Roaring fires, haunting skulls, rusted swords, shimmering chalices and the hint of ghostly spirits — there’s something definitively scary and oh-so-perfect for Halloween about a medieval scene. We can’t help but get the shivers every time we look at this spooky set up from our Get Medieval Halloween Party this year.
To get the scoop on how to bring this same feel home for Halloween, we talked to one of our amazing catalog stylists. Read on for his expert tips!
Q: What was the inspiration behind this shoot? What makes this style particularly spooky to you?
A: There’s a streak of inspiration derived from medieval themes and storytelling in the culture right now, manifested in everything from fictional television shows to popular novels, so why not extend the trend to a Halloween party? It’s an opportunity to safely explore the darker side of a particular period of history.
Q: What are your top 3 necessities for a creepy Medieval-inspired Halloween set up?
A: I think the top necessity is a certain flickering quality of light, delivered by novelty candles, candlesticks, and of course a roaring fire. Next would be fantastical serving pieces — I love the dragon silhouettes from Pottery Barn this year. Third is period-appropriate food; all these elements will work together to transport your guests to another place and time… for one spooky evening.
Q: Tell us about that awesome cake and amazing food spread!
A: Rather than setting out meaty legs of mutton for your guests to carry around and gnaw on, I decided on one shank of prosciutto, along with other pre-sliced meats and cheeses. Slightly more chic and manageable. And since we’re in dark Medieval times, I felt the cake had to bleed… this cake bleeds raspberry coulis.
Q: What tips would you want to share with customers who want to arrange a similar set up at their party?
A: My biggest tip would be to take stock of what you already have around the house, with an eye for medieval spin. Then fill in what you’re missing with key purchases that will flesh out the concept. In the end, a little can go a long way.
Q: The bar set up is fantastic, too. What would you suggest putting in that amazing dragon drink dispenser?
A: Beverages like mulled wine, honeyed mead, or non-alcoholic concoctions based on those medieval libations would work well.
spookalicious!
Love the cake!!!!
I’m especially in love with the dragon drink dispenser! That bar setup is super cool, it’s probably the time, but it also looks very “Games of Throne-ish”, so it would work well at a likewise themed Halloween party.
I love the medieval Halloween collection. Will it be back next year?