I’m not a big seasonal decorator. It’s probably because I can’t even get my regular life together, that I’m well aware that I don’t need more clutter filling up my house. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE a seasonally-themed house, and if someone would do it for me, I would 100% take them up on it. But, I also have to be honest with myself. Yet Fall really is my favorite season. At least, whatever we have left in New Jersey, which is a couple of days here and there. But I really do savor the brief period of time when the trees are transforming into colorful landscapes, and I can finally break out the box of sweatshirts. THAT is the best! So, while my Fall “must-haves” don’t include much in terms of decor (there are a few things I’ve gotten that I do love and that are autumn-inspired, while not needing to be “decorated.”) But mostly, over the years, Fall has been associated with Back To School, which means my neurodiverse kids are trying to make new friends. I’m always looking for ideas to make hangouts in our home a way for them to bond. So, I'm always excited to share items I’ve relied on, from when they were little, until now, that I’ve kept as some “reinforcements” when they were little and playdates weren’t going as smoothly as I’d hoped. Or, so teenagers in my house will be occupied enough to want to stay as long as possible. Even sending Mia back to college, I’m always packing stuff to host kids in her dorm for a movie night, or board games would draw people into their room to hang and play.
Fall means tailgating, finding comfy clothes and boots, and even starting to think about the holidays. It also actually means a little more “me” time, since everyone is back in school. Here’s some of my unique stuff that says “Autumn” to me, some in ways that may be unconventional, but I promise, there IS a method to my madness. My favorite part of sharing is providing items you may not have otherwise known or thought about. Considering I’m OBSESSED with researching (hence why I love my role as podcaster so much), hopefully I’ll provide some fun, useful, different shit that’s awesome to discover!
Love,
Your Favorite Shit-Sharer (not an influencer)
Fake It Til You Make It
Not gonna lie, I do miss having a little of that sunny glow once summer is gone. Since I am seriously as pale as they come, I like to sneak a little bronze into my routine, and trust me, because I REALLY hate how so many products smell, feel, and look way too discolored, I have tried tons in search the best, and I now have a bunch that have become part of my daily routine, and those that I use to prep for a night out!
Sunshine Drops By Drunk Elephant are awesome whether you use them under (or over) foundation, or just mix a few drops into your favorite moisturizer. They feel so hydrating, contain antioxidants, and are clean and vegan. Plus, a bottle will last you the whole season if you only use the necessary amount.
Another thing I miss in the fall is that a little bit of color hides my pretty intense dark circles and puffy under eyes. If you’ve never used TULA Skin Care Eye Balm Rose Glow - Dark Circle Treatment, then you are missing out on one of my favorite beauty products EVER! With caffeine, probiotics, and collagen, it really does quickly transform me into looking awake first thing in the morning. Plus, it’s so easy to apply that it’s awesome to use all day as a little “pick me up.”
One of my only hacks in life is having some smaller, but more upscale products around my house or outdoors that make it feel so much more luxurious and comfortable. While we definitely are not fancy people (nor is our home), some purchases really do elevate the vibe and provide an ambiance that feels more small but significant purchases really make everything feel more “together." On the other hand, there are some products that people pay a lot for that have dupes that are just as good, if not better.
The thing that I miss most about our old house is the fireplace. But, we invested in a Solo Stove which has made fall nights outside so cozy. Plus, it’s totally easy to travel with. Bring it camping, to the beach, on a picnic, or even to a tailgate. The best part? It really is smokeless, so you don’t have to worry about it getting in your eyes, and there are no strong lingering odors.
Brooklyn Candle Company (yes, the candles are actually made in Brooklyn) carries my favorite candle scents by far for all times of year. They have around 70 hours of burn time, and the multi-wicks make the house smell quickly and aren’t too overpowering, but definitely are impactful and inviting. For Fall, my two favorites are Brooklyn (smells like a luxury Soho hotel) and Catskills (if you’ve ever been hiking in the northeast, you can imagine the fresh crispness of the scent).
Muslin blankets have become my favorite. I buy them as throws, and as extra blankets to use when guests sleep over or it’s extra cold at night. The thing I love so much is that they become softer as they wear and get washed, and they are very affordable. I have a few of these Comfy Cubs and they are well made, come in great colors, and are incredibly soft. (currently $10 off)
I LOVE a pair of comfortable, stylish boots and pretty much live in them all fall and winter. My absolute favorite are my Kork-Ease Women's Deilia Leather Ankle Boot, which is a unique take on the classic Chelsea boot. They are SO well made, and I can wear them all day long and they never feel anything but made for me. They run true to size unless you're planning on wearing a thicker sock with them, otherwise, I would size up. (Regularly $220, currently $99).
Let me preface this by saying that I really never purchase random clothing brands, because I’ve had so little success with them. However, when my friend was wearing the Yeokou Women's Casual Full Zip Up Sherpa Lined Hoodie, I asked if I could try it on and I loved it! So, I bought it in gray and in blue. I’m so excited to be able to wear them again in the coming months. I love them casual with jeans, and also just hanging around the house on cold days. (currently $30 off)
If you have a teenage boy, you know how impossible it is to get them to wear a jacket. It’s all sweatshirts, all the time. So, instead of wasting money on a coat he’s never going to wear, I get home the warmest, most comfortable sweatshirts that will last. I got this one last year for my 16 year old because it’s water resistant, and I think Carhartt is one of the best, well made brands out there. He wore it so often, and loves it so much, that I already purchased a few for this year. The colors are so great, and they wash and wear so well. Plus, they really are so warm.
Kid/Teen Hangout Helpers
I sent Mia to school with this Projector with WiFi and Bluetooth, 2024. She told me it was the best purchase I've made for her (I mean, I did get her a car a few years back, so....). The first few weeks of school she brought the projector into the lounge and gathered people on her floor for movie nights. It's also great at the house, and it comes with a screen. I bought this one (which happens to be on sale now) and it was perfect. Just add some popcorn and candy and you have a whole bunch of entertained, happy people.
While it's still nice out, keeping kids outside is really such a win. This laser tag set is so great, especially for a multi-kid get together. It has everything included and only needs triple A batteries. Plus, I have to admit, it's really fun as an adult, too.
Imagine being the house that has the Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course and it not even being too expensive or difficult to set up? Plus, there's plenty of different activities to change and keep everyone from getting bored.
Check out Marriage and Martinis' Amazon Storefront for more awesome finds, including our intimacy favorites, Adam's favorites for guys, and Danielle's hot mess mom essentials to make life easier!
Don't forget to get on the list to be the first to find out more (and get a special discount code) for upcoming Holiday Couples' Challenge! Make this the best season yet filled with more teamwork, gentle but necessary conversations about logistics and family gatherings, and make more time to bond as a couple, and to make sure you each have some time to yourself to replenish and refresh.
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