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This is my first real fall in two decades, and I’m soaking it all in (you can read my seasonal plans here).
I moved to Buffalo to have a better quality of life—one I don’t want to escape from—and part of that has been slowing down to appreciate small joys: the library having books ready for pickup, the bus arriving on time, the Bills being undefeated, or even just a cool breeze by the canal.
As the leaves start turning, here are the things I’ve been reaching for this season:
Candles & Incense
Using clean scents in my home has become a non-negotiable. This year, I stocked up on candles from Pacha (favorites: Farmhouse Cider, Tobacco and Cozy Vanilla, and Pumpkin Amber), and I couldn’t resist picking up a locally-sourced candle from Inwood Candle in the scent Mission Fig—it’s heavenly.
I’ve also been burning Quoth the Raven incense from Sea Witch Botanicals, a sultry mix of orange, cinnamon, and clove essential oils that makes the whole house feel like fall.
Style
Since this is my first true fall in ages, I’m still figuring out what I’ll want to wear every day, but layering has already become key. My closet is full of thrifted sweaters and cardigans, plus a growing Bills Mafia wardrobe—think thrifted sweatshirts and fan-approved beanies. Cozy + team spirit feels like the perfect combo.
Beauty
I’ve been leaning into seasonal beauty with press-on nails: cat-eye purple for Halloween and metallic blue for Bills games. For self-care nights, the TonyMoly “I’m Pumpkin” sheet mask is perfect for both hydration and vibes. I’m also rotating in cozy scents like Orabella Nightcap and Le Monde Gourmand’s Pistachio Brulee and Chai Epice—both warm and nostalgic, like bottled autumn.
Food & Drinks
My freezer is stocked with RoRo’s pumpkin cinnamon rolls, my fridge with Athletic’s Oktoberfest NA beer, and my pantry with football + spooky season snacks (popcorn, nuts, olives, chips and salsa). From the farmers market, I’ve been grabbing apples and apple cider, and making hearty meals like tortilla soup and chili.
Entertainment
Even without a set fall TBR, I’m thrilled to be within walking distance of the library. For TV, my lineup is a mix of spooky and cozy: both new Dexter seasons, Only Murders in the Building, and season three of Yellowjackets. On crafty nights, I’ll be reaching for my Fuzzy Hygge coloring book and working on my Rolife Sunshine Town DIY Book Nook Shelf Insert Kit (which I can’t wait to build).
Atmosphere & Cozy Rituals
I’ve been starting my mornings with a “Fall Jazz” playlist on Spotify, and in the evenings, I love putting on seasonal ambiance videos while I read. My favorite YouTube channels for this are Cozy Coffee Shop and Calmed by Nature—they’re like instant mood setters.
And of course, I’m pulling out my beloved vampire coffee mug, which I bought last year to commemorate the year I finally read the Twilight series. Sipping cider or coffee from it feels like the perfect mix of cozy and cheeky nostalgia.
Wrapping Up
Fall feels brand new to me, and I’m embracing all the little rituals that make the season special—whether it’s lighting a candle, layering up in a thrifted sweater, or pressing play on a cozy playlist. Here’s to savoring the season, one small joy at a time.
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