{clockwise left to right: polka dot lighted pumpkins via Imperfectly Beautiful, all other pumpkins via Martha Stewart’s Halloween photo galleries}

With Halloween approaching this weekend, I’m a little sad we did not get a pumpkin this year since we will be out of town. I would have loved to try some of these pretty carving and hand painted ideas as an alternative to the classic jack o’lantern.

{clockwise left to right: Victorian pumpkins from Martha Stewart, photo by Dana Gallagher via Country Living, stenciled pumpkin DIY, and pumpkin fireplace shot via Country Living}

{above: mini pumpkins light the way from Martha Stewart, and trick or treat pumpkin greeting, photo by Matthew Benson via Country Living}

It seems that Halloween becomes a bigger holiday every year with retailers providing an array of items to create a macabre mood.

{Clockwise left to right: shocktails decorating kit, paper lanterns kit, venetian feather mask, pre-lit grapevine pumpkins, Creepy crawlies/Skelegant mug designed by my talented friend, Elisa Cachero, available at select Barnes & Noble locations, beaded cobweb charger, skull porcelain set of 4 plates, raven plate, black vinyl lace placemats, trick or treat for unicef bag and gothic throw pillows}

Luxe Halloween items {Clockwise left to right: encyclopedia skull and bones chart , crow mobile, skull and bones barware, gold journal with skull stamp, halloween cupcake topper labels, and salem candle}

If you’re throwing a party, there is no better source of inspiration for tricks & treats than the amazing Amy Atlas, queen of dessert tables.

{Images above via Amy Atlas website}

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