I’m an interior design expert – your Halloween decorations look tacky and cheap
AN INTERIOR expert has revealed seven Halloween decorating mistakes that will leave your home looking tacky.
The spooky season is now in full swing and many of us will be busy decorating our homes with pumpkins, skeletons and spider webs.
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However, Halloween decoration expert Miriam Gomez of J Bell Services has revealed that many people make mistakes when decorating their homes, which can lead to them neighbors don’t be impressed.
Too much orange and black
Although orange and black are the main colors of Halloween, Miriam said too many of them can make your home look like a Halloween store.
She said: “Orange and black have their place in Halloween decor, but the key is subtlety.
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“Rather than flooding every corner of your home with these bold colors, mix them with neutral tones like gray or deep purple.
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“This creates a more refined look without losing the creepy atmosphere.”
Plastic gravestones
The expert revealed that plastic gravestones often appear cartoonish rather than creepy.
She said: ‘Plastic headstones are often clumsy and sticky.
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“If you’re going for a spooky graveyard feel, opt for smaller, more understated pieces or make your own gravestones from wood or cardboard for a more authentic, DIY vibe.”
Too many lights
String lights are a classic Halloween decoration, but can become overwhelming if you use too many.
Miriam said: “Less is more when it comes to Halloween lights.
“Stick to dim, warm-toned lights or candles to create an eerie yet inviting atmosphere.
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“Avoid flashing or overly bright lights, which can be hard on the eyes and take away from the creepy atmosphere.”
Fake materials and too much glitter
Fake plastic decorations and buckets full of glitter can make your home look gaudy.
How to Save on Halloween
CUTOUTS WILL NOT RETAIN: Once carved, pumpkins only last three to five days before they begin to rot. So wait until a day or two before Halloween to carve yours to make sure you don’t have to buy a replacement.
Chilling engravings: Cut your pumpkin properly the first time. Download free templates from Hobbycraft to ensure you don’t make any mistakes.
DEVILISH CHEAP DECORATIONS: Make creepy spider webs with old twine or twine.
PAY LESS FOR FACE PAINT: Cut costs by using your old eyeliners and eye shadows, and dab on some talcum powder if you need a ghostly white shade.
REDUCED PRICE CANDY: Before you buy candy to give out, clean out your cupboards and see what you have. If you need more, buy bulk deals and compare the price per kilo before buying.
TERRIBLE BAD LUCK: Ask your guests to each bring a delicious themed dish to your party to keep hosting costs low.
Chilling tunes: Head to YouTube for a terrifyingly good free playlist. There are dozens of channels with hour-long music mixes.
HAVE A SPOOKY SWISH: Swishing (or swapping clothes with friends) is an easy way to get a new wardrobe. Have a spooky swing before Halloween to swap costumes for kids and adults.
Frightening Freebies: Sign up for a free local Halloween event. Check your local Nextdoor or Facebook page, or search eventbrite.co.uk for ideas.
Damn good deal: Don’t look for expensive fake blood. Make your own edible version instead. You can use it for cakes and to decorate costumes.
SHOP ON NOVEMBER 1: Get organized and score next year’s bargains by hitting the stores the day after Halloween. Remember to buy your children’s costumes one size larger so they can grow.
Miriam said: “Too much glitter or fake materials such as plastic skeletons and fake spider webs can make your interior look cheap.
“Stick to real pumpkins, dried leaves and natural textures to create a tastier, authentic Halloween atmosphere.”
Loud repetitive sounds
While decorations that say “boo” or “aggh” may seem nice when you first buy them, they can quickly become incredibly annoying.
Miriam said: “Sound machines with screeching effects or loud, repetitive music can disrupt the creepy atmosphere you’re aiming for.
“Instead, choose soft, ambient sounds like rustling leaves or distant howls.
“This creates an unsettling atmosphere without overwhelming your neighbors.”
Inflatable garden decor
Inflatable garden decorations may seem like a hoot, but according to Miriam they often look tacky.
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The expert said: “While some inflatables may be fun, oversized pumpkins, ghostsand zombies usually clash with the creepy atmosphere you want to create.
“They can also easily end up in the neighbour’s garden, which is not ideal.
“Instead, consider using more classic decor, such as carved pumpkins or natural elements that enhance the Halloween spirit without sacrificing style.”
Not embracing classical elements
Pumpkins with cleverly crafted designs are timeless and add a festive charm to any home.
Miriam explains: “Carving real pumpkins with unique designs or traditional faces adds character and authenticity.
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“You can also gather natural elements such as corn stalks, twigs and dark leaves to drape around your doorway.
“This approach creates a warm, inviting atmosphere while still maintaining an eerie touch, making your home feel both festive and stylish.”
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