The Secret Holiday: of September 1st

The first day of each of the ‘ber’ months feels like a holiday all its own. On September 1st, pastel summer decor gives way to autumnal shades of sage, umber, and burgundy. By October 1st, thanksgiving decor adorns our tablescapes, and for Hallowe'en enthusiasts faux cobwebs and ghosts may already be bringing a touch of spooky charm. Then, on November 1st, the shift toward holiday decor begins with evergreen branches, thick fair isle blankets, and perhaps a reindeer figurine or two.

🍂Setting the scene

This year, September 1st conveniently falls on Labour Day here in Canada. If you have the day off, it’s the perfect chance to refresh your space for fall coziness. To set the scene, I’ll be brewing a warm mug of spiced apple cider and playing the latest cozy Calmed by Nature video in the background for a little extra autumn ambience.

🍎Spiced hot apple cider

Ingredients:

• 3 cups apple cider
• ⅛ cup maple syrup
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• ½ an orange peeled, the peel cut into strips
• ½ a lemon peeled, the peel cut into strips

Steps:

• Pour the apple cider into a saucepan over medium heat.
• Stir in the maple syrup.
• Fold the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and peels into a piece of cheesecloth and tie the cheesecloth together with a length of kitchen string.
• Add the spice bundle to the saucepan of cider.
• Heat until cider is hot (but not boiling).
• Ladle the hot cider into a mug, add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar and enjoy!

🕯️Decorating

All of my summer-themed blankets and pillow covers will make their way through the wash before being folded and tucked away until spring returns. In their place, I’ll layer in soft plaids, knit throws, and a few harvest-inspired accents. It’s also the perfect time of year to switch off bright overhead lights in favour of flickering candle light that casts a softer, cozier glow.✨

🌲Homemade pine cone potpourri

I can’t get enough of fall fragrances, so I infused our Simmer Pot Spice blend into a simple pine cone potpourri. Here’s how you can make your own cozy, autumn-scented decor:

1. Gather your pine cones — Forage outdoors or pick some up at your local thrift or craft store.
2. Prep the cones — Spread them on a lined baking sheet and bake at 120°C (250°F) for 10–15 minutes to clean and dry them.
3. Infuse with fragrance — Once cooled slightly, place the pine cones in a mixing bowl and add a few drops of essential oils (cinnamon, clove, orange, or your favourite blend) until you reach your desired strength.
4. Set the scent — Return the pine cones to the lined baking sheet and bake again at 120°C (250°F) for 5 minutes.
5. Cool & display — Let them cool completely, then arrange in a decorative dish or basket for a warm, fragrant touch of autumn.