I’m so excited about this fall. Last fall was the best of my life: the weather was insanely perfect and lasted into mid December, I got introduced to fall fashion at Aritzia, and I submitted my application to the University of Illinois! This year, though, I’m pretty sure has topped all that. I boxed up my life and took it to Champaign, IL and became an Illini, I met amazing humans purposefully placed in my life by God, and I was offered the Operational Vice President position in my collegiate fashion club. So many things happened to me this season, good and bad. I grew so much.
That’s why, I wanted to identify my #fallfrugalfun activities for those of us on a small budget. Of course, my favorite thing to do is put on a million layers and take blog pictures with my best friends (thank you Shannon for modeling for this post), but here is a list of my other favorites:
Whether in a nearby forest preserve or in a local downtown area, long walks are so beautiful in the fall, and they cost nothing! I love to bundle up in a turtleneck sweater and black jeans (obviously) with my big diamond mosaic scarf from Aritzia. Once there’s no possible area of skin for the cold to touch, I can focus on my company, if I go with someone else, or just spend time thinking about myself and the world.
During this time of the year, almost every school and local church hosts a holiday concert. Since I’m one of the few people supporting holiday music on Nov. 1st, for me, it’s arguably the best part of the season. I make a point of trying to attend as many free performances as possible. Shout out to Hinsdale Central, my alma mater, for putting on such an inspiring show last night!
Even if you’re drinking coffee alone, sitting at a coffee shop for hours is a great feeling. The social ambiance gives you the energy of other people around, and there’s the possibility of new connections. Different people come in and out in a hurry, but you are not subject to the clock. Sitting at a large table and working on work or reading a book in an aesthetically appealing environment is an unparalleled experience. And it only costs as much as one Pumpkin Spice Latte.
When I was little it was Bengston’s Pumpkin Farm, now it’s Curtis Apple Orchard. Regardless, I alway try to make it to a local farm at least once during the fall. Being surrounded by thousands of families and friends making memories is something special. You can buy apple cider donuts, pick out a perfect pumpkin, and take artsy, seasonal pictures. Most farms only cost 10-12 dollars to enter, which is perfect while saving up a holiday budget!
If you are saving up a holiday budget try out this financial software.
