Mood boards aren’t just for designers or decorators. They’re a surprisingly powerful tool
for anyone who wants to be more intentional about the season ahead.
And right now—before summer gets too busy—is the perfect time to pause and ask: What kind of summer do I want this year?
Do you want your summer to feel peaceful? Productive? Playful? Stylish? Maybe a little of each?
A mood board can help you set the tone, visualize your goals, and feel
inspired—without a single TO DO list in sight.
Here’s how to make one, whether you’re feeling crafty or prefer to go digital:
1. Choose Your Summer
Theme
Before you start collecting images, think about how you want your summer to feel. Not what you think it should be—what you want it to be. Use a word or phrase to guide your mood board. Try: “A Slower Summer,” “Sunshine & Simplicity,” “Organized & Energized,” or “Reclaiming My Time.”
2. Gather Your SuppliesFor a paper version, grab a few old magazines, glue, scissors, and a piece of poster board. Alternately, use a blank cork board.
For digital, Pinterest works great, or Canva if you want to create a collage you can print or save as your screensaver. 3. Clip, Pin, or Save What Speaks to You
Look for anything that represents the summer you’re dreaming
about:
– A photo of an Adirondack chair = more time to relax.
– A quote that reminds you to say no = better boundaries.
– A salad bowl or fruit stand = healthier, lighter meals.
– A person walking in sneakers = daily evening strolls.
You can also jot down words, paste ticket stubs, or add your own photos from past summers. Even scents or sounds can be part of the mood—think lavender sachets or a song you plan to listen to on repeat.
4. Display It Where You’ll See It
Tape it inside a cabinet, hang it near your desk, or set it as your phone or desktop wallpaper. This is your gentle reminder that you get to choose what this season feels like.
5. Let It Inspire Your Next Step
You don’t need to check anything off or make a list (unless you want to). Just let your board nudge you toward little changes—like going to the farmer’s market, saying yes to an afternoon on the town, or leaving space in your schedule for something spontaneous.
Summer flies by. A mood board helps
you slow it down, tune in, and create a season that feels good from the inside out.
On another note...
