Fall is coming faster than you can say "pumpkin". And your branding?
Hey you,
Yes, I know - 30 degrees outside, iced flat white (or this summer rather matcha with a bit of fruit on the bottom of the cup) in my hand, content still full of beach, festival and sunscreen.
But here comes the truth that nobody wants to hear:
If you're not thinking about fall in August, you're missing out on the best opportunities.
Because print needs lead time.
Campaigns need preparation.
And your brand? It needs the fall move NOW, not in October.
And now comes the problem:
If you wait, you'll get the same old fall stuff.
Orange accents, discount code "GOLDENEROKT25", Pumpkin Spice Latte vibe for a brand that actually has nothing to do with PSL.
It doesn't have to be. If you start on time and are already thinking about the next season.
What looks smarter?
✅ Autumn as a feeling - not as decoration.
Show what your brand identity makes you feel in fall - not what the calendar says.
👉 Example: This Place (CBD brand)
In spring: "Inner Balance"
In fall: "Letting Go"
No pumpkin far and wide. But the message is there.
✅ Packaging that feels like fall - but doesn't look like a craft session.
👉 Example: MUTI Skincare
The Munich-based brand shows that "seasonal" can also be subtle and smart.
No pumpkins, no orange leaves - just bundles in understated, earthy tones. Matching key visuals, subdued color moods, minimalist packaging.
Autumn as a feeling, not a craft trend.
And the best thing is that the products not only feel like "cozy vibes", they also perform - and that's exactly what the design radiates.
✅ Autumn vibes that make sense digitally.
Your content shouldn't look like someone picked it at the garden center.
👉 Think in real moments. Walks, mood, light, real conversations.
TikTok & Reels work particularly well in the fall because it gets emotional. Take advantage of that.
And yes, Starbucks has shown the way.
The Pumpkin Spice Latte was never just a drink. It was a feeling. A movement.
They didn't just put pumpkin on the cup - they staged an entire season.
The same drink every year, but people are queuing up again.
Because the design is right. Because the content is right. Because you're almost waiting for it.
PSL is not a product - it's a "Summer is over - and okay, fall is super cozy. Actually nice too!".
And according to CNN, Starbucks has made over 2 billion dollars in sales with PSL alone since its launch.
No discount. No blatant packaging. Just consistency, timing - and strong brand management.
And if you fancy something wild:
🧪 Limited edition for fall only.
But not as a discount tactic.
✅ Special packaging with a message.
✅ Mini collection with a twist.
✅ QR code on the back, which leads to a Cozy fall story.
If you are a brand that connects - then now.
Conclusion:
🌞 Summer is still going on.
🍂 Autumn is for brand loyalty.
But only if you plan it now.
So please: don't stumble into October in flip-flops.
Now is the time to prepare the things that will work in the fall.
And hey (even if this really isn't a sales NL) - if you need help with packaging, messaging or just a cool mood board: get in touch. 💌 chantalle@boredbrands.studio
Until then: stay smart, stay early, stay you.
Chantalle
