Halloween comes with a spooky aesthetic that captures the attention of many newlyweds-to-be, however, how do you make sure your Autumnal big day is more Wednesday Adams than horror show?
There is no need to rely on terrorising tacky touches to add ghostly charm to your wedding, there are plenty of ways to ensure a hauntingly beautiful experience no one will forget.
In order to avoid a scream-worthy error when decorating your wedding, Samantha Gilchrist, former wedding photographer turned Founder and CEO of The Gilchrist Collection, the UK’s largest wedding venue collection, gives her expert advice gathered from over 15 years in the industry.
Focus on the little touches
In the world of weddings, it’s the subtlest details that can create a special atmosphere for your big day. Just imagine a charming coffin-shaped box to hold your rings, adding a touch of uniqueness without going overboard. The ring exchange is an important moment, and this themed box will make it extra special.
Another idea to add a touch of fun is using Halloween-inspired place cards and table numbers. This way, your guests can enjoy some playful spookiness while they savor their wedding breakfast.
Ensure your venue matches the vibe
When orchestrating a Halloween-themed wedding, the choice of venue holds paramount importance. The right eerie backdrop can unquestionably establish the desired atmosphere. So, why not consider the charm of historical locations? Castles boasting stone-walled banquet halls and Victorian-style manor houses appear as if they’ve been plucked right from the pages of a Gothic novel, guaranteeing to envelop your guests in the enchantment of Halloween.
Now, what about a venue with crackling open fires? These mesmerizing additions are certain to infuse the perfect ambiance, particularly during an autumn or winter wedding when daylight wanes early in the day.
Furthermore, selecting a venue that naturally boasts photogenic spots can also work wonders for your budget, as it arrives complete with picture-perfect backdrops!
Think about the lighting
Regardless of whether your wedding is scheduled for day or night, achieving that enchanting, haunted ambiance hinges on your approach to lighting.
One simple technique for crafting a breathtaking atmosphere is through the use of artificial candles, which emit a glow akin to real flames while being far more venue-friendly! Picture the aisle aglow with the flicker of (fake) flames as you make your way toward your beloved—a truly mesmerizing sight. Table settings adorned with an abundance of candles set the stage for a memorable evening.
What’s more, candle decor is a budget-friendly choice, significantly more economical than elaborate floral arrangements. Candle holders can also be customized as a DIY project to harmonize with your chosen theme. If you’re longing for genuine flames, there are creative methods to encase candles in protective vases, lanterns, and the like, but it’s always wise to check with your venue for safety considerations.
Don’t forget the flowers
Flowers offer a delightful avenue for conveying the essence of your wedding theme in a whimsical and enchanting manner. To infuse a touch of gothic allure into your arrangements, consider incorporating deeper tones, and perhaps even a hint of black, into your floral elements. Whether it’s the bridal party bouquets or the table settings, this creative twist is bound to lend an enchanting edge to any botanical display.
Taking the botanical bewitchment a step further, why not introduce some eerie embellishments to your blooms? Picture this: deep purple or crimson pearls gracefully entwined among the stems of your table centerpieces. Or imagine the sophistication of a black velvet ribbon elegantly encircling the bridal bouquets. These subtle yet haunting additions promise to elevate your floral ensemble to an entirely new level of charm.
Try Halloween Hair and Make-up
Now, let’s be clear, we’re not suggesting you show up at your wedding looking like the Bride of Frankenstein (unless that’s totally your thing!). However, there are numerous ways to introduce an elegantly eerie touch to your hair and makeup for the big day.
Why not consider a slightly spook-tacular hair clip to keep your wedding hairstyle in place? You’ll discover an array of styles online, from sparkly bats and spiders to more understated options like a delicate skeleton hand, ensuring your hair stays beautifully coiffed all day long.
And when it comes to your makeup, a deep red lipstick paired with bold black eyeliner can infuse a bewitching allure into your look. You’ll find plenty of inspiration online, whether it’s a subtle bat wing eyeliner or the playful addition of faux vampire teeth peeking out from beneath that striking red lipstick. So, go ahead, have fun, and let your creativity run wild!
