Let’s Throw a Halloween Party!

What happens when a stylist and one of the country’s most celebrated collectors of vintage Halloween pieces get together? A party is planned of course! Karin Lidbeck Brent shares the tricks and treats behind the a magical outdoor party that she and Bruce Elsass created to celebrate one of their favorite holidays.

The idea began with this amazing collection of beautiful vintage paper Halloween decorations, owned by my friend Bruce Elsass. Bruce is a well known for his Halloween collections, and I was in such awe over his extensive and exquisite collection that I said ”let’s throw a party” and he jumped right in without hesitation.

What better place to throw a Halloween fete than in the woods?  Over the next few days, We went to work carving pumpkins, hanging lanterns, and setting a spectacular scene.

A large galvanized trough found at the Elizabeth Reilly Kalban Vintage shop was topped with an old wood door then draped with cheesecloth, antique candelabras, Bruce’s Hobgoblins plates, and his collection of vintage Jack O’Lanterns. Mismatched chairs added even more charm while black crows added a bit of the macabre. 

We scavenged for old tables and vessels to hold a delicious butternut squash soup served in a pumpkin. Earthenware bowls and Bakelite utensils in fall hues completed the soup-station. 

Bruce’s killer collection of face masks brightened a pile of pumpkins that beckoned guests to enjoy one of the many treats at the dessert table. I used cake stands, trays, and even a pumpkin to display the sweet snacks at varying levels creating visual interest. 

Guests came dressed in costumes and ready to soak-up the Halloween spirit.

As the the sun set the Jack O’Lanterns were lit to create a glowing path for guests to follow through the woods. 

Special thanks to my friend Elizabeth Reilly Kalban for all her contributions and styling help!

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