How to Host a Bewitching Halloween Party

Step One: The tablecloth.

You’ll want to use a black tablecloth and black table runner to create that dark broody presence all around your table. I like to lay the tablecloth down and then scrunch the runner down the center of the table. Don’t make the runner perfectly straight, instead crinkle it a bit to give it more of a “moody” feel.

Step Two: The centerpiece.

I wanted the center of my table to be dramatic, but simple. Instead of flowers in the center of the table, I went with an all black wicker pumpkin. It’s perfect because it is in keeping with the “moodiness” of the table, but doesn’t distract from all the other elements happening within this tablescape.

Step Three: Flowers.

I think flowers should be a part of almost any tablescape, even for Halloween. Here’s the thing, with the theme of this table being dark and moody, you‘ll want to use dark colors like deep reds and purples. I also wanted to create the look of vials that witches tend to use (I mean, you know, in the movies…) so instead of using normal flowers vases, I used three different decanters, all of different shapes and sizes. I know that sounds odd, but the decanters add an element of elegance and class, but also give off a very moody vibe. I loved this look. Tip: buy your flowers a few days in advance and let them begin to slowly die. The dying flowers add and extra special “spooky” touch to the table.

Step Four: Candles.

The candles are such a major part of this tablescape. I like using pillar candles to create height on the table. Tip: let the candles burn down a little before guests arrive. This will give them an older look and allow for wax to drip down the sides.

Step Five: Set the table.

Use a mix of black and dark grey when setting the table. I went with a darker grey plate, coup champagne glasses, matte black utensils, and charcoal black napkins. To give each place setting a special touch, I tied a single flower into each napkin and finished the places off with mini white pumpkins.

Step Six: Fill in your table.

To give the table a little life and color, I scattered dried pumpinos down the center of my table. Not only are these pretty, but because they are dried, they create that look of an almost rotten pumpkin, which feels very fitting for this table. I then added a few decorations like black scarecrows, cauldrons, and scattered some dying flowers around the plates. Tip: just before you are about to sit down, add water and dry ice to the cauldrons to create an eerie graveyard looks.

Step Seven: Add a cheese plate.

I don’t know if witches like cheese, but adding a black marble cheese plate not only adds elegance, but also some delicious food. Be sure to include some wrinkly figs and deep, dark pomegranates onto your plate…naturally “spooky” looking foods.

Step Eight: The wine.

Place a decanted of red wine at one end of the table. This is not only convenient, but also adds yet another layer of spookiness.

Step Nine: Make a Black Cat Cake.

Yes, I added this as a step because the cake is such a huge part of this table, and trust me, it is so much easier than you think to make. Plus, no Witches Dinner could ever be complete without a black cat. The bonus here is that you get to eat the cake…it’s so chocolatey and delicious.

Step Ten: Witches Brew.

A mix of pomegranate, cider, and vodka (or tequila). Just trust me, your table needs this brew. Happy Halloween!

Black Cat Cake Recipe

Witches' Brew Cocktail Recipe