Personal Finance Resources: Financial Education & Literacy

Decorating for Fall on a Budget

Written by PSECU | Sep 1, 2023 12:00:00 PM

From pumpkins and gourds to comfortable sweaters and throws, fall provides plenty of inspiration for celebrating the season. Why not liven up your home décor by bringing the wonders and colors of nature inside?

Here are a few ways to decorate your home for autumn, no matter your budget.

Check Thrift Stores Year-Round

Many thrift stores and flea markets have a section dedicated to seasonal decorations so that you can purchase fall items year-round. Because decorations usually receive little use over the years, odds are you can find them in good condition at affordable prices.

Vintage decorations found in antique shops are also a great way to add some visual intrigue to your home. With a little extra wear and tear, these older decorations are particularly good for creating a spooky atmosphere for Halloween.

Consider searching online marketplaces if you’re having trouble finding what you want in stores.

Collect Leaves, Acorns, and Other Accents from Nature

Natural decorations are both affordable and eco-friendly, giving your home an earthy feeling. Branches are great for decorating a mantelpiece, while accents like pinecones and acorns can be used as decorations for vases, bowls, and table spreads. Natural accents are also good for creating festive table centerpieces that will add some flair to holiday dinners.

Don’t forget seasonal staples like heirloom pumpkins, mums, and gourds. Consider taking a trip to the farmers market to pick up autumnal gourds, pumpkins, and even apples to use for both decoration and meals. With a little bit of creativity and handiwork, you can turn your pumpkins and gourds into beautiful lanterns that biodegrade once the season is over.

Foraging and finding decorations for your home can be fun for the whole family. Collecting and preserving leaves and flowers is an excellent activity for children, and you can save the leaves and natural accents you find for future use with just a little bit of Mod Podge®.

Repurpose Your Current Decorations

Chances are that many of the decorations around your house are already perfect for the season. From chalkboards to bowls, there are plenty of opportunities to create autumn-inspired looks. You can even use items like window markers to embellish your home with festive designs.

Swapping out your everyday decorations with more autumnal colors is another affordable option. Consider replacing your usual throw pillows with yellow, orange, and red alternatives if you already have some on hand (or use covers!). Even items like scarves can be used as table runners or on mantelpieces to create a seasonal splash of color.

Look for Free Printables

Online printables are an affordable way to create a large volume of decorations with nothing more than paper and ink. Tap into your artistic side and you can even customize and transform printables you come across online.

You’ll find thousands of free printables for creating everything from autumnal signs and pendants to coloring pages. Printables can also make perfect party decorations for the Halloween and Thanksgiving holidays.

If you have young children, they’ll enjoy working on printables with you and displaying their work around the house. After they’ve finished an activity, you’ll have a memento to keep for years to come.

Get Ready for Fall with Our Founder’s Rewards Card

Whether you’re buying decorations, hosting a party, or putting together the perfect meal, our Founder’s Rewards Card will allow you to earn 2%* or 1.5% cash rewards on every purchase. Learn more and apply today.

*You can earn 1.5% cash rewards on purchases. You can earn 2% cash rewards on purchases if you maintain a PSECU checking account and qualifying monthly direct deposit(s) of at least $500. Some exclusions may apply.  See the Visa® Founder's Card and Visa® Alumni Rewards Card Rewards Program Terms and Conditions for full details.