How to Throw a Chic Grownup Halloween Party

Spellbind and dazzle your guests with this sophisticated adults-only party. Imagine a soiree where spooky meets chic, where haunted mansion vibes blend seamlessly with a touch of glamour. Set a dramatic table with dark florals, pink velvet, glittering pumpkins and gilded skeletons. Treat guests to a spooky charcuterie spread, cocktails and sweets, and a spider-infested croquembouche as the edible centerpiece.

This tabletop isn't just a setting — it's an experience. Velvety textures, metallic hues of pink, burgundy, gold and black add drama and sophistication to this spooky scene. Set against a black tablecloth, gold chargers shine. A pink velvet table runner adds a luxurious texture and lightens the mood. Glittered spider napkin rings sparkle, and skeletal place card holders usher guests to their seats.

Thrifted pink transferware plates seem to have been plucked straight from a grand estate's dining room. The mansion motif evokes a sense of haunted history, conjuring images of ghostly tales and secrets. Look for similar secondhand transferware treasures in charity shops and estate sales.

Eek! Ordinary gold wire napkin rings get an arachnid makeover. Craft them using a package of plastic toy spiders and gold wire napkin rings. Coat the spiders with a thin layer of decoupage medium, then cover with chunky black glitter. Allow the spiders to dry completely, then attach them to napkin rings using a dot of hot glue.

Eerie gilded skeleton hands emerge from mini painted pumpkins to welcome each guest to their place setting. Each holds a fancy scripted place card with a dark floral motif to match the scene. Crafted with mini foam pumpkins from the dollar store, these are easy to make and thrifty, too!