The clocks have changed, the days in the Valley are cooler, and we’re all looking for ways to make our homes cozy and warm as we approach the real winter. There…we said it…there’s still a whole other season of cool weather to look forward to!

Since it’s dark out by 5pm, we know you have time to tinker around your living room at home. Here’s some simple tips to cozy up your home this fall. To help you out, we’ve linked some of our favourite unique retail spots to source these items, focusing on downtown Abbotsford, just steps from our masterplanned community, The Rail District.

1. We Love Layers
   Just like you, your home needs layers this fall.  Introducing fabrics such as velvet or wool in warmer colours like rust, green or cream instantly changes up your home for fall.  This could mean swapping out some cushion covers and blankets or adding throws to your furniture.  Placing rugs on cold floors will improve your mornings, as will the splash of new colour in your bedroom.  Our friends over at Spruce Collective have many options for pillows and throws in all the tones of the fall season.
2. Create a Book Reading Nook
   It’s dark when you get home from work…instead of plopping on the couch to do the usual Netflix and chill, try investing some time in your reading.  Of course, you’ll need the perfect book reading nook.  Once you’ve selected the perfect spot with a window to let your mind wander, you’ll need to stock it with soft, plush blankets, and books.  If you end up becoming an avid reader, Hemingway’s Books & Records in downtown Abbotsford should be able to hook you up and resell the books you’ve completed.
3. Lamp It Up
   Swapping out your lighting for the fall season will make all the difference in the ambiance of your home.  No one needs the overly bright light that’s put out by those nasty ceiling mounted fixtures, when the soft lighting of smaller lamps help make spaces feel warmer!  Our Rail District neighbours Hunt and Home have some amazing lighting options to bring the fall aura into your home.
4. Update Your Patio
   Summer may be over, but you can still enjoy your outdoor space.  You’re still going to need the layers we talked about earlier, like throws, pillows and some seating.  Large storage baskets can hide your blankets when they’re not in use.  Adding a firepit and fairy lighting will go a long way to extend your patio season beyond the end of summer.  An excellent purveyor of the patio vibe, and featuring products that are either imported, made locally or made in the store itself, is Re:vive Boutique Bistro – worth the visit for some patio inspiration!
5. Unwind Your Mind
   Adding some beeswax candles and evergreen clippings is a great way to add some fall décor and warmth to your home before things get cluttered by the holiday season.  Choosing natural scents like those from beeswax candles, essential oils and fresh flowers and greens will create a purifying, rejuvenating atmosphere in your home.  The savvy team at Montrose + George have an array of candles, aromas, and diffusers to relax your mind.