Get Inspired! An Adult Halloween Party

Whoever said Halloween was for kids was clearly mistaken. We'd like to introduce our new "Get Inspired!" series of party planning inspiration boards to help you get your creative juices flowing for your own happening events. After all, we are entering the busiest season of all, jam-packed with one holiday after another. So let's get started with our first board of the season!

Theme: A Grown-Up Halloween
Colors: Black and Orange

Click image below to enlarge.

Top Row: Dishware from Pottery Barn; Monogram pumpkins from Martha Stewart; Pumpkin Whoopie Pies from Rachel Ray; Table setting from BBJ Linen
Second Row: Halloween Jenga from Amazon.com; AFI's top horror film Psycho; Halloween Chandelier from Enchanted Decor; Stars from Enchanted Decor
Third Row: Chandelier details from Ballard Designs; Trick or Treat lighted bags from Ballard Designs; Cheddar Fondue from Food Network; Spooky cocktails from Food Network
Bottom Row: Chocolate spider dessert from Food Network; Bat glitter candles from Plum Party; Mrs. Incredible costume from Display & Costume; Napkins from Plum Party

Let's get down to business...

The Colors: Go classic orange and black. Since orange is not a color most people use often, select accent pieces like napkins, candlesticks and small decorations that are orange in color. Then choose black items that are more recyclable like your chairs, table linens and candlesticks to complete the look.

The Decor: Halloween is a pretty simple holiday to find decorations for. But if you have the time and energy, try simple crafts for your decorations like pumpkin carving, glittered votive candle holders and edible spooky snacks. Homemade decorations are far more interesting and impressive.

The Entertainment: What would a Halloween party be without a scary film? We checked AFI's top 50 horror films and the film Psycho topped the list. Even if you aren't all going to sit down and watch it intently, stick it in your dvd player and let it run. Just the screams and scary music will add to the overall abiance.

The Food: Plan a meal that allows people to gather around the table, talk and mingle. A formal sitdown dinner is just not appropriate for a Halloween party. Consider a fondue party with cheddar cheese dip. It's a fun and tasty activity, plus it matches your color scheme!

The Fun: Since it is a Halloween Party after all, costumes are a must! Give an award for the best costume and the most creative costume. It will turn your event into a competition, encouraging your guests to step it up a notch. And since you are the awesome party planner that you are, we suggest going as Mr. or Mrs. Incredible!