The Cozy Chaos of October
Martha Stewart, a Cookie Swap with Strangers, and... Chocolate Sardines?
Okay, real talk—
Martha Stewart is about to take over Netflix on the 30th, and yes, I've already signed up for the Food52 holiday cookie exchange because, I’ve been told, I have a habit of overcommitting. Pfft.
There's this pressure to have everything perfectly planned by now.
But here's the thing:
The magic isn't in perfection. It's in the layers, the quirks, the story your home tells when it's lived in—kind of like that well-worn leather chair that just gets better with age.
Do I wish I was a leather chair?
Anyway, with everything going on in the world, I want you to promise me one thing:
Give yourself some grace this week.
Breathe a little deeper, and remember, it’s not that serious. There’s always tomorrow.
I'm sharing my best-kept secrets, things that bring joy back into the season without making us lose our minds.
We’re doing this together, and if I can make it work, you can too.
We’ve got this, I promise.
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Secrets I wish I had known when I started out.
This isn’t just about styling a space.
You’ll be creating a holiday home that tells your story with layers of personality and charm. Without the Stress.
This is the guide I wish I had when I was starting out.
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Prepping for the Holiday Sprint (Without Losing Your Mind)
Early Thanksgiving Pantry Staples:
Start by stocking up on items that will save you from last-minute panic.
A go-to list:
chicken broth.
canned pumpkin.
pie crusts.
and cranberry sauce.
These basics always run out at the store when you need them most.
And trust me, your future self will thank you.
Or, you know, you could just skip the stress and order one of these premade Thanksgiving dinners—1 | 2 | 3 | 4
Pre-Order Your Thanksgiving Florals:
Forget grabbing a last-minute bouquet.
Pre-order an arrangement that mixes wildflowers, dark roses, and seasonal fruits (think pomegranates or figs) from a place like Terrain.
And here's the edge.
Place them in vintage trophy cups or a well-loved copper pot. That's where the magic happens—the blend of history and nature.
The Dish You Perfect Now and Make Your Signature:
Instead of stressing over a 5-course meal, master one dish that feels both comforting and elevated.
How about a roasted butternut squash with caramelized onions, goat cheese, and spice?
It's rustic but sophisticated, and most importantly—it can be prepped ahead, so you're not frantically cooking while your guests arrive.
This is the kind of dish that becomes "your thing."
Last-Minute Halloween Hacks:
(Perfect for those still scrambling) Hi, its me.
The Costume You Already Own (But Didn't Know):
Forget spending on costumes that feel forced.
The real move?
Rummage through your closet. That oversized wool coat you've had forever?
Pair it with leather gloves, slicked-back hair, and a vintage scarf—you're instantly giving off "mysterious art dealer" vibes.
It's chic, timeless, and totally unexpected.
Treats That Don't Try Too Hard:
Try chocolate-covered pretzel rods dipped in crushed hazelnuts or pistachios.
Arrange them in vintage drinking glasses (think etched or smoked glass) and place them on a leather-bound tray.
It's refined but with just enough roughness to feel cool. Dream leather tray.
Halloween Decor for Those Who Don't Do Themes:
The secret to making your space feel seasonal without going full-on kitsch?
Swap out your usual artwork for black-and-white vintage photos.
Scatter them along your mantel or shelves, paired with dried branches in ceramic vases.
Add a few tarnished silver candlesticks, and you've created an atmosphere with just the right amount of eerie elegance.
The Overlooked:
The Decor Transition That Feels Effortless
Vintage Fabrics for an Unexpected Twist:
Instead of decking your sofa in the usual holiday colors, toss on a wool plaid blanket in deep earthy tones.
Think olive, charcoal, and cream.
Mix in a velvet pillow or two.
These fabrics add richness and texture without feeling overly festive.
It's that low-key layering that makes a room feel lived-in and curated, not staged.
The Scent Hack That Isn't Overpowering:
Sure, everyone's doing cinnamon and pine, but here's something more interesting.
Simmer a pot with star anise, dried rosemary, and a couple of black tea bags.
The scent is warm, herbal, and smoky—it lingers in the air without being too obvious.
It's like a hidden signature for your home that people won't immediately place, but they'll ask about.
ICYMI:
Jewelry Boxes – Because little treasures deserve a home that’s just as charming. Perfect for gifting or adding a touch of “I’ve got my life together” elegance to your dresser
Vintage Alabaster Candlesticks – These add a soft, worn-in elegance to any table setting. Whether for a cozy dinner or a larger gathering, these pieces create atmosphere without saying a word.
Tiny Heart Watches- It’s the kind of accessory that feels like a little love note to yourself.
Zara Plaid Pants – The perfect mix of cozy and chic, these pants are your “I just threw this on” moment that still looks put-together.
Chocolate Sardines – Because nothing says “I have a sense of humor and good taste” like a tin of chocolate sardines… Right?
Free People Advent Calendar- It’s a little bit whimsical, a little bit cozy, and all about embracing the magic of the season, one day at a time.
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Until next time,
Love ya, mean it, bye!
Peyton.