Halloween Decorating: An Elegant Approach!

 The English tea table in the foyer at Fox Hall is decorated with a quiet nod to Halloween.

BOO!

On Halloween, I prefer to decorate my home in a subdued, elegant way rather than a spooky one.  I have never been keen on over-the-top Halloween decorations or costumes; instead, I strive for a more understated, elegant, bewitchingly beautiful style!

Yes, my family carved pumpkins and went trick-or-treating. I enjoyed creating and reusing some of my own past costumes for our three children, including a formal Japanese kimono (wig and all!), a colorful Hawaiian grass skirt, and a much-loved Dutch girl outfit. We continue the longstanding “Holden” tradition of having hamburgers and milkshakes for Halloween dinner (nothing like a bit of sugar just before commencing this candy-gathering evening!).

But, regarding decorating our house, I prefer more low-key decorations. I embrace the challenge of repurposing several items that I already own. It is SO easy to embellish a Staffordshire dog with an orange ribbon collar, collect mums from the garden,  and fill a silver basket with candy corn!  I want the Halloween aura to feel fashionably festive, not scary.

Three years ago, my daughter-in-law, Karen (then pregnant with our grandson!), and I made a video about Halloween decorating.  The YouTube video shares some tips for creating a festive Halloween atmosphere without going “overboard.”  We had such fun… along with my ol’ Victor the Vulture, who, after 30 years, has become rather feather-bare! 

So, what about you? How do you decorate for Halloween?

I hope you have a boo-utiful Halloween!

Xx, Holly