There’s something about fall that makes life feel like a movie. The crisp air, the crunch of leaves under your boots, the sudden urge to journal in coffee shops — it’s basically main-character season. Instead of just going through the motions, I’m choosing to lean into the little things and make this season feel special. Here’s how I’ll be romanticizing my life this fall (and maybe you’ll want to try a few too).

1. Slow mornings that feel cinematic

No more hitting snooze twelve times. I’m talking cinnamon coffee in a real mug (not a travel one), a candle burning on my desk, and maybe even making breakfast that requires a fork. It feels indulgent but honestly, it just makes me less grumpy before 9 a.m.

2. Walking like I’m in a movie

Headphones in, oversized scarf on, latte in hand. Whether it’s Taylor’s Red album or a French café playlist, I like to pretend the city sidewalks are my stage. Every glance out the window feels like a shot in a rom-com.

3. Baking like I live in a cottagecore TikTok

This is my favorite fall ritual. I’ve been making the same apple cinnamon bread for years, and let me tell you — it never misses. My friends request it, my kitchen smells like a Bath & Body Works candle, and I feel like a domestic goddess even if the rest of my space is a mess. Pumpkin bread, spiced cookies, apple crisp… all welcome here, but that apple cinnamon bread? Always the star.

4. Dressing the part

Fall fashion is elite. Knit sweaters, plaid skirts, suede boots, even that oversized blazer I swear makes me smarter. Even if I’m just working from home, throwing on something cute makes scrolling emails feel slightly less soul-crushing.

5. Making errands feel less… errand-y

Farmer’s market runs with a reusable tote, grabbing a bunch of flowers “just because,” or stopping for a croissant on my way home — it’s about making the boring stuff feel softer, prettier, more like a montage.

6. Reading for the vibe

Fall is the season for getting lost in a book. I picture myself curled up in a blanket with tea, flipping pages like I’m a character in You’ve Got Mail. And while a little mystery or dark academia never hurts, I love me a cozy romance read — something that makes me kick my feet and swoon a little. It just fits the season perfectly.

7. Building tiny traditions

Fall only lasts so long, so why not create traditions? Pumpkin picking, baking something new every Sunday, rewatching Gilmore Girls… little rituals make the season memorable and something to look forward to year after year.

Basically, I’m choosing to lean into the cozy clichés. Life feels better when you treat it like it deserves a soundtrack and a little extra whipped cream on top.

PS: if you try baking one thing this fall, let it be apple cinnamon bread. Trust me — it’s main-character energy in loaf form.

Love, Laura