By Mi-Ling Stone Poole 

In my part of the country the leaves are beginning to change and fall has arrived.

This is exciting for me because fall is my absolute favorite time of the year. And when it comes to decorating, I can’t wait to warm up my space and say goodbye to the long hot summer days.

What I like most about fall is the opportunity to cozy up and enjoy the inside of my home as well as beginning to prepare for the holiday season that follows.

Here are a few quick and easy tips to get you started on creating your fall décor on a budget!

Purchase fresh pumpkins, gourds and mums and place them around your home in baskets and in the entryway.  At the end of the year you can purchase off-season faux pumpkins and gourds and utilize them year after year for just pennies.

Layer your home with rugs, throws and pillows that represent the warm colors of autumn.  The hot colors for fall include light blue sure to relax you and obviously green orange yellow, gold, brown and cream for contrast.

If you have a room that needs a big boost of color, place a colorful screen in the corner or behind a chair for an instant fall fix.

Continue on to your bathroom and create a custom shower curtain with beautiful fabric. Rugs, towels and other items can be purchased on sale. Don’t be afraid to mix and match your towels for more impact.

Just changing a lampshade in your bedroom or switching out the finial on the top of the shade can spice things up.

In the kitchen layer your table with color and use fresh pumpkins and greenery to add texture.

Don’t forget to add candles and oils to your décor. My favorites are fresh cinnamon boiling in a pan or apple and pumpkin scents.

Now that you’re in the mood for fall, head to the kitchen and bake an apple pie. Add a few slices of freshly baked apples with cinnamon on top and they won’t even know it was a store bought version.

Now go out and create your own unique comfort zone!