trick or treat.

I don’t know about you, but I am *super* excited about Halloween this year. Halloween is one of my absolute favorite holidays, and I will never understand the people who choose not to partake in the fun. All of that said, I was feeling that the past couple of years my costumes may have been a little too realistic, and not exactly whimsical or out-there enough (think Rachel Zoe – and yes, Daniel was kind enough to be my Brad). Don’t worry, dolls, because this year that’s about to change. You’ll have to stay tuned to see the final result, but I can assure you it will be worth the wait! Or, you know… At least good for a laugh or two.

And to go along with my renewed obsession with one of my all-time favorite holidays, I’ll be hosting a little pre-party to get the evening going. I happen to live right in the heart of where most of the parties are happening downtown, so it’s a natural place for friends to gather to start the night.

I know what you’re thinking – who am I kidding? We all know the truth:  It’s the perfect excuse for me to make lots of fun Halloween eats and treats for all of my faves. Here are some of the greatest Halloween-themed goodies I’ve found around the way this year – some of which I’ll be making this weekend!

Witches’ Brew

{found here}

You know any theme party of mine must start with a signature cocktail for the evening, and this witches’ brew is pure perfection. I found a black plastic witches’ cauldron to serve it in, and one of my besties is even bringing the dry ice! It’ll all go perfectly with my spider-web covered walls. Just don’t forget the vodka.

Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

{found here}

I’ve seen a lot of Halloween cupcakes, but these are by far my favorite. Annie of Annie’s Eats did such a fabulous job with the decorating, and most importantly, I know I can trust her recipe to be great. I love the way hers turned out so much that I plan on decorating mine very similarly – though I can’t say for sure they will turn out so perfectly!

Jack-O-Lantern Cheese Ball

{found here}

Because we’ve got to have a little something savory to go with our sweets. I fell in love with this pumpkin the moment I saw it, and I know it’s going to be a hit. Who doesn’t like cheese? The mini pickle for the stem is just brilliant.

Ghost Meringues

{found here}

There’s something so adorable about little white ghosts, and I couldn’t resist these meringues. I’ve still yet to try a meringue recipe but it seems pretty easy, and these are even more special thanks to the chocolate-coating on the bottom and the elegant little silver beads as eyes.

Graveyard Pots de Crème

{found here}

These are basically little chocolate puddings with Oreos made to look like dirt, and Milano cookies serving as tombstones. Die. So adorable. Probably a little too fancy for the type of gathering I’m hosting, but if I were doing a sit-down dinner I would so be making these.

Jack-O-Lantern Cake Pops

{found here}

I realize the jack-o-lantern is making multiple appearances here, but these cake pops are just too cute to leave out. If you’re unfamiliar with Bakerella, then I suggest you familiarize yourself, because everything she makes is just incredible. I’ve been toying with the idea of making her famed cake pops lately, but I’ve decided to go with cupcakes this time because I just couldn’t resist some of the special decorations I found. Maybe I will try them out for another certain favorite holiday?