I’ve always been smitten by front porches and the images they conjure–sipping sweet tea, rocking the evening away listening to music and watching fireflies. It’s as if porches say “Sit. Stay a while. We have time.”
I have absolutely no idea when front porches showed up on my radar. Growing up in Southern California meant a concrete slab in front of the door with just enough room to hold the Easter Bunny’s baskets each spring. But somehow in college I was compelled to write my honors thesis on how front porches are used as plot devices in literature, and when I first came to Georgia I was 100% charmed, staring and drinking in all the porches as we drove by.
Obviously I had to buy a house with front porch! She’s small but mighty, mixing a sassy front door with classic rocking chairs via a local antique shop that was tucked away in a 100 year old house. I’ve learned the secrets to capsule my way into my very own southern front porch and here are five easy steps you can take to bring a little of that southern front porch life to your home too!
The Front Door
Paint and updated hardware go a long way to an inviting front door! I love green as it acts like a neutral during the holidays against bright pops of red, during the spring alongside pretty shades of pink, the summer with the pale purple of lavender and the fall with splashy orange and yellow mums.
A Cute Door Mat
There are so many fun outdoor mats out there that they are easy to switch up. I find a quick sweep and swap of the mat brings new energy to the front porch, so I have a few different seasonal mats that I swap out when things need a refresh.
Paired Plantings
I love the pots that show up in garden centers in the spring and summer. I’m lazy, so I gravitate towards pots that are already planted. When you buy two, it looks balanced and intentional. I set one on either side of the front door and then pick up ferns or ivy as hanging baskets that will last through fall.
A Place to Sit
Whether rockers, a swing, or even a cute little bench, nothing is more inviting than a spot to sit for a spell. I’m still looking for the “perfect” pillows and lightweight throws, but until then we have a comfortable spot to rock away the evenings listening to Sam Cooke.
A Place to Rest a Drink
A small table, stool, or bench is the perfect spot to set a cold drink. Cold drinks are mandatory for front porch sittin’! If you need ideas, try Mama Lee’s Sweet Tea or a Georgia Peach Cocktail and sip your way into the slow, lazy days of a southern summer.