Top Tips for Autumn Decoration and Thanksgiving at Home

As the air turns crisp and the trees shed their vibrant hues, autumn breathes new life into our homes and hearts. This season holds a special place in my heart—its magnificent bounty of flowers, foliages, fruits, and berries inspires much of the work we do at Neill Strain Floral Couture. I’m particularly drawn to the richness of autumn, with its deep tones and layered textures, which can transform any space into a warm, cosy haven.

Having experienced the breathtaking beauty of Vermont, New England in the fall a couple of years ago, I found endless inspiration in the golden forests, burnt-orange leaves, and vibrant reds that stretched as far as the eye could see. It was a bucket-list trip, one that not only left a lasting impression on me but also deeply influenced our autumn styling and collections. There’s something about the serenity of nature during this season that invites reflection, comfort, and creativity—qualities I hope to evoke in your home with my designs.

If you visit our boutiques in Belgravia, Mayfair, or Harrods, you’ll be greeted with an abundance of seasonal flowers, berries, foliages, and plants. These are perfectly complemented by an array of elegant glassware and ceramics, hand selected by me, offering you everything you need to style your home for the season. As we step into autumn, here are some of my top tips for decorating your home and creating a cosy, inviting atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of the season.

1. Embrace Rich Hues and Natural Textures

The colours of autumn are unmatched. Rich shades of crimson, burnt orange, and golden yellow paired with deep greens and plums can instantly warm up any space. Don’t shy away from mixing these tones with textures—combine velvety leaves, glossy berries, and the soft, rough textures of dried grasses or seed pods. By layering different materials, you create depth and interest, essential elements in evoking a feeling of warmth and cosiness.

2. Create a Bountiful Centerpiece

A well-crafted centerpiece on your dining table or mantel can be the heart of your autumn decor. Using pumpkins, gourds, and fruits such as pomegranates or apples adds an organic touch. Pair these with beautiful autumnal flowers—think Chrysanthemums, Dahlias, and Asters. Adding foliages such as Eucalyptus or Oak leaves enhances the texture and gives your display a natural, earthy feel. In our boutiques, you’ll find exquisite arrangements, as well as decorative elements that can bring your vision to life.

3. Play with Lighting and Candlelight

Nothing says autumn like the warm, inviting glow of candlelight. Incorporating candles into your decor brings a sense of intimacy, perfect for chilly evenings spent indoors. At Neill Strain Floral Couture, we offer a range of signature fragranced candles that add another sensory dimension to your home. My personal favourites for autumn are Verdure, Cassis Noir, and Santal d'Orient —when burned together, they create the ultimate cosy fall vibe. Place candles on your mantelpiece, dining table, or side tables to create a soft, flickering glow that enhances the warmth of the season.

4. Bring the Outdoors In

Autumn is all about celebrating nature’s bounty. Incorporate seasonal fruits, berries, and branches into your home decor for a rustic, natural touch. Branches of autumn leaves, berries, or even acorns placed in vases or scattered across your dining table add a layer of authenticity and bring the outdoors in. I often use birch or oak branches in my installations, which provide beautiful height and movement to any space.

5. Layer Your Home with Cosy Accents

Autumn decor isn’t just about what you see—it’s also about how your home feels. Add plush throws, cushions, and rugs in autumnal colours to your living spaces to invite a sense of warmth and comfort. Texture is key here—velvets, knits, and woollen fabrics in shades of burnt orange, mustard, and deep red can instantly transform your home into a cosy retreat.

6. Dressing Your Home for Thanksgiving

As we transition from autumn into Thanksgiving, your decor can easily evolve. Pumpkins can stay, but consider adding more elegant touches, such as gold accents, to bring a festive feel to the season. A beautifully set dining table with autumnal foliage, tall candles, and perhaps a touch of luxury glassware or ceramics from our boutique will create the perfect atmosphere for family gatherings.

7. Let Us Do It for You

If your schedule doesn’t allow time for you to dress your home for autumn or Thanksgiving, our team of talented designers and stylists is always on hand to help. Whether you’re looking for a full home transformation or just a few key touches, we can bring your vision to life. Simply enquire here, and our team will be in touch to create an autumn wonderland that reflects your style.

Autumn is a time for reflection, warmth, and celebration, and I invite you to immerse yourself in this beautiful season with us. From bespoke floral arrangements to home styling, Neill Strain Floral Couture brings the magic of autumn right to your doorstep. Visit one of our boutiques, or let us help you transform your home into a cosy haven where the beauty of the season is celebrated in every detail.