She calls herself a cottage fairy. Some of her followers describe her as an embodied angel.
Whether these descriptors are mere metaphors or literally true, there is no doubt there is something special about young Paola Merrill that is at the heart of what attracts 1.5 million YouTube subscribers to her Cottage Fairy podcast.
Merrill often shares experiences from her life in a rural cottage, surrounded by nature. Her philosophy revolves around finding beauty in simplicity, the importance of connecting with nature, and leading a life that is slow, intentional, and mindful. Some have labeled these values “cottagecore.”
The cottagecore aesthetic has spread like wildfire on social media, an indication that there is a deep yearning among many for a simpler lifestyle, in contrast to the hustle and bustle of modern society.
Merrill’s influence extends beyond YouTube, with an Instagram presence where she shares similar content. Her philosophy is grounded in nature preservation, sustainable living, and the beauty of rural life.
She addresses common misconceptions about rural living, such as its perceived expense and inaccessibility, by sharing her own experiences of embracing a frugal lifestyle. Her content often includes preparations for different seasons, like the challenges of winter in a rural setting.
At her core, Merrill is a creator of beauty and harmony. She’s also an accomplished painter who excels in capturing the serene beauty of nature and rural life in her artwork. Her pieces often feature enchanting landscapes and whimsical details, painted with a delicate touch that reflects her deep appreciation for the natural world.
She is known for her watercolor paintings, which often feature ethereal landscapes that reflect the serenity of nature and rural life.
Alongside watercolors, she also explores other mediums like pencil sketches, ink illustrations, and occasionally, digital art. Her choice of mediums adds a diverse range of textures and tones to her work that enhance the enchanting themes she loves to portray.
What is cottagecore?
Cottagecore is an aesthetic and design style that encourages adopting a simpler and more bucolic lifestyle. Its design characteristics include vintage and handcrafted items such as clothing, candles, furniture, and needlework.
Cottagecore also encourages learning homesteading skills that promote self-sufficiency, including vegetable gardening, baking from scratch, and raising backyard chickens.
YouTube podcaster Nadiiife explains further: “It’s about escaping stress, finding peace and enjoying the simple things in life,” she says. “Cottagecore is about bringing mindfulness in our everyday lives. That means connecting with the present moment and feeling more grounded. This includes being thankful for what we have.”
Harmony as a goal
Merrill often weaves humble wisdom teachings into her content, such as this passage from The Cottage Fairy Companion, her 2022 book:
“I encourage you to consider the goal of ‘harmony’ when transforming aspects of your life. Maybe the goal doesn’t need to be eliminating anything and everything in your life that causes stress or discomfort. This is partly because—as far as I know—that is an impossible task that will leave you frustrated and exhausted. Instead, consider how your habits, routines, and relationships could be improved to enhance the simple joys of daily life. We cannot escape complicated and hectic moments, but we can learn to understand them better.”
The impact of Merrill’s work is evident in the feedback from her audience. Viewers from diverse locations find a connection with her content. They express how it inspires them to appreciate the beauty in their own surroundings, regardless of where they live.
Merrill’s lifestyle choices resonate with many who seek peace and wisdom through simplicity, which can include a minimalist lifestyle that focuses on eliminating excess to reduce clutter and distractions, both materially and mentally. Her influence and following are a testament to the growing appeal of a lifestyle focused on the essentials of life and the beauty of the natural world.
The beauty of simplicity
Through her content, she inspires others to appreciate and seek out the beauty in simplicity and to embrace a more peaceful, slower-paced lifestyle. There’s a therapeutic aspect to her content as well, as many find solace and tranquility in her depiction of a serene, uncomplicated life.
This self-described “cottage fairy” has become a significant figure for people looking for inspiration and guidance in embracing a simpler, more nature-oriented lifestyle. Her influence extends beyond mere entertainment: It touches on aspects of mental well-being, environmental consciousness, and personal fulfillment.
“We’re intrinsically connected to the world around us, but we also have the potential to develop a rich interior life, and it can carry us through a lot,” she reminds us.
“One day I will have to say goodbye to my pets and loved ones, and the only way I know how to thrive despite these inevitabilities is to be in touch with my soul. It’s the light I will carry till my last moment, so I will tend it with great care, knowing it means everything.”
Leave a Reply