decorate for fall on a budget }{ foraged decor

Happy Monday! I had a pretty big weekend with the last Vanessa Noel Events wedding of 2013. It was a pretty special one for several reasons. I grew up with the groom and his family in our tight-knit community... so tight-knit, in fact, my parents and in-laws were guests and my niece was the flower girl! The wedding was at Calamigos Ranch (hello gorgeous!) and the evening could not have been more beautiful or celebrated a better couple! More details on that fall beauty to come. 

I love love love fall. I love fall weddings, decor, food... everything about the season. Yes, I realize that today marks one month before Christmas and at this point, most people have (sadly) moved on to more "winter wonderland" themed discussion. But seeing as how locally, the highs for the day have just recently dipped below the high 70's, I'm finally feeling fully fall-y. (I love a good alliteration) 

One thing that I really love about decorating for fall is the accessibility of pretty decorations. Obviously, Michael's, Hobby Lobby, and every other craft store has leave garlands, plastic pumpkins, and turkey figurines galore, but really, there is no better place to look for festive decorations than your grocery store or, better yet, outside your front door.

Last week, my husband and I went on a walk specifically to gather pretty elements of fall to bring inside. I took an umbrella as the forecast said rain, but used it more as a carrying case for my treasures. 

I sprinkled the leaves that I gathered throughout our apartment to add warm color here and there. I put the berries in apothecary jars along with some pears and persimmons from our fruit bowl for an easy and pretty accent in our dining room. 

(Please excuse the mediocre cell phone photos)

As you prepare to host family and/or friends for Thanksgiving, don't be too quick to run to the store for decor. Take a quick walk in your neighborhood and don't underestimate the possibilities that abound at the grocery store.