Autumn Outdoor Living - Cozy Ideas for Entertaining & Relaxing
There’s something magical about autumn days — the crisp air, golden light, and perfect temperatures…making it the ideal time to refresh your outdoor spaces before winter sets in. This is Part 3 of my lifestyle series designed to inspire every area of your life, and today I’m stepping outside.
Think of your porch, patio, or backyard as an extension of your home…a place to entertain friends, plant cool-weather flowers, sip your favorite drink, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature.
Whether it’s tossing a football in the yard, gathering around a crackling fire, or roasting s’mores under the stars, fall is a time to slow down and savor these moments. With a few thoughtful updates, you can create an outdoor retreat that feels warm, welcoming, and ready for every memory you’ll make this season.
Make Outdoor Spaces an Extension of Your Home
Outdoor living isn’t just for summer…think of your patio, porch, or backyard as an extension of your indoor space.
Bring out plush pillows, outdoor rugs, and small side tables to create defined spaces for conversation or relaxation. Add string lights, lanterns, or battery-powered candles to create a warm glow that feels just as inviting as your living room.
A few thoughtful touches can instantly make your outdoor area feel like a continuation of your home.
There are so many examples of cheese and charcuterie boards on Crazy Blonde Life but this one is one of my favorites!!
Every year I decorate our outdoor space a little differently and these pictures are from two years ago! Since our renovation indoors, we’ve made a few changes outside and things will be different this year! I’m excited to share our outdoor space really soon!
Below I’m linking three things from Amazon that I think are great finds…
I’m so obsessed with this gorgeous salt cellar that I just purchased it! I have so many different kinds of salt and this salt cellar is a beautiful way to store it!
The same company also makes a butter keeper that’s so cute and would make an amazing holiday gift for anyone that loves to cook or just eat French bread with salted butter!
Also…I purchased the striped throw pillows two years ago and they are on my front porch in my rocking chairs! They’re made from Sunbrella fabric and still look brand new! I love the neutral color because I can use any kind of throw and everything matches!
Barn jackets are so on trend this season and perfect for fall! I love the length of this one and that it’s denim…perfect with any top or sweater!
Fall entertaining doesn’t have to be hard…make a Mezze Platter and let your guests dig in…no cooking required!
Outdoor Entertaining Made Easy
Fall is the perfect time to gather outside while the weather is cool but comfortable.
Set up an outdoor bar with cider or mulled wine, arrange a casual s’mores bar, or host a football-viewing party in the yard with portable speakers and cozy seating.
Keep it simple with easy snacks and seasonal serving pieces (who doesn’t love a pumpkin charcuterie board) - blankets, enamel mugs, or wooden boards for a rustic fall vibe. This approach makes outdoor entertaining low-stress but memorable and you get to enjoy the party along with your guests!
This recipe for Sausage & Kale Soup with Tortellini is one of my favorites and perfect for fall!
Incorporate Seasonal Décor and Nature-Inspired Touches
Little details go a long way in making outdoor spaces feel fresh. Hang a seasonal wreath on your door, scatter pinecones or dried florals along tables, and bring in textured pillows in autumn shades. Add string lights or lanterns to create a warm glow at dusk. Using natural materials — like wooden trays, woven baskets, or terra cotta planters — helps tie your décor to the season and creates a curated but relaxed look.
I love a picnic in the fall…take a picnic basket to a local park or even just your backyard! It’s so much fun to eat on a blanket and spend the rest of the day reading under a tree! Check out my fall reading list here!
Read more about this Thanksgiving tablescape here! I set this table on our front porch and it was one of my favorites!
Savor the Season — Create Memories Outdoors
Refreshing your outdoor spaces isn’t just about décor…it’s about making room for memories!
Commit to small rituals like early-morning coffee on the porch, sunset drinks with your partner, or weekend stargazing with the kids. Plan mini events like Sunday football games in the yard or evening marshmallow roasts around the fire pit.
By building these moments into your life now, you’ll carry the warmth of the season long after winter arrives.
Another favorite soup for fall is this Sausage and White Bean Soup…it’s hearty and delicious!
Refreshing your outdoor spaces isn’t just about decorating, it’s about intentionally creating places that support the life you want to live.
By making your porch, patio, or backyard a welcoming extension of your home, you’re inviting more time in nature, more connection with loved ones, and more meaningful everyday moments. As the air turns crisp and the evenings get shorter, these spaces can become your retreat for laughter, conversation, and a deeper appreciation of the season.
This third installment in my 5-part lifestyle series is all about helping you create that foundation. Follow along for more inspiration for every area of your life…from your wardrobe to your organization, home refresh, outdoors, and beyond…step into each day feeling refreshed, intentional, and ready to show up for yourself.
I hope you’re enjoying this series…PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE, let me know in the comments! I’m open to all your comments…constructive criticism, suggestions, praise…I welcome it all!
Thanks for reading today!
~XOXO Suzanne