The most anticipated season quickly approaches this month. As the vibrant colors of autumn sweep across the landscape, there's no denying that fall brings with it a unique sense of beauty and warmth. It’s a season for cozy sweaters, cool breezes, and of course, a host of traditions that make this time of year so special. From the aromas of spiced treats to the anticipation of outdoor festivities, fall invites us to embrace simple pleasures and prepare for the cooler months ahead.
If you know our Director of First Impressions, Angela, then you know just how much she loves fall! Thankfully, she is willing to share the love with the rest of us. Featured below are some of Angela's fall essentials that bring coziness and joy to the new season. Consider this your own personally curated fall collection that helps ensure you get the most out of this sweater weather. Enjoy!
Creating a Cozy Home
One of the keys to enjoying the cooler temperatures is keeping your home warm and cozy! My family enjoys snuggling up with a warm blanket surrounded by our outdoor firepit or the comforting aroma of a new fall candle. Here are some of my must-haves for making your house a home this season!
Angela's favorite fall home essentials:
- Candles: Woodwick Ginger & Turmeric from Target, Frosted Pumpkin Soy Blend Candle from Ulta, Pumpkin Clove candle from Anthropologie & any fall scented candle from Bath & Body Works.
- Blanket: Any oversized super plush or modern lux throw. Target or Costco is where I find my favorite ones.
- Decor: Fall decor such as wreaths, white pumpkins and garland from Hobby Lobby.
Comfort Foods and Seasonal Flavors
Nothing quite defines fall like the comfort of seasonal flavors. Whether it’s a freshly baked apple pie, a hot cup of pumpkin spice latte, or a hearty bowl of butternut squash soup, Fall’s flavors bring warmth to both heart and home. Farmers' markets showcase a bounty of root vegetables, apples, and pumpkins, inspiring creativity in the kitchen. From slow-cooked stews to cinnamon-dusted desserts, autumn is the perfect time to enjoy nature’s harvest.
Angela's favorite Pumpkin Spice Bread
Recipe: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- 1 can of pumpkin puree (Libby's)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 3/4 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice
Directions: In a large bowl, whisk the pumpkin, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and sugars until thoroughly combined. In another bowl whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt & pumpkin spice, combining well. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stir until all blended. Grease loaf pan and pour batter into loaf pan. Bake for 60-65 minutes on 350 degrees or until a toothpick inserted at center of loaf comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool completely before slicing. Enjoy!
Outdoor Adventures and Cozy Gatherings
Fall is a magical season for outdoor activities. It’s the perfect time for scenic hikes, pumpkin patch visits, and apple picking adventures. As the days grow shorter, cozy gatherings around a bonfire or a backyard fire pit offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with family and friends. Whether it's roasting marshmallows, telling stories under the stars, or just enjoying the crisp autumn air, these moments create lasting memories as the year winds down.
Angela's Top 3 local pumpkin patches, apple picking and greenhouses.
- Center Grove Orchard- Sunflower meadow, apple orchard, pumpkin patch & animals. Location: 32835 610th Ave, Cambridge, IA 50046
- Howell's Greenhouse and Pumpkin Patch- Family activities, pumpkin patch, sunflower patch, corn maze & corn pool. Location: 3145 Howell Ct, Cumming, IA 50061
- Rose Farm- Location: Flower fields, pumpkin greenhouse, flower & gift shop. 7197 43rd Ave, Norwalk, IA 50211
This fall, take time to savor the season—through its rich flavors, outdoor beauty, and moments of connection. As the leaves turn and the temperatures cool, it’s the perfect time to reflect, enjoy, and prepare for the season ahead. Happy fall, y'all!