve got a soothing sanctuary after a chilly day.

      • Photo: Katrina Mojzesz, Design NJ October/November 2014
        Design: Irwin Weiner
        Builder: Sean Tracy

         

        4. Outdoor Activities

        Slip into a sweater and enjoy the crisp air. (No humidity!)

        • Photo: John Martinelli, Design NJ October/November 2013
          Design: Jacqui Croft
          Builder: Father Nature Landscaping & Construction

           

          5. A Sip of Wine

          A nice red hits the spot when the temperature dips.

          • Photo: Peter Rymwid, Design NJ October/November 2011
            Design: Carisa Mahnken Design Guild

             

            6. A Well-Made Bed

            Piled high with pillows and draped with throws, it’s a warm and inviting spot to curl up with a book or a TV show (or a friend).

            • Photo: Peter Rymwid, Design NJ August/September 2011
              Design: Mary R. Sferra

               

              7. Indoor Entertainment

              A friendly game passes the time on a cold afternoon.

              • Photo: Marisa Pellegrini, Design NJ February/March 2013
                Design: Linda Maley

                 

                8. A Crackling Fire

                Because nothing’s cozier on a cold, dark night.

                • Photo: Phillip Ennis, Design NJ October/November 2016
                  Design: Barbara Ostrom

                   

                  9. Fabulous Feasts

                  Set an elegant table, prepare some hearty food and share the warmth of your home with friends as you celebrate the change of seasons.

                  • Photo: David Van Scott, Design NJ April/May 2009
                    Tabletop design: Jay Smith and Jeanne Benner