As a go-to source for design enthusiasts, the multifaceted Liz Marie Galvan wears many hats. The author of Liz Marie Blog plus a collection of books and the owner of White Cottage Farm—the 1800s farmhouse and farm she shares with her husband and their son in Grand Rapids, Michigan—also co-owns The Found Cottage, a retail store in nearby Hudsonville.

Galvan, who knows how to create a cozy home environment, describes her aesthetic as an “eclectic style of cottage core elements mixed with utilitarian and antique items found within farmhouse and French country.” Her enchanting seasonal creations evolve over time. “Design changes with us as we change and as trends change,” she says. “I love neutrals as a base palette to allow for seasonal elements or unique finds to take center stage. White and cream walls and furniture really allow antique tables, florals, and colors appropriate for each season to pop.”

For her, fall decor is all about texture and earthy tones. “We love finding every way possible to add texture,” says Galvan. “I design spaces generally trying to hit each of the five senses. Heavier throws, your favorite [fall] scents, baking some pies, adding more dried foliage, and swapping out some of the summer decor.”

Current pieces weave their way around her property, such as pumpkins and gourds that embellish tabletops and porch steps. Some looks are grand; others are subtle. “Look for other ways to add seasonal texture,” she says. “Sticks and stems are excellent, usually free items you can find around your home.” For unique finds, Galvan likes to shop the vendors at her store, The Found Cottage, as well as Zara Home, Pottery Barn, Terrain, local antique shops, and vintage markets.

She has a knack for pairing old and new pieces. “I have always been drawn to collections of all sizes, from a jar of buttons to massive apothecary cabinets,” says Galvan. “Antique shops are like magical portals that take your home’s vibe to a whole new level. You get to dive into a treasure hunt for unique gems that fit your space like a glove. . . . It’s an adventure that sparks lively conversations and lets you soak up history. . . . It’s like weaving the stories of the past right into the cozy fabric of your home, adding that timeless charm that makes it truly special.”

When asked what no fall table should be without, Galvan says texture takes the top spot. “Texture can be found from seasonal stems, leaves, foliage, to even table linens, plate chargers, and napkins. It can be on a grand scale or subtle little moments. I think every table needs a little texture to cozy it up for the cooler season.”

/ Written by Jeanine Matlow.

Photography by Anna Vanderberg Photography.

www.lizmarieblog.com / www.thefoundcottage.com
@lizmariegalvan / @whitecottagefarm / @thefoundcottage