Summer’s Soft Goodbye

Layered textures, slow storms, and a front yard that’s saying farewell to summer

Realistic magnolia leaf wreath

There’s a certain kind of goodbye that doesn’t announce itself.
It lingers—like the last golden hour, the steam from a coffee cup, or the way a summer storm rolls in slow and sweet.

That’s how our front yard feels right now.

We’re not to fall yet, but the light is starting to shift. The air has a different hum. And I’ve been leaning into that quiet in-between with a few simple touches outside our front door that feel rooted, relaxed, and ready for what’s next.

Here’s a peek at what’s setting the tone:

1. A Magnolia Leaf Wreath that Feels Like Home

Magnolias have always said “Southern welcome” to me. This season, I found a magnolia leaf wreath that looks rich and lifelike without being too bold. The leaves have just enough variation in tone to feel dimensional up close, and it holds up beautifully on hot days and through passing storms.

I love how it brings subtle movement and warmth to the front door — a gentle nod to what’s been blooming, and what’s still to come.

2. Faux Window Box Plants (That Don’t Look Faux)

My secret to great looking window boxes in the dead of summer

I used to swear off faux plants outdoors — but hear me out. When done well, they can be a game-changer for curb appeal, especially in those tricky spots where the hose won’t reach or the light’s inconsistent.

Here’s my formula for getting faux window boxes right:

• Keep your distance: If they’re far from the road or sidewalk, you instantly get a little visual grace.

• Mix your textures: Think beyond boxwood! I layer in different shades and varieties of faux green amongst the pink and white flowers. The thrillers, fillers, and spillers rule can also apply here, just like with real plants. Varying the heights and shapes keeps it lush.

• Surround them with real greenery: Ground them (literally) with live plants in the beds below. My new limelight hydrangeas add real movement and seasonal charm nearby — the blend makes everything look intentional and full.

🌿 Shop my exact window box picks here →

3. The Layered Front Door Mat Look

Layered front door look

You know I love a layered moment. At the door, I kept things neutral — a large, natural woven base mat topped with a simple cream look with tassles. It adds texture without competing with the wreath or the soft green tones and color of the window boxes.

This combo is part of my Front Porch Edit →

Ranger Station tomato candle

4. That Tomato Leaf Candle in the Window

If summer had a scent? It might be my tomato leaf candle — bright, earthy, and unexpectedly nostalgic. I’ve been keeping it lit in the front window lately, just above the flower bed view. It makes even an afternoon rainstorm feel like a little ritual. I’m bummed I couldn’t find the Ranger Station brand I love (local to Nashville!), but you can find some of their products on Amazon. I did find a tomato candle in beautiful red glass that I’ve added to my favorites list…

🍅 See it in my Summer Home Scents list →

5. Summer Storms + Soft Light

Maybe my favorite part of this whole front yard refresh? The summer storm footage I caught the other day. The limelights bobbing in the wind. The wreath gently shifting on the door. The smell of rain, the sound of quiet.

You can feel the season stretching out… not quite done, not quite gone. It’s a mood. Check it out here.

PIN IT FOR LATER

A neutral summer porch with subtle Southern charm and soft-season transitions 🌿

Pin this summer front door look with stained glass windows and realistic magnolia leaf wreath!