Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Halloween Home Décor 2013

When it comes to home décor, Halloween can be a bit of a challenge. You want to celebrate the occasion, but without going overboard. Bright orange plastic pumpkins may be great for your kids’ bedrooms or out on your front step, but what about your living room or dining room? You want to keep things elegant and sophisticated in these spaces. You've worked hard to achieve a certain ambiance and color scheme. You can still make things spooky while coordinating with your everyday décor.

Here are some photos and ideas for inspiration.

 Candles, skulls and forest imagery:


[photo credit: http://bit.ly/19sxzPw]

While we often associate candles with romance, they can also serve to create a bone-chilling effect. They are reminiscent of a witch’s house or a vampire’s lair. The right candle holders - like these, made to look like tree trunks - will also help bring about the Halloween spirit. A picture of bare-bones trees and a subtle skull element complete the look.

Gourds of another name:


[photo credit: http://bit.ly/1aEC6ML]

While orange pumpkins may be the norm at Halloween, don’t forget they come in other colors - and shapes! Dress up your dining room table with an assortment of gourds and a few votives scattered throughout. This look does double duty too! This theme can be easily carried over into November as it works for Thanksgiving décor as well.

Fancy your fireplace:



[photo credit: http://bit.ly/1797e9A]

Jack-o-lanterns don’t always have to have faces. This super-chic fireplace decoration uses carved pumpkins to create the effect of a roaring fire. Muted orange candles help complete the look while keeping in step with the color scheme.

An homage to spooky literature:



[photo credit: http://bit.ly/16qRQXM]

The holiday has inspired scores of literature and film throughout the years. Why not choose a theme based on that, like this mantle inspired by Edgar Allen Poe’s The Raven. You’ll be searching for the perfect Halloween décor “nevermore.”

Decorating for Halloween doesn't mean you have to turn your more formal spaces into child’s play. There are plenty of simple, elegant ways to dress up your house for the occasion without interrupting the usual feel of a room!

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Great Family Costumes for Halloween 2013

October is here and before you know it, Halloween will be too! Whether you have a party to attend, or plan on trick-or-treating as a group, there are some great ways to dress up as a family. Besides making you the talk of the town, dressing up together will help you keep your troops wrangled for a fun and safe Halloween.

Check out these great suggestions for family costumes. And no excuses, Mom and Dad, these have options for all ages!


The Toy Story Gang



(Photo credit: http://bit.ly/GLqxes)

This modern classic Pixar film has a lot of character possibilities. The theme can really be used for any size family! The family in the picture chose Woody, Jessie, Bo Peep, her sheep and Mr. Potato Head. Some other options to consider are T-Rex, Buzz Lightyear, Slinky Dog, Etch-a-Sketch, Barbie and the Army Men. Just make sure you all hold still when Andy shows up!

Angry Birds


(Photo credit: http://bit.ly/GKZKjt)

You’re already addicted to the game – you may as well make it known to the public. This bright and colorful costume idea will work for family members of all sizes. You might even consider teaming up with a rival family, who can dress up as those pesky pigs. 

The Laundry


(Photo credit: http://huff.to/1fI3kdn)



Milk and Cookies



(Photo credit: http://huff.to/1fI3kdn)

Why not dress up like one of America’s favorite families? Get creative with your cookie choice here. You could all be chocolate chip, Oreos or maybe Teddy Grahams. If you can’t decide, go as an assortment. Everyone loves to have options!


BLT Sandwich



(Photo credit: http://bit.ly/QCziXA)

A sandwich is only as good as its parts. Mom and Dad are what hold this BLT together. If you’ve got an extra little one in your family, perhaps you’ll be more in the mood for a BLT with cheese this year!


Got some more great family costume ideas? We’d love to hear from you!