Incorporate These Ghostly Designs for your October Event
October is a mystical month when the air turns crisp, trees transform into brilliant hues, and spookiness fills the atmosphere. It’s the perfect time to embrace the spirit of the season and plan a truly Spooktacular event that your guests will remember for years to come. As an event stationery designer, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless clients to create invitations and stationery that set the stage for their celebrations. Learn how you can incorporate some awesome points for your next big Halloween party!
How to Design an Unforgettable Event This October
1. Define Your Spooky Vision By Declaring a Theme
Before you dive into planning, take some time to define your spooky vision for the event. Decide on the theme, whether it’s classic Halloween, haunted mansion, vintage horror, or something entirely unique. Your event’s theme will influence every aspect, from decorations to stationery design. A mood board can be a great way to get a general palette and vibe together for your party!
2. Set the Expectations with Spooktacular Stationery
As an event stationery designer, I can’t stress enough the importance of creating custom invitations and stationery that set the tone for your event. Consider the following:
Invitations: Design invitations that give your guests a sneak peek into the theme and atmosphere of the event. Incorporate spooky elements like cobwebs, bats, or vintage horror motifs for a dramatic effect.
RSVP Cards: Create RSVP cards that tie in seamlessly with the invitations, making it easy for guests to respond. Consider using clever phrases like “Will Haunt” or “Will Not Haunt” instead of the usual “Yes” or “No.”
Programs and Menus: For larger gatherings or sit-down dinners, design spooky programs and menus that showcase your theme. These can include descriptions of dishes with eerie names and stories about your event’s inspiration.
This is a great opportunity to be unique or integrate something personal. Think about your favorite parts of Halloween and how you can integrate them.
3. Venue Selection and Décor
If you can choose a venue that complements your spooky theme. Look for locations with character and potential for transformation. Once you’ve secured your venue or maybe you’ve decided to host at your home, focus on décor:
Lighting: Use candles, lanterns, and dim lighting to create a mysterious ambiance. Incorporate colored lights to match your theme.
Centerpieces: Design eerie centerpieces using elements like black roses, skulls, or vintage-style lanterns. Consider using dry ice for a spooky fog effect.
Wall Decorations: Adorn the walls with creepy portraits, framed mirrors, and spiderwebs. Vintage frames and ornate mirrors can add a touch of elegance to the eerie atmosphere. A thrift store or antique store could be a great source for affordable décor that with a little DIY can make a great eerie setting.
Nothing says spine-chilling party like hosting at the Lemp Mansion. Have an evening filled with delicious food, ghost tours, and a chilling night stay.
4. Costume Dress Code
Encourage your guests to embrace the spirit of the season by having a costume dress code. Specify whether you want classic costumes, costumes related to your theme, or even a costume contest to add an extra element of fun. Make sure to dress up yourself to really set the tone for your event!
5. Halloween Entertainment and Activity Ideas
Keep your guests engaged with spooky entertainment and activities. Consider:
October-Themed Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth with spooky props and backdrops for memorable pictures.
Tell Ghost Stories: If appropriate for your venue, host a session of spine-tingling ghost stories or legends.
Dance Party: Organize a dance floor with a playlist of Halloween and thriller-themed songs.
6. Give Out Ghoulish Goodies
Don’t forget the treats! Offer guests ghoulishly delightful refreshments, from themed cocktails to a dessert bar filled with Halloween-inspired sweets. This can be a great opportunity to tackle your creative side and decorate some of your own baked treats! Alternatively you can use a local business to supply your yummy snacks!
A great St. Louis based bakery is Steel City Cheesecakes, they can provide both delicious and terrifying baked cheesecakes!
7. Send Home Spooky Party Favors
Send your guests home with party favors that tie in with your theme. These could include mini pumpkin decorations, customized candles, or even spooky-themed stationery as a nod to your event’s designer.
Planning a Spooktacular event this October is an exciting endeavor that allows you to unleash your creativity. By defining your spooky vision, investing in Spooktacular stationery, carefully selecting your venue and decor, embracing costumes, offering engaging entertainment, providing delicious treats, and sending guests home with memorable party favors, you’ll create an event that lingers in their memories like a ghostly presence. With the right planning and attention to detail, your Spooktacular event will be a hauntingly good time for all.
XOXO – Chelsey