I live by the oft-quoted words of Anne Shirley. “I’m so glad we live in a world where we have October.” Having grown up in New England, there is no better place to cement the truth behind this gratitude. The air becomes crisper and the natural world glows in a variety of fall colors. Saturdays are spent hiking and Sundays are spent baking your favorite comfort foods (all the while relaxing with the best books of the season). This is why October has long been my favorite month, but with warmer horizons and the ever-looming reality of climate change, a new month has taken the top spot. Then do you have a long list of things to do in November to help you get into it too?
30 things to do in November
The other day, I joked with a friend that I won’t have any aesthetics until fall. In the summer, I drop all attempts to succeed in fashion and embrace the beauty that is always present in swimwear.
But thankfully, fall (November, to be specific) means we can finally crawl into our coziest blankets and dive deeper into hobbies that previously were only possible with the air conditioning on. So November is perfect as sweaters, slippers, soups and stews make a comeback. And its perfection creates a long list of things to do in November before my favorite month ends.
All of the above reasons (and the countdown to Thanksgiving) have reminded me that I have a lot to be grateful for this month. November is the ideal time to crack open a new cookbook (or two), embrace your crafty side, and joyfully prepare for the wonderful winter wonderland weeks ahead. So, before you get swept up in the busyness of the end of the year, let’s take a look at the ultimate list of things to do in November.
P.S. I made a magazine! Get the Holiday issue of Camille Styles EDIT now.
November 1st to November 9th
1. Create a monthly Pinterest board. Kick back on your couch, put on a show from the comfort of your home, and enjoy a cup of tea while browsing for inspiration. Ideas for clothing, cooking, interior design, etc. You will feel energy and inspiration to tackle the month.
2. Bake something cozy in the oven. November marks the beginning of many baking marathons to come. These pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are a seasonal favorite, and this pumpkin loaf with lighter-than-air cream cheese frosting is a dreamy dessert. If your pumpkin cravings are gone, why not start making holiday cookies early?
3. Prepare for daylight saving time. If you live in a state that observes daylight saving time, be sure to mark your calendars this Sunday, November 3rd. Dark days remind us to embrace the comfort of being indoors. If you work from home or in a flexible office environment, try to take regular walks throughout the day to get some fresh air. Be sure to check out our tips for treating seasonal affective disorder.
4. Learn new techniques. Try knitting or sewing, or sign up for a pottery class. (Or join me and learn how to make the most beautiful pie.)
5. Order holiday cards. It’s never too early to start doing these things. By prioritizing early in the month, you can ensure that writing and sending becomes fun.
6. DIY your own holiday decorations. These Scandinavian Dala Horse gift toppers are a minimalist’s dream. I have given away many of these clay mushroom ornaments and the recipients are always impressed. Oh, and you’ll never guess what these lovely star decorations are made of (hint: make sure you recycle).
7. Shop Target’s holiday collection. I love being crafty, but sometimes I get giddy when I see Christmas decorations at my local Target. I love mini bowls for snacks, and how cool is this wreath?
8. I hope you have the most cozy weekend ever. This quiz from Food52 will walk you through every step to have a great weekend. Whether you’re spending a weekend indoors with your family, planning an adventure with your partner, or just want to kick back and relax with your bestie (yourself), this is your ultimate guide.
9. Learn how to wrap the perfect present. As you start preparing your holiday gifts, check out our guide for tips on wrapping the perfect presents. If you’re looking for more inspiration, we’ve got you covered.
November 10th to November 16th
10. Host football on Sunday. There’s something so comforting about getting together with friends to watch a Sunday game. Make chili in a large pot and ask guests to bring snacks. It’s a very modest gathering.
11. Develop your farmer skills. From preserving food to making natural cleaning products to making your own dried herbs, there’s a lot of creativity in the DIY way of life. If you want reliable information all in one place, Julia Watkins’ book Simply Living Well is a great resource. Alternatively, if you would like to take classes, be sure to check out Traditional Skills Schools.
12. Write a thank you card. Share them with all the people in your life who make your days a little lighter, easier, and brighter. Just writing this warms my heart and makes me feel comfortable.
13. Make a stew pot. They are more cozy than candles and are very easy to make. I love the combination of sliced apples, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and a little maple syrup.
14. Prepare for holiday guests. We knew this moment would come, so we did the work ahead of time asking some of our favorite designers how they create comfortable, inviting rooms. From what to pack to ideas for designing a welcoming environment, prepare for a stress-free visit.
15. Get back into the habit of gratitude. This year, Thanksgiving is about more than just giving thanks. This month, develop the art of practicing gratitude every day with these simple habits that can have a big impact on your life.
16. Watch all of fall’s best movies. Comfortable, cozy and totally nostalgic.
November 17th to 23rd
17. Make pasta from scratch. It’s much easier than it looks. Camille’s sweet potato gnocchi are a great place to start.
18. Prepare the perfect Thanksgiving table. Whatever your mood, we’ve got all the inspiration you need for your holiday table. We’re sure your guests will enjoy more than just pie this year.
19. Read the best books of fall. From BookTok to the best new releases to the ultimate fall reading list, we’ve got you covered.
20. Help your children practice a morning routine. Is your house busy in the morning too? got it. Learn how to have a more mindful morning with your kids. Trust me, they will love these ideas.
21. Create a cycle sync planner. Our menstrual cycles change our mood throughout the month. Pair your energy levels with regulated activities and a supportive diet to stay in top shape. Start your journey with this cycle sync planner.
22. Hold a girls’ night out. they are back. And we’ve got all the girls’ night out ideas you need to make sure your night isn’t just another wine night.
23. Host a Friendsgiving. Keep it casual and calm. Go potluck style and bring your favorite dishes for the holidays. It’s so much fun learning about everyone’s unique traditions.
November 24th to 30th
24. Watch Gilmore Girls all the way through. It’s now or never, folks!
25. Become someone who exercises in the morning. It helps reset your circadian rhythm and boost your energy throughout the day. Start your favorite YouTube workouts customized to your AM movements.
26. Sharpen your conversation skills. If you’re attending a large Thanksgiving gathering, this information couldn’t be more timely. Click here for guidance on how to graciously approach tough conversations during the holidays.
27. Curate the perfect charcuterie board. They are the easiest way to feed (and wow) a crowd. Try out our favorite fall charcuterie boards. Please invite everyone.
28. Celebrate Thanksgiving! Whether you’re relaxing with family, friends, your partner, or alone, enjoy the magic of this day dedicated to gratitude, connection, and love.
29. Drink coffee outside in a cozy blanket. I love feeling the refreshing cold of November while warming my body with a mug. It’s a great way to get a little sunshine first. Carrying a book with you will make you feel even more comfortable.
30. Shop local. Once you start making your holiday list, try to shop at local stores throughout the month.
