A spooky season based on mystery and magic, Halloween is a charming time to celebrate your love.  Gothic elegance, vintage whimsy or dark romance…there are so many ways to embrace Halloween without being terrifyingly tacky.  Incorporating enchanting elements, moody colors, and edgy details into your Halloween wedding design can be an interesting and welcome change from the more traditional, light colored and fresh wedding decor.  If you are looking for a wedding that encompasses Halloween in a subtle and elegant way and gives your guests an unforgettable experience, read on for some tips on all things Halloween.  Whether it is rustic and elegant that you want, or you desire a dark and spooky approach, we are here to help you bring your wedding vision to life.

THEMES

Dark Romance

Gothic elegance is a theme that can be executed without being over the top and tacky.  Incorporating deep hues like burgundy, purple and black will give your wedding a moody feel.  Use these colors in your tablescapes, your floral design and your decor elements to give your wedding an exquisite but dark aura. Decorate with candelabras and vintage lace in a venue with arched windows, wrought iron details and a vintage atmosphere to really drive your gothic vision home.  Holding a vintage lantern with your bouquet or handing out masquerade masks to your guests can help carry the dark romance theme throughout.

Mystical Enchantment

Transform your guests to a world of whimsy and magic with an ethereal vibe that takes on Halloween in a more natural and organic way. Using elements from nature such as twisted branches, ghost pumpkins and moss are beautiful ways to bring mystique into your reception.  Pair all of these raw elements with dangling twinkle lights and you will surely enchant your guests in ways they could never have imagined.  Beautiful details like hanging lanterns, wood signs, white florals with a touch of some deep hued purples and blush accents, greenery and gourds are all ways to bring a beautiful twist to your Halloween inspired wedding.  Earthy tones for dresses and accessories will make an impact on the natural decor elements.

Mystery and Intrigue

If you are looking for a spooky feel without being gaudy, think about incorporating some of the spine chilling elements that make Halloween eerie.  An old mansion or castle would be the perfect spot to host your wedding turned haunted house. Use dark florals, cobwebs and eerie candlelight to set the tone. Ditch the tradition, and opt for dark linens, tableware, napkins, table cares and escort cards.  Pops of blush and gold will keep this theme elegant but not take away from the spooky nature you desire. Draped fabrics and chandeliers are the real showstoppers for a reception built on the idea of mystery and intrigue.  

DECOR ELEMENTS

Halloween Hues

When people think about Halloween, they immediately think about orange and black.  While those colors are synonymous with the spooky season, there are other Halloween hues that may be more wedding friendly. Different shades of purple can help shape this mystical holiday.  We suggest a wash of rich colored hues, such as purple, burgundy and black to pull off your Halloween themed wedding in an elegant and exquisite way. 

Thematic Cocktails

Douse your cocktail menu in some seasonal essence.  Whether you play on the flavors of the season or you add some dry ice to give it a spooky feel, Halloween inspired drinks can be a real show stopper.  Molecular cocktails, drinks that mimic potions and the use of dark and sinister liquids are exactly what your guests will expect at your spooky soiree. Think witches brew and love potion no. 9!

Integrate Seasonal Flavors

Think outside the box when it comes to your Halloween wedding menu. Integrate the flavors and colors of the season when it comes to your wedding cake as well as other desserts.  Beyond the sweets, think about the types of hearty foods that can be served during this “chilly” season.  Putting a spooky spin on some of your wedding food will be a real treat for your guests.

All Tricks, No Treats

Aside from all things spooky, candy is also synonymous with Halloween. Invite your guests to “trick or treat” at your reception with a candy buffet overflowing with all of your favorite sweets. Incorporate a candied/caramel apple bar with toppings for your guests to embrace the season. 

Spooky Decor Elements

Nothing says Halloween like some spooky decorations.  While we don’t suggest anything too off-putting to terrorize your guests, we love the idea of incorporating some elements that can drive your theme home in a classy and elegant way. Black candelabras, vintage lace, black taper candles and some skulls can help set the tone. Adding in some gilded accents and pampas grass with your moody florals can really give your Halloween wedding a chic and dignified twist.  Draping Spanish moss and lanterns from the ceiling can give your reception an otherworldly essence. Incorporating string lights and a fog machine can also enhance the mood you are going for.

A Halloween wedding can be so unique and unprecedented, while still exhibiting all the beauty and charm of a traditional wedding.  Incorporating elements of enchantment, nature and culture allows for creativity and personalization. No matter which way you choose to go for your Halloween wedding, using our tips will make it possible to honor this holiday in a way that is both authentic and tasteful. 

If you are planning a Halloween themed wedding, take a look at our blog, Things to Consider When Planning a Fall Wedding,  for some insight on all the things that can make a fall wedding absolutely magical.