3 Small Ways to Make Someone Feel Welcome This Fall

There is something lovely about getting our homes ready for fall. A few pumpkins by the door, pretty napkins on the table, and something good simmering on the stove can make an ordinary day feel special.

But while we are adding these little touches, we can also ask ourselves: Who could I share this with?

Maybe a neighbor has recently moved in. A friend has had a difficult week. Or someone you enjoy keeps saying, “We need to get together!” Perhaps this is the week to make that happen.

In Simple Hospitality, I wrote, “They will remember how it felt to be there and how nice it was to be invited.”

Here are three simple ways to offer that welcome this fall.

1. Give a small, specific invitation

“Come over sometime” is a lovely thought. Giving someone a day and time helps turn that thought into a visit!

You could say, “Would you like to come over for coffee Thursday morning?” Or, “We’re having soup Sunday evening. Would you join us?”

Keep it easy enough that you will enjoy it, too. Coffee and something from the bakery can be a delightful way to spend an hour together. A pot of soup, bread, and an extra place at the table can make a friend feel included.

Think of someone you have been meaning to see. Send the invitation before you talk yourself out of it!

2. Add one thoughtful detail

It is fun to think about the person who is coming and what might make them comfortable.

If you know your friend enjoys a particular tea, have it ready. If children are coming, put out a few crayons and some paper where they can sit nearby. Set a little bowl of their favorite snack on the table.

Pretty things can be simple, too. A small pumpkin, a flower tucked into a little vase, or paper napkins in beautiful fall colors can bring a bit of cheer to the table.

Choose one detail that says, “I thought of you.”

And when your guest arrives, pause what you are doing and greet them warmly. Let them know you are glad they came!

3. Take a little welcome with you

Some people could use encouragement but may not have the time or energy for a visit.

Could you take a friend a portion of the soup you are already making? Leave a little loaf of pumpkin bread with a neighbor? Mail a card to someone you have been thinking about?

Include a few words of your own: “I hope this makes your busy week a little easier,” or “You came to mind today, and I wanted you to know.”

If you are dropping something off, check first about a convenient time. Offering to leave it at the door can be a kindness in itself.

A little invitation for this week

As you read, did someone come to mind?

Choose one idea and one person. You might invite them over, prepare a thoughtful little welcome, or take something to their door.

Give yourself grace about the rest. There will be other opportunities another day.

My hope is that this fall, as we enjoy the beauty of the season, we will also find a few simple ways to share it. You never know how much an invitation might mean to the person who receives it!

For more everyday ideas and encouragement, I would love for you to explore Simple Hospitality: An Invitation to Add Kindness to Your Everyday Life or join my monthly newsletter, Fun Mail.

You can sign up here: https://jenniferboydauthor.myflodesk.com/newsletter