October is my warm-up for the holiday season — the month when everything shifts toward cozy, festive plans and preparation. I use this time to get organized, clear out clutter, stock up on essentials, and map out the tasks I actually need to get done before the holidays arrive. Here are my favorite things for October that help me enjoy the season and stay prepared.
1. Essential oil rollers.
I keep a set at home and another in my bag. They’re priceless for quick relief on the go. “Breathe Again” is my go-to for sinus pressure — a small roll under the eyes and along the jawline eases discomfort. It’s peppermint-forward, so be careful near the eyes and apply lightly on the forehead and cheekbones. “Deep Relief” is my reliable fix for headaches; it’s potent and soothing when I need it most.
2. Starbucks fall mug (2018).
I collect seasonal mugs and was determined to fill one last spot on my fall mug shelf. This mug captures everything fall — pumpkins, flannel, boots, scarves, cozy weather — and it felt essential for my collection.
3. Sharpie Gel highlighters.
These gel highlighters glide smoothly without bleeding through paper. They’ve lasted me years and still perform, which is a major plus as someone who uses highlighters frequently. I love the non-bleed formula and would welcome more color options.
4. Bath & Body Works candles.
I switched to Bath & Body Works last year and appreciate how strong their scents are. While they may not burn as many hours as some other brands, a short burn often fills the room with fragrance. I watch for sales rather than buying at full price — they frequently discount their candles, which makes stocking up easier.
My fall candle choices depend on mood: clean, outdoorsy scents like Sweater Weather, Flannel, Autumn Woods, and Crisp Fall Morning for busy days; sweeter, baked scents like Pumpkin Pie and Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin for cozy evenings.
5. L.L.Bean bedding.
We recently replaced an old down comforter and added new flannel sheets from L.L.Bean. Their flannel holds up well, softens with each wash, and resists pilling. After finding a site-wide sale, I updated our bedding with a new comforter, fitted sheet, cover, and pillowcases — choosing sage green and red ticking stripe options to match our cozy fall aesthetic. With cooler weather arriving, the new bedding is perfectly timed.
That’s my October roundup — small comforts and practical items that make the season more enjoyable and keep me organized for the months ahead.