Moody Charcuterie Board with a Halloween Tablescape

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October 14, 2019

The House Magazine

A small table for two outside underneath some trees with a black table runner, tall black candle sticks, wine glasses filled with wine and an charcuterie board sitting on a side table right next to the main table.

There is something about Halloween that is refreshing to me as a stylist. Working with bold colors to create moody vibes is exciting after styling for the spring and summer months. My sister (The Farmhouse Story) and I share the same excitement for this time of year. So we decided to collaborate to create this little scene for two among some trees that hadn’t quite changed color yet. This season pushes us both out of our decorative comfort zones. We gravitate towards neutral and natural tones, but to honor October, we chose to use gorgeous pops of black and deep purple to accent this table. I also wanted to give you guys a simple “recipe” in this post as well, so I put together a Halloween charcuterie board with colors and flavors to accompany these October vibes.

Re-create This Tablescape

Styling a Halloween Tablescape

When I set a table for a special occasion, I typically start the planning process by deciding on a color palette. Black is such a pillar when it comes to representing this spooky month, so it’s a natural starting point. From there, I either draw inspiration from other colors or objects, such as these amazing plates from Anthropology. When I spotted these I knew I had to have them. I have been searching for a black plate and I loved the pretty details with this set of four. Those details are what inspired the rest of the scene – moody purples from berries, figs, grapes and the wine, and white touches for a bit of whimsy. To keep things on the pretty, more elegant side (like the plates), we mixed in some vintage pieces with delicate white napkins to complete the scene. For more Halloween place setting inspiration, check out this post from last year.

An overhead shot of a place setting with a black dinner plate and a vintage silver salad plate on top with a fig, sliced pear, plum and a few blue berries and a sprig of basil decorating the plate.

A close up view of an outdoor table setting with a thin black table runner, tall black candle sticks and two black dinner plates filled with fruits in shades of purple.

A close up view of a floral arrangement of teracotta roses, cafe au lait dahlias, white cosmos, and sprigs of blooming basil.

An overhead shot of a small outdoor table setting for two with black dinner plates with two glasses of wine and fruits in shades of purple.

Once I have a direction, I always take a look at my current inventory to see what will work to accent the focal pieces of the table. Typically, if I don’t have what I need I barrow (my sister is an excellent source) or vintage shop. If I do buy new like I did this time, I try to sources pieces that I will continue to use throughout the year, not just for one special occasion.

I also love to incorporate food into the decor on the table. It can be so beautiful, especially seasonal fruits like the ones used to accompany the meat and cheese. The colors are amazing, it adds texture and those natural elements I’m so in love with. Your guests can also make use of this kind of decor, which is great when you’re on a budget.

I hope sharing bits of my styling process tablescape tips have inspired you to create your own classy, but spooky scene for your upcoming Halloween party.

A side angle view of a place setting with a black dinner plate, vintage silver salad plate, white vintage tied napkin with purple fruits on the table and a sprig of basil.

A side angle view of a place setting with a black dinner plate, vintage silver salad plate, white vintage tied napkin with purple fruits on the table and a sprig of basil.

What is a Charcuterie Tray?

Literally, it’s an arrangement of cured meats on a tray that’s usually accompanied by and assortment of cheese, fruits, nuts, olives, sauces and is typically served with wine (or in my case – all of the time). It’s one of my favorite party go-to’s – I love bring able to make one as large or as small as you need. It’s also easy to create seasonal and holiday versions by incorporating ingredients that are in season. Eric and I also enjoy Charcuterie for two if I need a break from cooking during the week or don’t have anything planned. It’s are favorite fall back and perfect for at-home date nights.

An overhead shot of a charcuterie board organized with an antique muffin tin on top of a long wooden platter filled with blueberries, blackberries, figs, olives, cheese, and cured meats.

How To Make a Halloween Charcuterie Board

Again, I will refer back to the color palette – Halloween is saturated with deep and dark tones. This time of year it’s so easy to find the deepest of purples in fruits. Figs, berries, and plums. A hint of black from the salty olives. Dark aged and cured salami and prociutto. Cheese soaked in wine. Walk around the store and see what flavors you can find that go well together, and with colors that reflect Halloween.

Add unique touches to the platter with different containers for the ingredients, or add vintage cocktail utensils. I used a vintage muffin tin to organize some of the cheese, salami, fruits and olives on top of a wooden board that was holding some of the larger food items. I love the color and texture combination of this cheese board. Such an easy way to present the yummiest appetizers for the next time you entertain. Slice, arrange and enjoy.

Flowers by Spring Creek Designs.

Charcuterie board with sliced cured meats, purple fruit and cheese with an antique muffin pan organizing the ingredients.