7 Cottagecore Tips for the New Year: Embrace a Simpler Life in 2025
As the New Year stretches before us like a blank canvas, there’s something magical about the opportunity to reset and refocus. For me, the start of the year always feels like stepping into a quiet, misty forest—a time to pause, listen, and set intentions rooted in simplicity and joy. This year, why not let Cottagecore values inspire your resolutions? From nurturing a garden to embracing homemade meals, here are some of my favorite ways to cultivate a slower, simpler life.
1. Grow Something, Big or Small
Gardening is one of the purest joys of Cottagecore living. Whether you’re an expert or a novice, embracing Cottagecore gardening tips can help you cultivate beauty and serenity in your own space. Whether you have a sprawling yard or just a sunny windowsill, tending to plants reminds us to slow down and connect with the rhythms of nature. My favorite herb to grow is basil—it’s easy, fragrant, and versatile. Think of your garden as a metaphor for your goals: start with seeds of intention, nurture them with care, and watch them grow.
Tip: If you’re new to gardening, begin with a small herb garden. Basil, rosemary, and thyme are forgiving and rewarding. Plus, there’s nothing like the satisfaction of snipping fresh herbs for your cooking. My favorite herb to start with is basil! I use it in everything and it is perfect for a beginner gardener.
2024 potted basil! We both, froze and dried leaves out to preserve them for winter. It produced so much!
2. Create Instead of Consume
One of the best parts of embracing Cottagecore is rediscovering the joy of handmade crafts. When I first learned to sew from my mother and grandmother, I didn’t just make clothes—I made memories. Whether it’s sewing, knitting, or even baking bread, creating something with your hands reminds us that life doesn’t have to be store-bought to be beautiful.
Tip: Start with a project that excites you. Maybe it’s a patchwork quilt or a batch of lavender soap. Use this as a time to unplug, play some soft music, and lose yourself in the process.
3. Simplify Your Space
Our homes should be sanctuaries, not storage units. Embrace this idea by incorporating decluttering tips and Cottagecore home organization techniques to create a serene, purposeful space. This year, I’m channeling French Country and Cottagecore elegance into decluttering my space. The goal isn’t to strip everything away but to keep what sparks joy and serves a purpose. Think of your home as a cozy cottage in the woods: warm, inviting, and free from unnecessary clutter.
Tip: Start with one corner of a room. Ask yourself if each item brings beauty or utility to your space. If it doesn’t, consider donating or reselling it. Sustainable decluttering is Cottagecore at its finest.
4. Cook Seasonally and Sustainably
There’s something enchanting about eating with the seasons. Incorporating seasonal Cottagecore recipes into your routine adds a layer of magic, connecting you to nature's rhythm and offering a creative culinary adventure. A pot of hearty winter stew made with root vegetables or a loaf of crusty homemade bread makes every meal feel like a celebration of the moment. Seasonal cooking not only reduces waste but also encourages us to savor what’s available right now.
Tip: Visit your local farmers' market for inspiration. Choose one or two seasonal ingredients and build your meals around them. And don’t forget to preserve—jams, pickles, and sauces can capture the essence of a season and carry it with you.
Have fun and play with your food! My Salami rose, that took way too long to figure out how to make,
5. Spend More Time Outdoors
Sometimes, the simplest way to embrace Cottagecore is to step outside. Whether you’re strolling through a park, sipping tea on your porch, or gathering wildflowers, nature has a way of grounding us and offering clarity.
Tip: Schedule regular outdoor time into your week. Think of it as a date with yourself. Bring along a sketchpad, journal, or just your thoughts. Let the fresh air work its magic.
6. Make Time for Traditions with a Twist
One thing I’ve learned is that traditions don’t have to stay static. I love adding pastels to my Thanksgiving decor or painting pumpkins with my kids instead of carving them. This year, consider how you can reinvent old traditions or create new ones that align with your Cottagecore vision.
Tip: Choose one tradition to revisit. Maybe it’s an afternoon tea party with friends or a homemade gift exchange. Add your personal flair and enjoy the nostalgia with a fresh perspective.
One of our traditions each one of our kids get s a certain wrapping paper but they don’t know which one is theirs. We let them guess which one is theirs until Christmas. This year we shook things up and instead of their own wrapping paper, each one gets their own bow design. Shhh… Don’t tell, they are still guessing who’s wrapping paper is whos!
7. Journal Your Journey
Life can pass by in a blur, especially when we’re caught up in daily routines. A journal is like a snapshot of your inner world, capturing the little moments and reflections that make up your year. Explore Cottagecore journaling ideas to document your journey, from garden milestones to cherished seasonal traditions. You could write about the first tomato in your garden, a favorite meal you cooked, or a quiet walk that stayed with you.
Tip: Dedicate a few minutes at the end of each day to jot down a thought or memory. Over time, your journal will become a treasure trove of Cottagecore inspiration.
As we step into this new year, let’s embrace the beauty of slowing down, the joy of intentional living, and the magic of creating. Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful; it just needs to be lived with heart. Here’s to a year filled with Cottagecore charm, one simple, intentional moment at a time.
Brooke
Hello Gorgeous Threads
More Cottagecore Inspo
I’m Brooke, a homeschool mom with a deep love for French Country elegance and a growing passion for Cottagecore. My journey began with a fascination for the timeless charm of French Country style, and as I embraced the beauty of simplicity, I naturally gravitated towards Cottagecore. Over time, I’ve woven these two aesthetics together, creating a cozy, sustainable home that reflects the best of both worlds. Thank you for joining me on this journey—I can’t wait to share more about the enchanting blend of French Country and Cottagecore living with you!
