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Entry door via Wayfair / Atwater Outdoor Wall Sconce via Casa Di Luce / House Number via Schoolhouse / Schlage Encode Smart Wifi Deadbolt via Schlage Canada / Kantha Stitch Throw via Wills & Prior / Padma Pillow in Nutmeg via Tonic Living / Paramount Lantern via Indigo / Simple metal side table via Wills & Prior / Portico Club Chair via Hauser / Camelot Entry Door Handle and Georgian Knob via Schlage Canada / Hostkvall Door Mat via Ikea Canada / Terracotta pot via Lowes / Birch & Eucalyptus Wreath via Wills & Prior /

September is all about transitions - whether it's back to school, work or whatever your post-summer routine consists of. It's that time of year where you might need a light sweater but you're still sporting sandals. Yes, it's still officially summer for another week or so, but with September's subtle shift, autumn is in the air. 

It's a good time to freshen up your front door and porch. But can we leave the pumpkins until October? What's the rush?

A warm, earthy palette that includes natural materials like terracotta, jute, and cosy textiles and touches of black and white, brass and autumn plants has inspired this look. Once again I've partnered with Schlage Canada to share a moodboard including some some tips and ideas on how to freshen up your front door and porch for fall. 

Refresh your planters

By now, your summer planters might be a little tired after the heat of August.  This more moderate weather makes it a great time to replace summer plantings with something that will be happy in cooler temperatures.  A palette that includes rich tones such as purple, burgundy, deep pink and gold will carry you through the fall.  I love the soft purple plumes of purple fountain grass. Instead of a pot of mums, try adding Japanese Anemone, ornamental kale, yarrow, or flowering heather to the porch. Other flowering perennials that add fall colour and have an interesting structure that will add winter interest are globe thistle, sedum autumn joy, grasses, and echinacea purpurea.

...and plan for spring colour

This is the time of year to start planning and buying spring flowering bulbs so you're ready to get planting in October.  Tulips, daffodils, alliums, crocus are often planted a little later in the fall when the soil has cooled. Always check the planting directions so you know when and how to plant and try to plant them in irregular groupings rather than rows so they look more natural. If you do have a problem with squirrels eating your precious tulip bulbs, try planting daffodils near the tulips. 

Update your exterior door hardware and locks

September's mild temperatures make it a great time to take on an outdoor paint project such as painting the front door. But if you don't have time for a paint project, it's easy to give your door a refresh with new door hardware. Schlage Canada offers custom sets - you can pick the style and colour or head to your local Home Depot or Lowes to find the latest styles available. While you're at it, make everyday life easier with a keyless, smart deadbolt lock that you can control and monitor from anywhere. The Schlage Encode is easy to install and get connected - its built-in WiFi connects to your home network, and lets you lock and unlock your door from anywhere using an app on your phone - no more fumbling for the keys! It even lets you send virtual keys to trusted friends and family.

Make it cosy with soft textiles and a place to sit

A comfy chair adds a welcoming touch to your front door and can be a nice spot to sit and enjoy a glass of wine, read a book or chat with the neighbours. Keep a basket with cosy blankets nearby so you can easily grab one on your way out.  Don't forget a soft pillow for added comfort and a pop of colour and personality.  A small table provides a spot to hold your drink.

Refresh with new decorative pieces 

Updating your exterior doesn't have to be a big ticket purchase. A new exterior light fixture, house number, the glow of a lantern, a new door mat or a pretty botanical wreath hung on your door can add a little curb appeal.

Try making your own wreath using flowers and plants like grasses and eucalyptus from the garden. Gather the botanicals and let them dry out before creating a wreath. I leave some flowers such as hydrangeas to dry upright in a vase, while others such as lavender, herbs and thin stemmed flowers are hung upside down in a cool, dry, dark space.

Disclosure: I've partnered with Schlage Canada in this sponsored post. All opinions and text are my own.