Homes in the northern U.S. are treated to a measure of effortless outdoor decorating for fall: Nature does most of the work by turning the trees a vivid palette of reds, oranges and golds. Add a pumpkin or two on the doorstep and the look is complete.
In the rest of the country — including the Mississippi Gulf Coast — it takes a bit more creativity to add the season’s colors and textures to the exterior of a home. Southern California designer Betsy Burnham says poorly done fall decorating can look out of place in warmer climates. And as Halloween decorating has become increasingly popular, many homeowners aiming for a festive fall look go overboard with big decorations and harsh shades of orange.