1) Indulge in Fall Flavors 

As soon as fall comes around restaurants and coffee shops alike begin serving seasonal foods and beverages. Pumpkin spice lattes have become as synonymous with fall as the leaves changing colors. But that’s because it’s just that good! People love the taste of pumpkin spice, but what many crave is the aroma of a warm fall drink. This is why apple cider is another popular choice among fall drink enthusiasts. Apple cider is a classic fall drink that can be served hot or cold depending on your personal preference. Not to be confused with the bitter tasting health drink, apple cider vinegar, apple cider has a sweet and crisp taste perfect for autumn days.  

2) Enjoy Nature 

While the summer months bring their share of amazing weather. The early fall months are one of the most beautiful times to get outdoors. Even though it might be too chilly for shorts and a t-shirt, there’s nothing wrong with putting on your favorite pair of sweats and enjoying the crisp fall air. Also be sure to take in the breathtaking views of changing seasons such as the leaves falling and changing colors. A brisk walk outside can also pair wonderfully with your favorite warm fall drink in hand!  

3) Fall Decorations 

Christmas decorations are something that have been present inside and outside of homes for years, but fall decorations can be just as fun to set up and just as eye-catching as well. From autumn wreaths, pumpkins, leaves, and spooky Halloween decorations, the possibilities are endless. Entryway decorations are also becoming extremely popular and trendy as they are the first thing people see when entering your home and serve to give your space tons of personality.  

4) Fall Recipes  

Every season can be associated with a common set of flavors. However, no season has set itself apart in that area quite like fall. Apples, pumpkin, squash, corn, cinnamon, maple, sage; these foods and flavors paired together or separately represent what fall is all about. A popular method of cooking fall recipes is in a crockpot or slow cooker. Simply combine your ingredients and leave it to cook while you go about your day. You can make delicious stews, soups, chilis and more with ease. If cooking isn’t your thing, fall farmers markets are a great place to go to for the freshest foods in your area.  

5) Apple Picking  

Apple picking is a great fall activity for families, couples, and friends. Whether you’re in it just for fun or your goal is to pick apples to eat and cook with, you can definitely find what you're looking for at your local apple orchard. Unfortunately, most orchards aren’t free, but you can surely get more than your dollars' worth for the price of admission. Apple picking season begins around July and extends into early November so don’t worry; you still have plenty of time left to try it for yourself.  

6) Carve Pumpkins 

Carving pumpkins used to be something reserved for Halloween or entertaining children, but the fall practice has become trendier and more suitable for all age groups. Scary faces on pumpkins are becoming outdated as pumpkin carvings have become much more fun and sophisticated. You could carve your favorite team's logo, a special design, or practically anything you want. Don’t forget to make the most of every part of the pumpkin as the seeds can be roasted and eaten and the pulp can be used in a variety of recipes.  

7) Dress to Impress 

Fall is a great excuse to break out those comfy sweats, and there’s nothing with that! However, fall is also a great season for many other different kinds of fashion and attire. Flannel is a great option for fall as it can be dressed up or down depending on your mood and preference. If you haven’t already, fall is also a great time to invest in a solid pair of boots. Be sure to pick a pair that are warm enough for the colder weather, but not too warm so that they will feel uncomfortable. 

The post How to Make the Most of Fall appeared first on Fairfax Square Blog.

As the temperatures start to dip and the leaves begin to change colors to fiery reds and vibrant yellow and oranges, we begin to snuggle into welcoming and cozy spaces. But before you start swiping your card and loading up on expensive fall décor, check out these DIY fall decorations to help you celebrate the season without breaking the bank – in the snuggliest, comfiest way possible.

1. Make a wreath.

If you’re feeling crafty, whip out the glue gun and some plastic leaves and pumpkins to create a beautiful fall wreath. If arts and crafts aren’t up your alley, scour some local stores to see if you can find a wreath within your budget.

2. Get local pumpkins.

Make a day of visiting a local pumpkin patch. It’s a fun family day and also helps the local economy!  

3. Collect from nature.

Gathering pinecones is a family-friendly activity that can double as an easy, free way to stock up on fall decorations for your home. If pinecones aren’t an option, you can also collect leaves, tree limbs or acorns.

4. Buy faux decorations.

Local hobby stores—and most thrift stores—often carry faux leaf garlands, plastic pumpkins and ceramic gourds.

5. Display blankets.

Fall brings cooler weather, which means it’s time to break out the blankets. Having them displayed in main living areas can make your home instantly feel more festive.

6. Buy cinnamon brooms.

If you want to make your house smell more like autumn without purchasing expensive fancy scented candles, decorate the prominent areas of your home with cinnamon brooms. Your local Trader Joes often has a ton!

7. Decorate with baskets.

Nothing says fall like a basket full of crisp red apples or small gourds from your local grocery store. It makes your space look warm and inviting—and should only cost you a few dollars!

The post How to make your apartment extra cozy for the new season appeared first on Fairfax Square Blog.

This summer enjoy the spirit and joy of vacation but at home with #VanMetreStaycation and take advantage of the amenities your community has to offer as well as neighborhood events and businesses to ramp up your summer fun!

Is there a newly opened museum or attraction you’ve wanted to visit? Is there a district you’ve never explored? Rediscover the best parts of your hometown and explore the unknown: this may lead to unique experiences and encounters.

2. Go on a Local Hike

You don’t have to live up in the hills or the mountains to go for a hike: a park can do it, and basically, every place where nature is everything can do it.

3. Book a Spa Day

Put in some time at your local spa for a massage or a full package: you can go alone or book a spa day with your partner or also with your family.

4. Visit Your Favorite or New Local Restaurants

With restrictions being removed, now more than ever is the time to support your local restaurants.

 5. Go to a Hotel in your Town for the Night

Why not scouting for the best offers on hotels in town and booking a night? It may sound weird, but this is one of the best things to do during your staycation: hotels tend to reduce their rates for the day if they don’t sell out, and who can avail of these if not the people who already live in the city and want to do something different? Imagine having access to a hotel breakfast the morning after.

6. Visit an Amusement Park

Amusement Parks may not be for everyone, but if you are into them, visit the closest one and enjoy it. Lots of parks offer admission discounts if you buy online or if you are local, so make sure you check what’s going on and plan accordingly.

7. Hit the Pool or Beach!

Summers were meant for being in the water so hit the closest pool or beach. Grab a magazine, a towel, a cocktail, and you’re all set for the day!

8. Sleep

Yes, just like you would do if you’re were on holiday somewhere else. Sleeping is a fundamental activity of every holiday, and it has to be considered in the same way even when you’re staycationing. Deactivate your alarm clock, sleep in for as long as you like, and don’t feel guilty at all: sleeping is a respectable and well-deserved activity!

We want to see your summer fun in and around the community! POST A PHOTO OR A VIDEO TO YOUR INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT use the hashtag #VanMetreStaycation and tag your apartment community in your post.

The post #VanMetreStaycation – Be a tourist in your hometown! appeared first on Fairfax Square Blog.

Spring is in the air and it’s time for a little refresh. Along with a good spring clean, adding new bright decor or simply moving furniture around can feel like a breath of fresh air. Here are some great ways to brighten up your apartment for spring.

Bring the outdoors in with house plants

Plants can always help to bring some life and fresh air to your apartment. Indoor plants not only make your living space more inviting and luxurious; they also make your home’s air healthier. If you don’t have much of a green thumb, there are plant options that are low maintenance and don’t need a lot of care. Choose your plants based on your lifestyle. Bringing in fresh flowers in a beautiful vase can also add a fantastic accent and a fresh fragrance to any room.

Include New Details

The tiniest changes can have a huge impact in a room, creating an area you’re excited to return to after a busy day. For example, a new duvet cover and fluffy pillows can change the whole atmosphere of the oasis that is your bedroom. Or we can always rely on mirrors. A full-length mirror is a beautiful accent to add to any area to trick the eye and make the room seem larger than it actually is. This can be perfect for a cozier apartment setting.

For the bathroom, a new shower curtain and bathroom accessories can really switch it up. An expensive set of towels is another excellent investment, since you use them every day, and they offer a luxurious feel for a small price.

As for the living room, a warm-light lamp will add a homey feel to it. New candles can spread an amazing fragrance while adding an extra level of coziness to a room. When you’re relaxing at the end of a long day, lighting some candles, cuddling up on the couch with a soft blanket and a good book can help you unwind completely.

Give Rugs Some Thought

Does it feel like your floors need some attention? Whether your apartment has carpeting or hardwood floors, a new area rug can give the room flair and add a whole new vibe to the atmosphere. There's a reason they say area rugs can bring a living space together – with this piece, you can make an incomplete room feel more composed almost seamlessly. Use the existing decor in your apartment to choose a color that would look best but be sure to keep popular spring pastels in mind to follow seasonal trends.

Pops of Color

Bring color to your bedroom by mixing in new throw pillows, blankets, and vases in a spring-appropriate hue. Whether you’re switching up the neutral shade on all the walls or adding a bold accent on just one of them, a fresh coat of paint can bring a room from 10 to 100. The colors we surround ourselves with can impact our moods and evoke emotion, so choose your color palette based on how you want to feel.

Treat Yourself

Have you been eyeing that mini Keurig machine for a while? How about a stand mixer? After all, you deserve it for all the spring-cleaning work you’ve done. This is the perfect time to splurge on something for yourself and your home, especially after decluttering and creating free space for new stuff.

Spring is all about incorporating decor that makes you feel comforted and happy when you see it.

Be creative as you infuse spring into your apartment. A joyful apartment will give anyone who enters an instant mood boost.

The post Spring is here. Time to discover your spring look. appeared first on Fairfax Square Blog.

Many times throughout life a fresh start is just what we need to get back some joy in our lives. As bad as this year may have been, 2021 can be your chance for a new beginning.
 

1. Commit to becoming more physically fit.

You don’t have to become a world-class athlete to get up and move more. Maybe you’ll set a goal of completing a 5K race. Perhaps more realistic is deciding to walk around the community or nearby park twice a week – or leaving the car at home when running nearby errands and riding a bike instead. What’s important is finding a routine that works for you – and then sticking to it.

2. Plan new activities

While 2020 may have taught us that life can be unpredictable, it shouldn’t stop you from planning new things to do in life. Life is full of experiences just waiting for you to take a chance on.

3. Look for ways to brighten someone else’s life.

We asked nearly 2 million people across the globe what one thing makes them feel most fulfilled, and GIVING has consistently been among their top answers. No matter where we live, there’s no shortage of people, causes, or organizations that can benefit from our time, expertise, or resources. Not only are we as humans biologically wired to share with others, but research from National Institutes of Health neuroscientist Jorge Moll found we get an actual “helper’s high” – thanks to the release of addictive feel-good neurotransmitters – when we do.

Kick off 2021 with a home free from clutter and mess:

4. Clean out your closet

According to one estimate, on average, consumers buy 68 garments a year. That means there’s a lot you might have to remove from your closet.

Cleaning out your closet space will give you a chance to have a simple wardrobe entering the new year. Most likely a closet all about comfort as Americans are leaning towards athletic wear and casual attire.

5. Declutter your home

Along with clothes, you probably filled up your home with other items that you don’t use as much as you thought you would.

Look through all of the rooms in your home for any items you bought this year. If you haven’t been using them in the last few months, consider getting rid of it. If the item is seasonal, and you can recall using it a lot during the specific season, it may be worth keeping.

Getting rid of items you didn’t use much will free you of clutter in your space, and make more room for things that will bring you more joy.

6. Tap into 2021's biggest interior trends to reinvent and refresh your home for the year ahead

Earthy color palettes, multipurpose rooms, and more. Home decor trends for 2021 are all about creating a home that's comfortable, functional, and most importantly, a reflection of you. We'll cheers to that!

Every year, we look at Jan. 1 as a symbol of a fresh start and a chance to have our “best year yet.” This mindset feels more urgent than ever this year.

This doesn’t mean you can’t look at the new year as a clean slate, though. In fact, experts say it’s important to look at the new year as a new start and shake off as many of those 2020 vibes as you can.

Are you ready for a fresh start?

The post Make the Most of the Fresh Start of a New Year! appeared first on Fairfax Square Blog.

Here are just a few ways to fill your living space with the sights and smells of the year’s most cozy season.

Throws and Pillows and Blankets, Oh My

Kill two birds with one stone (keeping warm and decorating for fall) by putting some beautiful throws and comfy blankets out on display. There’s nothing better than cozying up with an earth-toned blanket on a lazy day. To create a “fall vibe” in your home, go for classic prints, like plaid, and materials like chunky cable knit. We especially love this one from Pier One Imports, this cable knit throw from Wayfair, or this inexpensive pumpkin throw pillow.

Light Those Candles

As the days get darker, you’ll need a little more light in your house to lift your spirits. Gather tea lights, votives, and rustic lanterns! Buy fall-scented candles to make your apartment feel (and smell) like an autumn haven. (Just don’t forget to blow them out before you go out or go to bed!)

Pumpkins!

Using mini pumpkins as accents for your home is such a cute way to welcome fall into your home! You can buy all different colors, shapes, and sizes from Trader Joe’s or any grocery store throughout the U.S.

Make a Wreath

Dress up doors, windows, or even an empty space above your stove or mantel with a colorful fall wreath. You can buy them rather inexpensively, or make one yourself using cobs of corn, mini pumpkins, zucchini, berry garlands or autumnal flowers to add splashes of orange, reds, yellows and browns. 

Berry Garland

If you have a banister or a mantle, run a beautiful berry garland along the wood to make just the right fall statement.

Create a Fall Centerpiece for Your Table

Decorate your table with a homemade centerpiece made from fall flowers, pumpkins, leaves, pine cones, and of course, candles. All you’ll really need is a few fall elements, a table top, and some imagination to create something that looks festive at every meal. Or, simply place different sizes of fall vegetables, gourds, pumpkins, etc. on the dining room table for a (cost-effective) centerpiece.

Fall Flowers

Use dahlias, ranunculus, and foraged clippings from your yard, even leaves and branches. Then style them in a simple vase, or rustic pot (depending upon the size of your arrangement) to create an arrangement that would look perfect on your mantel.

The post Filling your Apartment with Fall Decor appeared first on Fairfax Square Blog.

We find ourselves in the middle of unprecedented times where we are adapting to so much change all at once. Focusing on what you can control in times of uncertainty is one of the best well-being and resiliency strategies there is. Identify ways you can make goals happen in small and meaningful ways and remember, be gentle with yourself. One choice or one day will not make or break you. 

1. Routine is key. The number one thing that has seemed to have changed during coronavirus is our daily routine that got turned upside down. Without a structured routine and full day to feel an entire day at home may be tempting to just let the day unfold. Resist the urge, because maintaining structure is critical for physical and mental well-being.

2. Remember you zzz's. Sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your physical and mental health. Sleep supports your immune system, mental health, and overall well-being in many ways. Aim for 7-9 hours of good quality sleep a night and avoid the temptation to stay up all-night binge-watching Netflix or, worse, scrolling through (never uplifting) news.

3. Fuel your body. It may be easy to snack while home all day but fuel your body with quality nutrition which will help you sustain energy levels and boost immunity during this time. Focus on meals that include lean protein, fruits, vegetables and fiber-rich carbohydrates (think whole-wheat pasta, quinoa, sweet potatoes and oats). 

4. Get Going. Staying at home doesn't have to mean sitting still. Regular movement throughout the day helps boost your energy, reduce stress and minimize tightness and discomfort—all things that are so critically important during these times. Exercise can also help you feel more mentally grounded. 

5. DIY. You've been pushing off those at home projects for years well now is your chance! Use breaks to work on things around the house or creating fun projects for you and your family.

6. You Time. Lastly, don't forget to schedule time for you. Create boundaries for those things that are most important to you. Boundaries are something you can control, and they give you the time and space to take care of yourself. What do you need to feel your best?

The post Ways to Practice Self-Care During Quarantine appeared first on Fairfax Square Blog.

Summer is in full swing! And while we may not be able to jet off to some faraway waterfront locale, we can still get in on the easy summertime living. That means fresh, local food at the farmers’ market, warm walks around the community, and maybe even a picnic or two. It also means you should start thinking about freshening up the decor in your apartment. Ready to dress your home up for a summery staycation? Here are a few simple decorating ideas to help you welcome summer into your home.

Keep It Light With White. Paint everything white, from the walls to the furniture and then use cream, sand, or white textiles. The idea is to invite as much light into the room as possible.

Accessorize with citrus and herbs. Love the fresh produce that pops up locally every summer? A planter full of fresh basil or mint would make the perfect centerpiece for your dining room table. A bowl filled with lemons and limes would also make a colorful statement!

Printed pillows and blankets. One of the easiest things to change up at home are your throw pillows and blankets. For summer, consider going with bright, bold patterns in the shades you associate with summer. Yellow chevron; orange checks; bright green gingham. You can also play around with nature prints—maybe lemons to match the bowl on your table!

Nature-inspired materials. Take summer as an opportunity to bring different textures into your space. Maybe a jute rug, a few pieces of wicker furniture, or even just some new houseplants.

Amp Up the Bar. Fresh and fruity summer cocktails deserve a dedicated station. Whip up a mojito or mai tai at a well-stocked table.

Nautical or beachy accents. In place of your shore vacation this year, spruce up your space with natural objects and nautical-themed decor like seashells, coral, or throw pillows in lobster or anchor motifs.

The post Summer Decorating Ideas For a Stylish Staycation appeared first on Fairfax Square Blog.