Try Halloween Wedding

Couples may not want to pursue the scary side of the Halloween theme when planning a wedding around that holiday, but a wedding at Halloween is an opportunity to create a very special ambience reflecting the season and some of the elegant aspects of the Halloween tradition.

The new Halloween tradition has adopted the Victorian version of the Count Dracula story, which has inspired formality in some Halloween party costumes. The Count is usually portrayed in a tuxedo, and ladies following this Vampire theme often wear long gowns with high collars or wings. The popular Adams Family television series built up this aspect of the Halloween tradition, and developed a style close to the Gothic theme popular during Victorian times. The Gothic style also can be seen throughout the music and lifestyle tastes of many modern couples. A Halloween wedding can take advantage of the formality and elegance of the Victorian era, while having a modern lifestyle appeal in a gothic way.

For the groom and best man, a black tuxedo can be complemented with a top hat, cape and cane of a Victorian nature. A red lining to the cape brings out the Halloween association with Vampires, without making the connection too obvious. For the bride and bridesmaids, full elegant or even hooded gowns, with high or wing collars, are suggested, although any long and elegant style would be compatible.

The orange, black, red and yellow colors associated with Halloween are derived mainly from the pumpkin and the underworld theme, but are also colors associated with the Autumn as the leaves change color. These warm colors used in the decorations for a Halloween wedding acknowledge both the festival and the season. Seasonal flowers that can be carried along with this color theme include red, orange and yellow roses and tiger and calla lilies.

The Victorian era also made use of dark colors, such as reds and burgundies and dark stained woods, which could influence the choice of venue for a Halloween wedding. Victorian furnishings, chandeliers and wood paneling would certainly add to the Halloween atmosphere.

Dark colored table cloths instead of white are suggested, either black or red. The autumn theme could be developed with the tables sprinkled with gold, orange and yellow confetti, rose petals or artificial leaves.

Cherubs and angels were popular decor items during the Victorian Gothic era, and could be featured as table decoration, candle holders and for holding place names. Another slightly bolder and macabre play on the Halloween theme would be to make named tombstones as place name holders.

As your featured lighting you may want to use candles during the Halloween wedding reception. The low light reflects the shortening of the nights and the mood of Halloween. Thick, chunky candles in autumn colors seem to work well. You can use a few plain gourds as candle holders. This will bring out the warm Fall colors and make reference to the carved pumpkins, so well known on Halloween.

For your wedding favors it is suggested you use something that reflects the Halloween spirit in some way. You may want to try Halloween themed candies, candles or a small Halloween decoration.

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