In the summer you’re likely to be spending most of your time on the back deck enjoying the water. However, the fall ushers in a season of indoor entertaining and provides you the perfect opportunity to focus on your front porch. Here are 5 ideas for making a great first impression that go beyond the typical mums and pumpkins:

1. Say it with a Sign

Image from Serendipity Refined

Rustic wood signs are definitely all the rage, and fall is the perfect time to add a more natural look to your front porch. Choose a simple word, fun phrase, or prominently display your family name. There are several local shops that sell signs, or you can make your own with reclaimed wood or old pallets.

2. Go for Gold

Image from Country Living

If you’re not crazy about the rustic look, you can do a glamorous take on fall trends with metallic accents. Look for golds, bronze or silver decorations or spray paint gourds with a shiny gold finish. Silver and gold leaves also look gorgeous and will pop if you pair them with black.

3. Play with Plaid

Image from Stone Gable

It is easy to transition breezy hammocks and front porch swings to fall. You can simply swap out your pillows and throws with flannels and plaids. A comfortable summer spot can be effortlessly transformed into a cozy autumn corner perfect for sipping coffee and snuggling up with a good book.

4. Paint Your Pumpkins

Image from The Radio Butlers

You can add a whole new level of sophistication to your porch with painted pumpkins. Display monograms, or house number, or a fancy design. Plus, the clean-up is a lot easier than with carving. If you’d like, you can even purchase faux pumpkins to paint–giving you beautiful decorations you can use each year.

5. Columns of Corn Stalks

Photo from Home Stories A to Z

Another quick way to add a touch of autumn to your front porch, is by using dried corn stalks. When paired with a subdued color scheme, they add just enough texture and fall feeling. Tie stalks to existing columns to accentuate your home’s architecture and ensure they don’t fall over.