When dreaming up ideas for this year’s Halloween table, I wanted to do something different. I’ve never been one for the blood and gore of the holiday, but I do love an excuse to dress up. Which made me think more the in direction of a masquerade of sorts. One inspired by botanicals and butterflies, with a dark twist…


We call it ‘The Butterfly Ball’.


These fabulous dishes set the tone for the scene in more ways than one. The masquerade element, and the Italian influence of that iconic Lina Cavalieri face made famous by Fornasetti. I knew I wanted eerie butterflies, marble and a setting that would be right at home in some old haunted villa…


Along with that, a hint of of botanicals – preferably of the deadly variety – adorn a modern shelf in the background along with curiosities and accoutrements.


I love this fabulous bowl that looks very Kelly Wearstler-esque but is actually from Target!




Mod glassware and a mix of antique silver and gold flatware felt perfect with those marble chargers.



And of course, we can’t forget the menu. Black spaghetti tendrils seemed only appropriate…



I love the juxtaposition of light and dark throughout the concept and the table. Taking a theme that feels like it belongs to spring, and bringing it into a dark holiday is totally unexpected. I imagine ladies and gents dressing in their tattered best – a tulle skirt that’s been moth eaten. A ragged dinner jacket, with the host providing masks for all…

Here’s how to get the look yourself – whether for a Halloween party or a simply stunning dinner…
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sources: dishes | glassware | gold flatware | marble chargers | marble bowl | skull on pedestal | bowl with hands | skull with botanicals | butterflies | tablecloth and napkins from pedersen’s linens
photography by meghan klein for coco+kelley