Halloween decor you're not afraid of...

 

Having a theatrical background (all time love, Sweeney Todd) and a passion for film scores (think Carlos' The Shining and Danny Elfin) has it's advantages when it comes to Halloween around our house. That and living with a kiddo who spent most of his life hoping to be Tim Burton, you can just imagine what the month of October brings us. 
Suffice to say we barely recover for Christmas.

photo courtesy of ciaonewportbeach.blogspot.com

So this week I thought it might be fun to bring you some ideas of not so scary, and not so tacky....almost tactful decorating ideas to help liven up your home and garden. Read on...

A fabulous pumpkin book by sundayview.blogspot.com

Shelterness and Ciaonewportbeach.blogspot.com
have some sweet, not so scary, fall decorating ideas that are sure to keep the little ones running up to your door.

Pumpkins don't always have to be orange. Try something a little different!

   

When it comes to Halloween, I'm a big believer that less is less, but I admit there is something about just the essence of a theme that can also be enchanting.




photo courtesy of sadiepriss.blogspot.com

My family would agree that we all benefit from keeping sharp objects out of my hands, so I am a sucker for a great painted pumpkin. 



photo courtesy of Kristen Sitton

And, like a crow, I am always attracted to shiny objects.


I love a centerpiece that, with a few quick changes, can go the distance (read: Thanksgiving!)



photo courtesy of uptodateinteriors.com

photo courtesy of shelterness.com

And of course, you need to add in some craft ideas. Those who know me will attest to the fact that I am not very crafty (see above mentioned comment about sharp objects), so the maximum impact for the least amount of effort is attractive to me when it comes to this department...



Water balloons, and stockings, and glow sticks, oh my...

Whether it's kids in cute cuddly costumes you love or frightening masks and screams that make your hair stand up that gets your blood pumping, Halloween brings out the kid in all of us!

Ever thought your house was haunted? Or that you heard a funny noise...wait, did you hear that??!! I think I just heard a door creak open...don't look back! Just kidding!

But seriously if you have a minute, Houzz.com has a fun little quiz to take to find out what kind of haunted house you have. 

And if you are anywhere in the northeast in the next few weeks, check out an incredible display of awesome frightfullness (ten years later my daughter still can't look at a chain saw the same way) of Haunted Overload




photo courtesy of hauntedoverload.com

If you can't get to them, they will gladly reside in your living room on Oct 28th courtesy of ABC's The Great Halloween Fright Night. 


For more ghostly inspiration, float on over to my pinterest and check out some frighteningly good ideas.

Eerily yours,

Renee



Psst...there's a package on your front porch!

No, not really. There isn't a package on your front porch. But seriously, when was the last time you went out there? Once upon a time front porches were designed and built for the purpose of extending the living area of the home. It was a place to cool off from long hot days spent in the fields, or to share a glass of lemonade with your neighbors. Think about it....when was the last time you actually enjoyed your front porch? Maybe it's time to stop pulling into your garage and heading straight inside! Pretend you are a visitor and head to the front door! Take a moment to figure out what's missing!

Life has become so complicated and fast-paced that we hardly pay attention to our porches! Unless you are lucky enough to have a beautiful view from your porch it's unlikely you've sat and relaxed on yours recently. They are still quite popular in home designs, but not many homeowners know what to do with them!

With a little bit of attention, you'll get a lot of reward! I recommend starting with a walkway. What says, "Come on over!" or "Welcome to our home." more than a walkway to your front porch? Make your walkway nice and wide, and think about adding some interest. Even a slight curve can change the look & feel of your entryway. Consider using some lighting along the way.

 Now that I've got you on my porch, what's next? A fun and creative way to add some style to your porch is by adding some interesting trim pieces like the ones seen here. There are many different varieties available to suit your taste or your needs. It can add a little bit of privacy or just a beautiful design element.

Lighting is also a key element to your front porch. While your lights need to be functional, keep in mind that they set the mood for the entire house. So often I see houses with outdoor lighting that is just too small. Keep in mind the size and scale of your home when choosing your lights. I love this front porch ~ the scale and design of the lanterns are just perfect!

You don't have to spend a ton of money to make your front entry way look like it hasn't been forgotten. Simply giving your front door a new coat of paint in a splashy color will do the trick!

Break away from the traditional black and try one of these fun colors! Pair it with a stand out door knocker or mix it up with diamond shaped mullions on the door.


If space allows, I always like to add seating for at least two people. Of course you can't go wrong with the traditional rocking chairs, but there are also so many updated designs available today, all in weather resistant materials. Even a simple painted bench, like this one from +Pottery Barn can spruce up the look of your front entryway.

Change the pillows with the seasons and voila! Everyone will want to sit with you! Or, bring back the porch swing. This one by The Porch Store is just perfect for that afternoon nap!

I'm not going to lie, I love the idea of a daybed swing and outdoor window treatments. It's just so romantic! Here are some of my favorites.

 

 

 

Porch design can range from simple to outrageous. Peaceful to useful, budget conscious to expensive. Whatever your taste or budget may be, it's a part of our home that should not be overlooked. After all, you only get one chance to make a first impression!

Cheers,

Renee