We live in southern Louisiana and that means we don’t actually have a true winter (i.e. snow, warm jackets, long dark days). But being the Midwest people that we are, Andy and I still try to recreate the mid-winter feeling that is familiar to us in our home. Our roots run deep and out of habit we make the soups, brew the tea, light the candles, grow the indoor plants, and bring out the cozy blankets. While we are fortunate to get outside in short sleeves almost everyday, I still enjoy everything that comes with creating a winter home. For my friends up north, I know you are not looking forward to the long days ahead! But isn’t there something wonderful hidden in those cold, slow, dark days? Something about the winter season reminds me to savor the present moment. It creates circumstances to spend more time with loved ones, cook warming food, and enjoy simply being with those around us. No matter where you live you can still achieve that cozy winter feeling and enjoy this season. From the Vege home to yours, here are some of our favorite ways to make the most of this winter season.
Greenery
For those of you who have a green thumb, this can mean bringing in plants. I’m a fan of picking up a basil plant from Trader Joes to bring some life into my kitchen. This year, I’ll be starting seedlings for our spring garden and trying out indoor microgreens garden that I got for my birthday! If you are not of the green thumb type, you can still bring in the benefits of green through pillow accents or fresh cut flowers.
Texture and Layers
Winter can mean a lot of grey and blah if you don’t have snow. I’m not a big seasonal decorator but will break out some warmer textures and layers in the winter months. We always add a cozy layer to our bed with a duvet insert and quilted blanket. I recently updated the pillows on our couch to include wool and more florals which has brought a new life to our living room. There is no need to blow your budget when decorating for winter. It can even be as simple as new sheets, a cozy blanket or new lounge wear.
Lighting
Shorter days doesn’t have to mean less light! When the sun starts to go down it’s “lamp o’ clock” in our household. We switch from our overhead lighting to lamps for a cozier vibe. We recently got a raffia woven lamp shade that I’m just loving. It not only brings in more warmth but it also creates a great texture!
Candles
I would be remiss to not include a section about candles for our winter home. This is a staple for us! When Andy and I get up in the morning, we immediately light a candle and enjoy a quiet 5 minutes together drinking coffee before Josie wakes up. And when dinner is done and we are winding down for the day, again, the candles are lit. During the winter we gravitate towards richer, creamier, deeper scents for the ultimate cozy vibe. While I do love a good luxurious candle there are also many budget friendly ones. I did a round up on my favorite candles including ones on both the high end and low end of things.
Bathroom Updates
A long hot shower is my definition of self-care these days and in the winter it can be even more restorative. Upgrading some of your everyday shower products can help make your bathroom transportive during the winter months. My favorite winter bathroom updates include a display of bath salts, new hand soap and lotion, luxurious bath oil, a warm candle and cozy bath towels. Simple updates that help create a sanctuary.
Everyday Items
More time in my home during cold dark days means using more of my things. I realize what I love and what is just getting me by with more touches. If you can, I recommend investing in items that will elevate your everyday experience: a new pepper grinder, a milk frother, a chef-worthy soup pot. I love finding beautiful things that I get to use everyday because it makes me want to spend more time in my home. After the holidays, many of these items are also on sale to clear out last year’s inventory.
Your Winter Home
