Party Planner Halloween Bash With Dina Manzo

Filler Up

For decor, Manzo suggests using seasonal squashes. "For Halloween, I fill different-size jars with gourds and mini pumpkins," she says. To kick things up a notch, try spray-painting them glittery shades of silver and gold. "A large apothecary jar with colorful or sparkling gourds and pumpkins is simply gorgeous."

SHOP NOW: Glittered Spider Vase Filler, $20

Haunted House

Mix vintage china, crystal goblets and pieces from flea markets for a very "Old Haunted Mansion" feel, suggests Manzo. She also likes to raid her mother's cabinet for funky old pieces. "The older it looks, the better."

SHOP NOW: Halloween Masks, $16 each

Get Jiggly With It

You can make just about anything out of Jell-O molds, according to Manzo. Add them to pomegranate martinis or to dark red sangria. "You can also add gummy worms for a fun little touch," she says.

SHOP NOW: Metallic Skeleton Hand, $20

Creepy Crawlers

Manzo says you can easily make spiders with a few craft store items. Try wrapping black fabric around foam and sticking in pipe cleaners to make legs. Rhinestone eyes will give them a bit of adult-like glamour.

SHOP NOW: Metallic Spider, $15

Heads Up

Skulls are trendy enough that they can now be found just about anywhere. Manzo likes to jewel them up with black crystals and use them to hold votives or even bunches of toothpicks.

SHOP NOW: Glitter Skull, $10

ON POWERWALL: Headline-Inspired Halloween Costumes

Mummy Dearest

Manzo says that muslin cheesecloth is a festive alternative to regular napkins because they look like bandages. "Their raw edges look a bit spooky, but wrapping them in crystal napkin rings will offer instant sophistication."

SHOP NOW: Spooky Burlap Table Runner, $49

A Cut Above

Transforming mini pumpkins into placeholders is one of Manzo's little tricks. She says to make a small slit on top with a knife or carving tool before firmly inserting a paper card. Alternatively, you can simply glue on the guest's initials with black rhinestones.

SHOP NOW: White Pumpkin Candle, from $24

Branching Out

Decorating with twigs and natural elements from the backyard makes for stunning table decor. "You can actually braid the pieces together or intertwine them at the ends," says Manzo. For a similar effect, city dwellers can buy willow branches, which florists sell as filler.

SHOP NOW: Lit Twig Gate, $129

A Tangled Web

Manzo says you should never forget what's above your head! She likes to hang cobwebs up above for an eerie touch. "Dangling from a beautiful light fixture makes them look fun rather than tacky."

SHOP NOW: Caged Crow String Lights, $29

Creepy Cuisine

For food, Manzo says she loves dishes that are tasty and elegant but not childlike. "Grilled vegetables like eggplant and onions are fun because they shrivel up like old bandages," she says. "I also like recipes with blood oranges, and meat with dark sauces."

SHOP NOW: Skeleton Hand Condiment Set, $59