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HILLMA N HOMES | F E A T U R E Haystacks, auburn leaves, golden bows, straw scarecrows, Indian corn and, of course…pumpkins are the signs that autumn is here. Think outside the box this season when displaying the hallmark signs of fall. Lead visitors to your door in seasonal style. Line your front walkway with pumpkins of various colors and sizes. Stencil your house number on an oversized or unusually shaped pumpkin and set it next to the driveway or on the porch to welcome guests in a whimsical way. For an interesting display on the front steps or even the dining room table, a lovely arrangement of white pumpkins filled with hydrangeas makes a real impact. Simply hollow out the gourd as you would for a jack-o-lantern, then fill the round, squatty "vase" with flowers. If you don't have fall blooms to jazz up the bouquet, collect branches with leaves or other foliage from the yard—the use of the pumpkins as containers adds charm to whatever you choose to place inside them. Of course, the front door is a logical focal point when it comes to creating autumnal curb appeal. There is an overwhelming abundance of choices in style, material, texture and color when it comes to wreaths. There are so many creative ways to dress up a simple wrapped cord of grapevine. Corn husks, acorns, wheat clusters, burlap embellishments—the options are endless. Cozy fire pits, which have become such a fixture poolside and on Florida patios, are the perfect places to play up the decorating possibilities. Add comfy blankets or a light flannel throw to the seating area that will instantly transform it into a warm, inviting gathering space reminiscent of a woodsy campfire. Sometimes, just adding a simple item to the porch can make a bold statement—a wooden rocking chair, a rustic basket piled high with gourds and pinecones, or even a small bundle of firewood helps set the tone. Decorative pillows are another easy way 8 | Fannie Hillman + Associates

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