FROM ghosts and ghouls to goblins, many of us will soon be looking to transform our homes into a haunted masterpiece in time for Halloween.
But according to Hollywood‘s King of Halloween Edward Perotti, who has worked with A-list clients from Ariana Grande to Nick Jonas, you should approach with caution when decorating for this October 31st as one wrong turn could make your spooktacular overhaul look super tacky.
The award-winning designer, who lives in San Francisco, CA and has staged events everywhere from The Louvre to The Great Wall of China, is the go-to creative mastermind when you want magic in the air.
Speaking exclusively to Fabulous, he says: “The retail landscape often leans towards quick and inexpensive options that lack true spirit and creativity.
“It can be exhausting to see the overwhelming absence of good taste in Halloween décor and costumes.
“We’ve come a long way from celebrating All Hallows’ Eve with genuine intention, yet we can still elevate our celebrations.
“While I value everyone’s creative expression, true creativity requires thought and time to develop. A boxed product cannot capture that essence.”
So, what are the do’s and don’ts when it comes to adding a dose of devilishness to your home this spooky season?
Cheap-looking materials
When it comes to transforming your home into a haunted mansion, Edward is all for ideas that help to make every guest feel transported.
Think moody lighting, dramatic entrances, interactive photo moments, and take-home keepsakes that extend the fun long after the night is over.
But one thing that he believes could ruin that aesthetic is cheap materials.
Large, cartoonish inflatables, especially those with familiar character themes, risk coming off as lacking elegance
Edward Perotti ,
“Plastic skeletons and low-quality costumes detract from
the occasion,” he warns.
Instead, the ‘King of Halloween’ advises incorporating natural elements into your devilish decorations.
He urges: “Embrace real pumpkins, gourds, and natural materials that resonate with the season.”
Neon and bright colours
Even those who don’t celebrate will know that Halloween is synonymous with the colours black and orange.
And according to Edward, if there’s one colour scheme you need to avoid this October, it’s anything neon and bright.
He warns: “Overly bright decorations can create chaos instead of
festive joy.”
So, if you’re looking to cast a spell this October 31, he instead recommends choosing an elevated colour palette.
“Opt for sophisticated shades like black, grey, rust, and deep autumnal tones,” he advises.
Edward goes on to say how he’s also a fan of vintage or sophisticated pieces.
He recommends: “Add dark florals, elegant candleholders, crystals, and well-crafted items for a chic, spooky ambiance.
“And you can also layer textures. Mix gauze, velvet, or sherpa for a refined, beautiful look.”
Inflatables
While many Halloween fans amongst us may be tempted to put ghoulie inflatables outside our front doors, according to Edward, you need to think again.
He says: “Large, cartoonish inflatables, especially those with familiar character themes, risk coming off as lacking elegance.”
How to save on Halloween
CUT-OUTS WON’T KEEP: Once carved, pumpkins last just three to five days before they start to rot. So wait until a day or two before Halloween to carve yours, to ensure you won’t have to buy a replacement.
CHILLING CARVINGS: Carve your pumpkin right first time. Download free templates from Hobbycraft to help ensure no slip-ups.
DEVILISHY CHEAP DECORATIONS: Create spooky spider webs using old string or rope.
PAY LESS FOR FACE PAINTS: Cut costs by using your old eyeliners and eyeshadows, and dab on some talc when you need a ghostly white shade.
CUT-PRICE CANDY: Before you buy sweets to give out as treats, clear out your cupboards and see what you have. If you need more, shop bulk deals and compare the price per kilo before you buy.
PETRIFYING POT LUCK: Ask your guests to each bring a delicious themed dish to your party to keep hosting costs down.
SPINE-CHILLING TUNES: Turn to YouTube for a frighteningly good free playlist. There are dozens of channels with hour-long music mixes.
HOLD A SPOOKY SWISH: Swishing — or clothes-swapping with friends — is an easy way to get a new wardrobe. Hold a spooky swish before Halloween to trade costumes for kids and adults.
FRIGHTENING FREEBIES: Sign up for a free local Halloween event. Check your local Nextdoor or Facebook pages, or search eventbrite.co.uk for ideas.
BLOODY GOOD DEAL: Don’t fork out for expensive fake blood. Make your own edible version instead. You can use it for cakes and to decorate costumes.
SHOP ON NOV 1: Be organised and bag the bargains for next year by hitting the shops the day after Halloween. Remember to buy your kids’ costumes a size larger to allow for growth.
Edward goes on to point out that a “beautiful” trend that’s returning is embracing natural elements, such as fresh pumpkins, cornstalks, and hay.
“Let the spirit of the event guide your choices, and authenticity will shine,” he adds.
Overly cluttered or messy
If you’re a bit late to the party, it may be all too tempting to just cover your house in endless cobwebs to give that quick and easy spooky effect.
But Edward notes how such “disorganised decorations” or “excessive plastic spiderwebs” can “overwhelm the senses.”
He instead highlights the importance of focusing on quality over quantity when it comes to decorating your homes.
The award-winning designer adds: “Choose high-quality pieces that complement your existing décor, rather than overwhelming it with cheap trinkets.”
Lack of cohesive style
Like any home interior, Edward warns that when décor elements clash, they result in an “unpleasing, disjointed appearance.”
To avoid a chaotic look, he advises using DIY to elevate materials and to bring a sense of harmony to the eerie decorations.
He recommends: “Use spray paint to enhance inexpensive items or
create custom decorations with rich, black Halloween fabric.”
Edward goes on to issue one last word of warning..
“Let’s remember that taking time to cultivate our creativity prevents us from veering into tacky territory,” he says.
“Reflect on what makes your idea unique and personal. Above all, let’s keep our expressions free from politics, focusing instead on the joy of the celebration.”
