October, a time for gathering, being thankful and in my mind – the official start of fall. Fall can often make us feel like we have to head indoors and hunker down to get ready for winter. While I’m all for enjoying the coziness of the indoors this time of year, I also love to take in all of the changes of the season outside as well. As a former Edmontonian, I will stubbornly sit outside in any temperature that does not have a minus sign in front of it. Over my last few years living in the Cowichan Valley I have come up with a few tricks to extend the enjoyability of my time outside well into the cooler months.
Fall brings with it shorter and darker days. I say we put on our Hygge hats and embrace it! Hygge (pronounced hyoo-guh) is the Danish way of thinking that welcomes this darker, cooler time of year by creating cozy environments to enjoy with great company.
Once the cooler weather and rain allows for the fire ban to be lifted, fall is one of my favourite seasons to host bonfires. A beautiful fire bowl is a great way to bring warmth and ambiance of Hygge to any gathering. Add in some great fall coloured foliage such as a Barberry shrub, Dogwood, or an ornamental grass and you get the perfect setting for some peaceful fireside chats. Fall on the West Coast is almost synonymous with extra layers.
I love adding layers of warm blankets and pillows to my outdoor entertaining areas to bring the feelings of coziness outside. Another great Hygge addition to your outdoor spaces (or indoor for that matter) this time of year, are candles and lanterns. Candles add instant warmth to any atmosphere, and they are a great way to combat the early dark skies. By utilizing any of these tips you can fully enjoy your outdoor patios and have a truly Hygge filled season.
You can find the perfect fire pots, plants, blankets, lighting and decor to bring your Hygge dreams to life at the Old Farm Garden Center. We are happy to help you create the cozy and warm spaces you need to entertain outdoors this time of year!
By Allysa Simmons