Halloween decorating usually goes one of two ways: full horror-movie, or barely decorated at all. We like the middle ground — cosy with a wink of spooky. Novelty candles are perfect for it, because they do the decorating and the mood-lighting in one. Our mummy ghost candle duo is just £7.00, and it is currently 10% off until 1 November. Here is how we style candles for a Halloween evening that feels warm, not haunted.
Keep the lighting low
Candlelight flatters everything and instantly makes a room feel like October. On Halloween night we switch off the big light and let candles and fairy lights do the work. The mummy ghosts look their best in low light, when their little wrapped shapes throw soft shadows. Pop them on a side table, the mantel, or either end of the dining table where they can be seen but will not be knocked over.
Cluster, do not scatter
One candle on its own can look a bit lost. Two or three grouped together — different heights if you can manage it — reads as deliberate styling. Set the duo on a small tray or a stack of books to give them a base, and tuck in a couple of conkers, dried leaves or a mini pumpkin around them. It takes a minute and it looks like you planned it for weeks.
Mix your textures
Spooky-cosy is all about contrast: the soft glow of the candles against something rough or natural. Wood, slate, linen, dried foliage — all of these make candlelight feel richer. We keep a little tray of autumn bits (pinecones, acorns, dried orange slices) that comes out every October and just gets rearranged around whatever candles we are burning.
A note on burning them safely
Novelty candles are almost too cute to light, but they are made to burn — just do the usual: never leave them unattended, keep them away from curtains and paper decorations, and put them on a heat-proof surface. If you have restless pets around on a noisy night, our Bonfire Night guide for dogs has tips for keeping evenings calm. Find more candlelit inspiration in our Halloween & Cosy Nights collection.