My Top 10 Ways to Cozify Your Home

Whether you’re walking into your own space or you have a guest over, the way your home looks and smells can elicit a feeling. Clutter and trash translate to anxiety and unrest, while warmth and thoughtful additions can immediately give you a sigh of relief. Today I’m breaking down the top 10 ways that you can create a cozy and intentional home, without breaking the bank, and most likely using what you already own. 

After a long day of work, or when you’re trying to host, the most important thing you can do is give you and your guests a slice of peace. Let’s create that, one piece at a time.

1. Soft blankets! Every room has an opportunity for blankets. Whether draped on a chair, couch, beds, or even in a blanket basket (I also love a good blanket ladder), have them available for use when it’s cold and create an ambience of comfort. The softer, the better. 

2. Don’t use the big light. This is an ongoing joke on social media - but there’s a reason for the craze! Light that emits from ceiling fans and ceilings in general are often harsh white light. Instead, opt for table or standing lamps that emit warm lighting or have adjustable dimming features. Switch out bright bulbs for something a bit more tolerable. Have an area that could use lighting? Amazon and other stores now have chargeable light bulbs that come with remotes - so you can now have a lamp with no electricity required!

3. Candle warmers. We all know how an open flame poses risks. Candle warmers are a great option to boost scents through your home, while also adding a warm light to any space. Look for clean burning or even beeswax candles for the best effects that won’t bother you and your guests' allergies!

4. Simmer post. Pinterest has some amazing inspiration when it comes to simmer pot recipes. Put all of your ingredients in a pot and let it simmer to emanate warmth and cozy all-over. I’ve even started to see some using their candle warmers with a heat-resistant glass to hold their simmer ingredients, what a crafty alternative! Our favorite? Slice some oranges, and throw in some cinnamon sticks and rosemary to a pot of water for a gorgeous fall combination. 

5. Essential oils in a diffuser. See a scent trend? The way your home smells can directly affect your mood. Look for pure and ingredients and stay away from the synthetic stuff. Combine fun scents depending on what you’re looking for - lavender helps relax and calm, peppermint is known for focus and great for headaches, eucalyptus is wonderful for your sinuses - and the list goes on. Do your research and combine scents to craft your signature scent.

6. Area rugs. Ok hear me out, area rugs are an absolute game changer to help bring together a space. Define a room, bring out an accent color, or provide a comfortable space for kids and shoe-less friends. The same can be said for accent pillows on couches and beds. Whether you have hardwood, tile, or carpet itself, play with colors and textures that feel right to you.

   
   

   

7. Bring in the green. Meaning - have some plants around! Whether you opt for real or fake (I always love a real fig tree when you can), nature grounds a space, makes it feel alive, and provides peace.

8. Trays are another way to bring style and intention. Whether on a coffee table, on top of a bed, or any space it works, display functional items like remotes and mix in decorative and personal. For example, remote + candle + book, remote + small photo + vase, etc. This can instantly elevate a sometimes looked-over space.

9. Use books for more than reading. We love a coffee table book! They make great conversation starters, but also wonderful display pieces. Use a stack of 2-3 to prop up candles, plants, or photos on a side table or on a shelf. Pick something you’re passionate about, something aesthetically pleasing, or your favorite read. Thrift these pieces or go high-end at places like Anthropologie to find some amazing pieces you’re proud of.

10. Pick a few things to personalize your space. While we love a good art piece from places like Home Goods, At Home, or Wayfair, does it tell the story of who you are? Add in special touches that mean something to you, like a framed handwritten note from your grandmother, display a family recipe in the kitchen, or that old guitar or camera you treasure from your dad. By adding personality into the mix, you’re inserting instant warmth.

What else do you cultivate in your space to make it feel more like home? It’s amazing to me how just small touches can bring you joy. It’s all about continuing to craft moments that feel good, especially when it comes to the experience in your home, and that feels worth investing in.