As we drive the winding roads of the Northwoods, we can’t help but notice the hints of color that are peeking through the trees…indicating that fall is just around the corner and our warm summer days out on the lake are numbered (say it isn’t so!!!).
Yes, the boat has to be winterized and the outdoor decor stored for the season, but we still have wonderful things to look forward to inside our lake homes as the weather turns colder and the days get shorter.
Being indoors doesn’t have to be a dreary thought. Preparing for cozy days around the kitchen table with your loved ones should be exciting. In fact, with a little creativity, the best memories are yet to be made. Here are 5 surefire (and simple) ways to liven up the chilly autumn days to come…
1. Add some frivolity to your table
We know it can be difficult to say goodbye to dinners under the stars out on your beautiful patio, but just think of all the gorgeous dishware you haven’t used in a while. After all, don’t we all tend to default to our adorable melamine sets while living life outdoors?
That china and stunning glassware that has been sitting in the hutch is begging for some use! Why not jazz up a weeknight meal by pulling out all the stops. A full silverware layette, cups and saucers, assorted fabrics and finishes, glassware fit for royalty…a little frivolity never hurt anyone. In fact, it can make your indoor dinner oh-so-much fun!
2. Spice it up with a variety of salt and pepper shakers
A gorgeous nod to autumn in Wisconsin, these acorn salt and pepper shaker sets are just a few of the must-have options available in our showroom.
And if woodland decor isn’t your thing, maybe you’ll fall in love with this little lake-life-inspired rowboat…the perfect vessel for any spices. And those miniature oars…perfect for serving up just a pinch of flavor.
These seemingly simple accessories can go a long way in livening up any table setting. Trust us, the little details never go unnoticed!
3. Host an impromptu game night
What’s better than family time and lots of laughter? Well, we’d argue it doesn’t get much better than that. You don’t need a well-planned day trip on the pontoon to bring your loved ones together. Simply grab some casual dishware, pop some popcorn, pour everyone’s favorite drinks, and rally the troops around your kitchen table.
An impromptu game night (especially when the fire is roaring inside and the fall leaves are on full display out your windows) will add excitement to any run-of-the-mill evening or weekend at home.
4. Mix up the table
Who says that you have to match place settings? Nobody! Liven up your table by getting a little crazy with the decor.
Mix patterns with other patterns. Solids with other solids. Bring in a variety of chairs, glassware, silverware, dishes, placemats, and more. It might sound like a mess, but it will create a table full of visual interest that brings smiles to everyone you’re dining with. An easy way to brighten up a cool, dark fall night.
Maybe even try to create a place setting to match each family member’s personality. A fun challenge? We think so!
5. Host a formal family dinner
You are cordially invited to dinner with your family. Sounds pretty fancy, right?
If planning ahead is more your thing, forego the impromptu meals and get busy creating an elegant dinner for your loved ones.
Use your best dishware, find an interesting centerpiece, light some candles, and start making that 5-course meal. You don’t have to wait for Thanksgiving or Christmas to gather around a beautiful table with all of your favorite people. Any night can be a holiday with a little bit of planning and imagination.
If you’re ready to liven up your table in preparation for fall, stop by our showroom! We’d be thrilled to meet you and help you select something extra special that makes your indoor living just as memorable as your days in the great outdoors.
Until next month,
The Lakeside Living Team