The Top Outdoor Flea Markets | Out & About

Looking for a unique decor piece or vintage find? Lucky for you, SoCal is full of outdoor flea markets with ultra-cool digs. From Santa Monica to the San Fernando Valley, check out one of the markets listed below:  

Santa Monica Airport Outdoor Antique & Collectible Market

When: The 1st & 4th Sunday of Every Month

Make your way to Santa Monica Airport for a trove of vintage finds and antique collectibles. When it comes to outdoor flea markets, this is a must for residents of the westside. All admission on the first Sunday of the month is $4; On the fourth Sunday, it’s $7 between 6-8 am; $5 after 8 am; Children under 14 are free; Free parking on the first and fourth Sundays.

PCC Flea Market

When: The 1st Sunday of each month

Set inside a parking garage, the Pasadena Flea Market may not have the typical setting, but the selection is worth the trip. Find loads of home decor, vintage clothing, art, etc., for sale. If you are a music lover, you’ll be in paradise with vintage concert t-shirts, collectibles, and more.

Rose Bowl Flea Market

When: The 2nd Sunday of every month

Well curated and full of absolute gems, the Rose Bowl Flea Market has much to offer. As far as outdoor flea markets go, you’ll find vintage furniture, antiques, home decor, fabric, jewelry, clothing, toys, collectibles, and more here!

Long Beach Antique Market

When: The 3rd Sunday of every month

The Long Beach Flea Market might not be as vast as the Rose Bowl Flea market, but there is still plenty to be found in LB. With well-curated vintage bargains on a smaller scale, the Long Beach Flea Market is an ideal outing for the entire family. 

Topanga Vintage Market

When: The 4th Sunday of every month

San Fernando Valley’s outdoor market has plenty of cool finds to peruse through. Although much smaller than the others, you can still find some incredible vintage finds.

Melrose Trading Post

When: Every Weekend

No true Californian will pass up the chance to visit the Melrose Trading Post. This mini flea takes place every weekend at a local LA high school. Considerably a local icon, you may not find as many unique pieces at this flea market, but you’ll be sure to have a good time.

September is National Preparedness Month | Home Tips

September is National Preparedness Month – meaning it’s time to make sure you are prepared! Keeping your loved ones safe is, of course, a top priority. Having the skills, knowledge, and tools to handle an emergency will give you peace of mind.

In Southern California, we’ve had our fair share of natural disasters that have impacted many. So it is important that you and your family prepare and have a strategy in the event of an emergency.

With that said, let’s share what steps to take to stay prepared and alert should disaster strike.

How to be prepared during National Preparedness Month.

1. HAVE A KIT READY

Buy or build an emergency preparedness kit that would sustain your family for up to 14 days. You would need to make sure it is portable and placed in an easily accessible area. Likewise, every member of the family must be made aware of the designated area.

Your kit should include:

  • water,
  • non-perishable food items,
  • batteries
  • battery operated radio
  • Whistle (to signal for help)
  • First aid kit
  • Masks
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags
  • Manual can opener (for tinned food)
  • Flashlight
  • Cell phone with chargers
  • Power banks for cellphones
  • Do not forget to factor in food for pets and children if it applies.

2. HAVE A PLAN

Communication is key. Have a contingency plan in place that is clear and detailed. Likewise, all the occupants of your home will need to know what steps to follow. The plan should cover home emergencies and out-of-home emergencies. Please see the American Redcross Family Disaster Plan Template, as it gives you a detailed guide on what you would need to cover.

3. STAY INFORMED

With the rise of social media and the internet, information is readily available. Ensure you are following reputable pages and sites and register with FEMA preparedness programs.

4. CPR CERTIFIED

At least one member of the family needs to be trained in CPR. Should an event occur, you will be the first responder and may have to save a life. It is imperative that have enough knowledge and skill to perform CPR and check vitals whilst waiting for emergency personnel to reach you.

Natural disasters can be sudden and devastating therefore, the time to prepare for all types of emergencies is now to avoid being court off guard.

Economic Update | Week Ending September 21, 2024

The Federal Reserve began its cycle of rate cuts with the first rate cut in four years – Declaring that inflation has come under control, the Fed dropped its key rates by ½% on Wednesday. With inflation spiking bringing the CPI to 9.1% in June 2022 the Fed enacted one of the most aggressive rate hike campaigns in history. They increased rates steadily until they hit a 25-year high. Now that the CPI has worked its way down, it measured 2.5% in August, the Fed has begun a campaign of dropping rates to a more “neutral rate” from their previous “restrictive rate.” Experts expect two more drops before the end of the year, likely .25% each. Next Friday we will get the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) report, a gauge of inflation that is a Fed favorite. One week from Friday we will get the September Jobs report. Those reports will have an impact on bond yields and mortgage rates which did not drop after the Fed announced their rate drop. That drop was expected and was already “built into” long-term bond yields and mortgage rates.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 42,063.36, up 1.6% from 41,393.78 last week. It is up 11.6% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,702.55, up 1.4% from 5,626.78 last week. The S&P is up 19.6% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 17,948.32, up 1.5% from 17,683.98 last week. It is up 19.6% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields up slightly this week – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 3.73%, up from 3.66% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.07%, up from 3.93% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of September 19, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.09%, down from 6.2% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.15%, down from 5.27% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

Home sales data is released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the National Association of Realtors and the California Association of Realtors. These are August’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales August 2024 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 3.86 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in August, down 4.2% from an annualized rate of 4.03 million last August. The median price for a home in the U.S. in August was $416,700, up 3.1% from $404,200 one year ago. There was a 4.2 months’ supply of homes for sale in August, up from a 3.3 months’ supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 26% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 19% of all sales. All-cash purchases accounted for 26% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 1% of all sales.

August California existing-home sales report – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 262,050 on an annualized rate in August, up 2.8% from a revised 254,820 homes sold on an annualized basis last August. The statewide median price paid for a home in July was $888,740 , up 3.4% from $859,670. one year ago. There was a 3.2 months’ supply of homes for sale, up from a 2.4-months’ supply in August 2023.

The graph below lists home sales data by county in Southern California.

Have a great weekend!

From Google Passkey to YouTube Hype and More! | Tech News

Stay connected with what’s happening in the world of tech! From Google Passkey to YouTube Hype and more, we have you covered on the latest. Read on for this week’s round-up of tech news from across the web.

 

Hipstamatic’s Party! Disposable Camera App Revives Event Photography

Hipstamatic’s new Party! Disposable Camera app recreates the charm of disposable film cameras for event photography, allowing guests to snap candid photos at weddings or other gatherings. Guests can use a custom QR code to download the app and join the event, with all photos collected in a private gallery available the day after, mimicking the anticipation of film development. The app is free for up to five users, with tiered pricing for larger groups. While similar apps exist, Hipstamatic’s Party! app stands out for its visual styles and focus on simulating the retro camera experience, though it’s limited to iPhone users.

Google Enhances Passkey Support in Chrome for Easier Access Across Devices

Google is upgrading passkey support in Chrome, making it easier to use passwordless sign-in credentials across multiple devices. The update introduces a Google Password Manager PIN, allowing users to securely save and sync passkeys across Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, with iOS support coming soon. This replaces the previous need to scan a QR code on Android devices, while maintaining security with end-to-end encryption. Users can unlock passkeys on new devices by using either their Android screen or the Password Manager PIN.

 

Microsoft Launches Windows App for Streaming Across Multiple Platforms

Microsoft has launched a new Windows app for macOS, iOS, iPadOS, web browsers, Android, and Windows PCs. The app serves as a hub for streaming Windows from sources like Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Remote Desktop, featuring a customizable homescreen, multi-monitor support, and USB redirection for local devices. Designed for work and school accounts, the app helps Remote Desktop users connect to work PCs from personal devices. While currently limited to business users, the app is part of Microsoft’s long-term vision of moving Windows to the cloud. The app is available on the Microsoft Store, Apple’s App Store, and in public preview on Android.

YouTube Introduces Hype to Boost Smaller Creators

YouTube is launching Hype, a new feature designed to help smaller channels grow by allowing users to promote their favorite videos. With the Hype button, users can recommend videos from channels with fewer than 500,000 subscribers, contributing to a platform-wide leaderboard. Each user gets three hypes per week, and the most-hyped videos are ranked, with smaller channels receiving more points per hype to ensure visibility. Hype aims to foster community engagement, offering creators bonuses and users rewards like badges and performance summaries for their hypes. This feature helps fans support emerging creators while making video discovery easier.

Amazon Launches New AI Tools to Enhance Shopping Experience

Amazon has introduced new generative AI tools to personalize the shopping experience for both customers and sellers. At the Amazon Accelerate event, the company unveiled features like personalized product recommendations based on customers’ preferences and shopping habits, as well as more relevant product descriptions tailored to user interests. For sellers, Amazon launched a free AI-powered video generator and live image tool, making video marketing more accessible. Additionally, “Project Amelia,” a chatbot offering personalized business insights, is being tested with select retailers. These AI updates aim to improve user engagement and seller performance on the platform.

Weekend Events | September 20 – September 22

As we continue on through the month of September, it’s time to dive into the weekend’s top events. From foodie focused to music and arts, there are plenty of things happening around town! Check out our weekend round-up for September 20 through September 22!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | September 20 – September 22 

Talks & Telescopes

When: October 19  

Where: Griffith Park

What: Interested in gazing through Mt. Wilson’s historic telescopes? The most affordable way to do so is at one of the Talks & Telescopes events. These monthly Saturday night gatherings feature astronomy lectures followed by several hours of stargazing through portable telescopes on the grounds, as well as the 60 and 100-inch telescopes, all for just $50—a fraction of the cost of the observatory’s late-night stargazing sessions.

 L.A. Times Food Bowl

When: September 20 – September 22 

Where: Hollywood

What: Indulge in one, two, or all three days of culinary exploration at this weekend-long event hosted by the L.A. Times Food section, featuring some of the city’s top restaurants. Each ticket provides unlimited food and drinks, along with access to live cooking demonstrations.

Frogtown Art Walk

When: September 21 

Where: Frogtown

What: If you need more evidence that Frogtown is buzzing, head to the Frogtown Art Walk. This Elysian Valley neighborhood, nestled between the 5 freeway and the L.A. River, is hosting an evening of art at various venues between Fletcher Drive and the Taylor Yard pedestrian bridge near Altman Street. Highlights include a hula hoop contest along the bike path, kitten adoptions at Salazar, poetry at the Blake Avenue Lofts, and live music at Frogtown Brewery and Spoke Bicycle Cafe. Biking and rideshare are encouraged.

 

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | September 20 – September 22 

Usher

When: September 21 through November 18 

Where: Inglewood 

What: If Usher’s Super Bowl performance left you feeling nostalgic, you’re in luck! The R&B star is bringing his talents to town this fall with a series of shows at the Intuit Dome, the new Clippers arena in Inglewood. Yeah!

‘Only Murders in the Building’ Escape Game

When: Until December 31 

Where: Century City 

What: The beloved murder mystery parody of true crime podcasts, Only Murders in the Building, comes to life with an exciting escape room experience. A section of Westfield Century City transforms into a mock movie set, where you and your team will be challenged to track down a missing film reel.

Aloha Market

When: September 20 – September 22 

Where: Santa Monica

What: Experience a slice of Hawaii without leaving Los Angeles at this pop-up market in Venice. From September 20 to 22, over 50 Hawaiian businesses and artisans will set up shop and participate in talks at 1511 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, next to the Brig. You’ll find coffee, sweets, and spirits, along with hands-on classes like lei making and perfumery (available for an additional fee).

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | September 20 – September 22 

Shakespeare in the Garden

When: September 21 

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation | 10459 Tuxford Street Los Angeles

What: Explore the botanical references in William Shakespeare’s works during this family-friendly cultural event at TPF’s demonstration gardens. On a Saturday afternoon, enjoy a picnic while delving into how the famous Bard used plants, trees, and flowers as metaphors in his writing, with many of the species having California native counterparts. Through a read-aloud session, attendees will break down examples of Shakespeare’s language, making it accessible to modern audiences. The event concludes with a unique monologue performance by a classically trained actor in the outdoor setting.

Halloween Horror Nights

When: September 13   

Where: Universal Studios | Universal City

What: Spooky season is creeping up, and the first sign is here: haunted houses have begun to take over Universal Studios. The theme park’s Halloween Horror Nights, just outside of Hollywood, features terrifying experiences inspired by A Quiet Place, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, Insidious, and The Purge, along with a chilling maze created by The Weeknd.

Hispanic Heritage Month Skate Night

When: September 20 

Where: Moonlight Rollerway, Inc. | 5110 San Fernando Road Glendale

What: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Night at Moonlight Rollerway with music, skating, delicious food, and fun for all ages! Join the festivities and experience the vibrant culture in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Don’t miss out!

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | September 20 – September 22 

Free Movies at the Park

When: September 20, 6pm – 9pm

Where: Thousand Oaks Community Park

What: Join Conejo Recreation and Park District for free Movies at the Park this summer at Thousand Oaks Community Park (2525 N. Moorpark Road). Enjoy Moana at sundown, with family activities starting an hour before. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner for a fun, free evening!

40th Annual Ventura County Coastal Cleanup Day

When: September 21, 9am – 12pm

Where: Locations Throughout Ventura County

What: The 40th Annual California Coastal Cleanup Day is happening on Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon at beaches and waterways across the state. Join @vccoastcleanupday to help remove trash and plastic pollution that has accumulated in our county since the last cleanup. Get involved and make a difference locally!

ArtWalk Ventura

When: September 21, 12pm – 5pm

Where: Downtown Ventura, Ventura

What: ArtWalk Ventura returns on September 21 and 22, 2024, offering a free, self-guided tour through Ventura’s historic Downtown and Westside Cultural District. This community event features over 200 artists from Southern California showcasing and selling their work, along with live performances from the Ventura County Ballet, Rubicon Theater, aerial dancers, and more. New this year is the Ventura Film Festival and Poetry Reading at the Museum of Ventura County’s Pavilion.

Mortgage Rate Update | September 19, 2024

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of September 19, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.09%, down from 6.2% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.15%, down from 5.27% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

The Top Seafood Restaurants | LA Eats

If there is one thing, you can find a gourmet selection of in California, its Seafood! With so many seafood restaurants around town, your options are endless for something from the sea. Rather than feel like you’re stranded in an ocean of possibilities, we have you covered. Check out our list of the top seafood restaurants in your area.

Los Angeles

Orsa & Winston

Location: 122 W 4th St, Los Angeles

Another Michelin star selection, Orsa & Winston, brings decadent seafood to Downtown L.A. in an artsy fashion. The food itself is Asian-Italian, inspired with a prix-fixe that comprises seasonal ingredients infused with wide-ranging flavors. While the menu can only be seen once in the restaurant, diners can expect options like the soft-shell crab tempura and the Satsuki porridge. Likewise, among offering perfectly delicious options, one can also expect a perfectly designed ambiance. 

Providence

Location: 5955 Melrose Ave. | Los Angeles

A two-star Michelin restaurant from Chef Michael Cimarusti, Providence, offers award-winning food in a sophisticated atmosphere. For seafood restaurants, Providence has been serving up unique options for over a decade. The restaurant offers three tasting menu options with the freshest and most sustainable ingredients available. While most menu options are from the sea, patrons can also enjoy choices like the Liberty Farms Duck or A5 Wagyu Beef. This restaurant is a splurge, so be prepared to dish out between $225 to $475 per person, depending on wine pairing. 

Westside and Beach Communities

Dudley Market

Location: 9 Dudley Ave, Venice

Enjoy a seafood and wine-focused menu that caters to the beachside neighborhood at Dudley Market. The menu is reasonably priced and expansive (there’s meat and veggies too). From their wide-ranging wine menu to the freshest fish and seafood you’ll ever taste, consider this Venice spot a must. 

Blue Plate Oysterette

Location: 1355 Ocean Ave. | Santa Monica

Enjoy all that old-school East Coast clam bars and seafood shacks have to offer in an upgraded setting with a fresh take on coastal fare. Blue Plate Oysterette serves as an excellent choice for seafood restaurants in Santa Monica. The dining establishment offers crab cakes, lobster rolls, and fish and chips for classic options. Those seeking more L.A. style options can dig into selections like fish taxes, lobster mac and cheese, and more. 

 

Fishing with Dynamite

Location: 1148 Manhattan Ave. | Manhattan Beach

When it comes to seafood restaurants in the city, Fishing with Dynamite takes you away from the hustle and bustle to a more casual affair. The food remains on par with other fine-dining seafood establishments, but the setting bodes casual comfort. This neighborhood joint is located in Manhattan Beach, offering delicious seafood options like the Peruvian Scallop and yellowtail tacos. However you choose to dine from the sea, you’ll feel right at home here. 

San Fernando Valley

EMC Seafood & Raw Bar

Location: 6252 Topanga Canyon Blvd #1695 | Woodland Hills

EMC Seafood & Raw Bar has found a way to perfectly combine casual comfort food options with sophisticated fine dining selections, and we are HERE for it! As another one of the best seafood restaurants in town, it should come as no surprise that we have no menu dislikes. You will be satisfied with their array of options, from the fried fish tenders and garlic noodles to the toto tuna tartare with quail eggs. 

Shin Sushi

Location: 16573 Ventura Blvd. | Encino

We may be on a Michelin-rated kick this week, as Shin Sushi lands on our list of best seafood restaurants with one-star from the acclaimed publication. Looks may deceive those who venture to the shopping center Shin Sushi resides in, but true patrons know the establishment to be a great find. From the mastery of Taketoshi Azumi comes a menu worth indulging in. Enjoy fresh and delicious options like the Hokkaido uni or scallops and fatty tuna. All of which are sure to delight even the most discerning seafood connoisseurs.

Tel Aviv Fish Grill

Location: 19014 Ventura Blvd, Tarzana

For those seeking a fantastic seafood experience in Tarzana, look no further than Tel Aviv Fish Grill. Not only does Tel Aviv Fish Grill serve as one of the best seafood restaurants in town, but it also serves as one of the few with an array of kosher and gluten-free options. “With an extensive fish menu, breakfast options, and authentic salads, everyone will have something to smile about at Tel Aviv Fish Grill.”

Conejo Valley

Lure Fish House

Location: 30970 Russell Ranch Rd. | Westlake Village

A family-owned establishment, Lure Fish House serves up delicious seafood in a California coast setting. The seasonally sourced menu offers selections like mussels, ceviches, fish tacos, lobster, organic salads, and simply seared fish. With satisfying menu options like the Miso Glazed Sea Bass Bowl and Branzino, you can’t go wrong with their well-rounded menu.

Broad Street Oyster Company

Location: 23359 CA-1 #3874A | Malibu

It’s safe to say that Malibu has no shortage of excellent seafood restaurants, with Broad Street Oyster Company being at the forefront of the list. What started as a pop-up took shape as a welcoming seafood staple in the neighborhood. Enjoy a stunning view of the Malibu Lagoon while you dig into tasty options like the Sea Bream Fillet and the Eggplant Carpaccio.

Mastro’s Steakhouse

Location: 2087 Thousand Oaks Blvd. | Thousand Oaks

What seafood list would be complete without Mastro’s? While most may mistake this for being just a steakhouse, Matro’s offers some of the best seafood in town. From their famed seafood tower to their Blackened Swordfish, the options are endless. Treat yourself to an evening at Mastro’s; you’ll be glad you did!

Experience Wine Country in the Fall | Out & About

As summer gives way to the crisp, golden hues of fall, Southern California’s wine country becomes a picturesque escape. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking for a luxurious getaway, Temecula Valley and Malibu’s scenic vineyards provide the perfect backdrop for a fall retreat. With cooler temperatures, stunning views, and a variety of seasonal wine events, this is the ideal time to explore these vineyards in style.

Fall in Temecula Valley: A Wine Lover’s Dream

Nestled just 90 minutes from Los Angeles, Temecula Valley is the heart of Southern California’s wine country. As autumn arrives, the region’s vineyards become alive with rich harvest colors, and the excitement of the wine-making process is palpable. This is the season of the grape harvest, where wine tours are infused with an energy and vibrancy that’s unique to this time of year.

Many wineries in Temecula offer fall-specific experiences, such as grape stomping events, harvest festivals, and special wine releases. Wilson Creek Winery, known for its scenic beauty and award-winning sparkling wines, hosts various harvest celebrations, offering visitors a chance to get hands-on with the winemaking process. For a more private experience, you can book a behind-the-scenes tour, where you’ll learn about the harvest and production while sipping on a curated selection of wines.

Autumn also brings out the best in Temecula’s vineyard views. The rolling hills become a tapestry of golden leaves and lush vines, making it the perfect setting for a romantic getaway or a relaxing day trip. Many wineries offer al fresco dining experiences where you can enjoy a seasonal menu paired with wines while taking in the panoramic views. Spots like Callaway Vineyard & Winery and South Coast Winery are known for their excellent food and vineyard vistas, providing a luxurious day out in the heart of wine country.

Malibu: Coastal Wine Country with a View

For those who prefer their wine with a side of ocean breeze, Malibu offers a wine country experience unlike any other. Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, Malibu’s coastal vineyards are ideal for fall exploration. With cooler coastal temperatures and spectacular sunset views, Malibu becomes an intimate escape during the autumn months.

Malibu Wines, with its sprawling grounds and relaxed atmosphere, is the perfect spot for a wine tasting experience with a coastal twist. The vineyard offers seasonal tastings of its local varietals, allowing guests to enjoy crisp Chardonnay or bold Cabernet Sauvignon while lounging in the vineyard’s open-air spaces. For those looking for something truly memorable, Malibu Wine Safari offers guided tours through the vineyard, complete with wine tastings and up-close encounters with exotic animals like zebras and giraffes.

Seasonal Wine Events: The Perfect Excuse for a Fall Getaway

Both Temecula and Malibu host a variety of fall wine events that attract connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Temecula’s annual Harvest Wine Celebration, held in November, is a must-visit, offering a weekend of tastings across the region’s top wineries. Meanwhile, Malibu hosts wine-pairing dinners and harvest celebrations at local vineyards, giving guests a chance to indulge in seasonal flavors while soaking in the autumn ambiance.

Whether you choose to explore the inland beauty of Temecula or the coastal charm of Malibu, Southern California’s wine country offers a fall experience that’s both luxurious and unforgettable. With its stunning vineyard views, seasonal events, and unparalleled wine tasting opportunities, there’s no better time to experience the magic of these world-class regions.

Summer to Fall Home Décor | Home Tips

As the warm days of summer begin to fade and the crisp air of fall rolls in, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home’s décor to reflect the changing season. Transitioning your space from the light, breezy feel of summer to the cozy, rich ambiance of fall doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few simple yet luxurious touches, you can create a space that’s inviting, comfortable, and sophisticated. Here’s how to elevate your home for the fall season with style.

1. Incorporate Rich Textures for Added Warmth

One of the easiest ways to shift your home from summer to fall is by introducing rich, luxurious textures. Swap out lightweight summer fabrics like linen and cotton for warmer, cozier options like velvet, wool, and faux fur. These materials not only add warmth but also create a more luxurious and inviting atmosphere.

For instance, consider layering your living room with plush throw blankets and decorative pillows made from sumptuous fabrics. Velvet pillows in jewel tones like deep emerald, sapphire, or burgundy instantly elevate the space and add a touch of elegance. Faux fur throws draped over a sofa or accent chair create a cozy, stylish vibe, perfect for the cooler months ahead.

2. Switch to a Fall-Inspired Color Palette

Color plays a huge role in setting the tone for the season, and fall is the perfect time to introduce deeper, richer hues into your home. While summer calls for light, airy colors like whites, pastels, and coastal blues, fall is all about earthy tones and bold, dramatic shades.

To create a seamless transition, start by incorporating fall-inspired colors into your décor. Opt for warm hues like burnt orange, deep reds, mustard yellows, and forest greens. These colors evoke the natural beauty of autumn and can be introduced through accent pieces like rugs, curtains, and wall art. For a subtle yet impactful change, consider swapping out your lighter summer artwork for pieces that feature fall landscapes or abstract designs in rich, autumnal tones.

3. Add Elegant Seasonal Accents

Elegant seasonal accents can take your home décor to the next level and make the transition from summer to fall feel effortless. Decorative accessories such as candles, vases, and centerpieces can reflect the season’s charm and add a touch of luxury.

For example, fill large glass vases with dried wheat stalks or pampas grass for a natural, fall-inspired look. Consider swapping out summery florals for arrangements featuring fall foliage, such as eucalyptus, branches with berries, or even dried hydrangeas. To enhance the cozy ambiance, place scented candles in fragrances like cinnamon, sandalwood, or pumpkin spice throughout your home. Not only do they create a warm glow, but they also fill your space with the scents of the season.

4. Update Your Entryway

Your entryway is the first impression of your home, so it’s a great place to incorporate fall décor. Swap out your summer wreath for one that features fall foliage, pinecones, or dried flowers. Consider adding a statement piece like a large, decorative pumpkin or an elegant fall-themed lantern by your front door to welcome guests with seasonal charm.

Conclusion

Transitioning your home décor from summer to fall doesn’t have to mean a complete overhaul. By adding rich textures, switching to a fall-inspired color palette, and incorporating elegant seasonal accents, you can create a luxurious and inviting space that reflects the beauty of the season. Embrace the warmth and sophistication of fall in every room of your home for a stylish, seasonal refresh.

Economic Update | Week Ending September 14, 2024

Economic data this week – The August reading of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed that consumer inflation continues to moderate. Consumer prices rose 2.5% from one year ago, down 0.4% from July’s annual level of 2.9%, and the lowest annual rate since February 2021. The CPI rate peaked at 9.1% in June of 2022 and has worked its way down gradually. The Produce Price Index (PPI) was also released this week. It showed that wholesale rose just 1.7% from last August. Unfortunately, core PPI, which excludes food and energy moved up 3.3% from one year ago. The difference between the PPI and the Core PPI was mainly attributed to lower energy costs as oil prices have dropped significantly from one year ago. Next week the Fed will drop their key interest rates for the first time in four years. It is widely believed that it will be a .25% drop, as a .5% drop so close to the election could have political implications.

The graph below shows the movement of the Consumer Price Index from 2021 to the present.

Image

Stock markets – Stock market indexes made up last week’s losses to end the week up sharply. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 41,393.78, up 2.6% from 40,345.42 last week. It is up 9.8% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,626.78, up 4% from 5,408.42 last week. The S&P is up 18% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 17,683.98, up 5.9% from 16,690.83 last week. It is up 17.8% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields dropped sharply this week – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 3.66%, down from 3.72% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 3.98%, down from 4.03% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of September 12, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.2%, down from 6.35% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.27%, down from 5.47% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year

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Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

Have a great weekend!