Although not the most typical time of the year for gift giving, presents around Halloween are an enriching opportunity to offer friends and family something thematic, timeless, and wholly unique to this most haunted of occasions. Halloween resonates best when the gift feels as though it came from tghoulish stories whispered by candlelight.
Whilst this does not necessarily have to translate into giving crusted old books covered in cobwebs, or the gown that may well have been worn by a deceased beauty, the opportunity to have a little fun with gifting presents around Halloween is limitless. For making a mark with a gift that could prove to be both a trick and a treat, the following suggestions are among some of the more refined and thematically rich gifts that one could give during this hauntingly refreshing time of the year.
Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Signed First Edition
As the quintessential horror novel, what better present could there be to give fans of the gothic powerhouse than a signed 1897 first edition of Dracula, by author Bram Stoker himself. As arguably the most compelling ghastly story of all time, this version of the book may not be one that the recipient picks up and flicks through on a whim, owing to its age, but the sheer rarity of this book makes it quite the symbolic present for any true fans of the infamous vampire count. Bayliss Rare Books currently offers a version that includes Bram Stoker’s signature, with the inclusion of a handwritten letter from the author himself.
With this edition and accompanying letter being so fragile and highly prized, it’s best displayed under UV glass or in a temperature-controlled environment. But would-be buyers should have little doubt that such an item is more than worthy of becoming a hallowed relic in itself, signifying not just the power of this time of the year, but demonstrating the affect and sway the allure of the supernatural holds on our world, with art and literature just being one of its many forms.
Ardbeg “The First Witch” 19-Year Single Malt Whisky
What better way to ward off wayward spirits than by taking a sip of one that ties in nicely with the season. Thankfully, a potion of this particular ilk has been produced by Ardbeg of Islay, with just the bottle to mark the occasion. “The First Witch” limited edition is a single malt whisky aged 19 years, and with wonderful complexity and flavour. Islay is a mystical place, one of the most enchanting of the Scottish Isles, and boasting more than a few tales of folk and bog-dwelling demons, but the inspiration for this particular whisky comes from one of Scotland’s most celebrated plays –Macbeth.
Inspired by the rendition of the “Weird Sisters” of Livingstone's Macbeth series, and illustrated by acclaimed artist Sir Quentin Blake, the bottles have been produced as part of a Scottish Shakespeare series. Aged in Pedro Ximenez cherry barrels that were stored at a distillery on the coast of Islay, one should expect a rich aroma to instantly hit the nostrils when first uncorking this perfectly thematic taste of Scotland’s most famous export.
Lalique “Bacchantes – Sirènes” Edition
For a more elegant touch when it comes to gift giving around Halloween, Lalique, famed for their delicately sculpted crystal vases, has the perfect limited edition range to fit in with the Halloween theme. One may channel their inner Morticia Addams upon receiving the hauntingly beautiful dark crystal “Sirènes” edition of the vase, which is, not unlike the elusive sea creatures themselves, quite elusive to track down.
If one is fortunate enough to locate one of these magnificent copies, they will be rewarded with the sight of sculpted nymph reliefs caught in translucent dark crystal, shadows drawn into glass, almost as if the figures were submerged or emerging from the murky depths of the sea they inhabit. When filled with a bouquet of black orchids or roses, this becomes a statement piece for those few privileged enough to receive such a rare gift on Halloween.
Elie Bleu Humidors
While not Halloween-themed by design, Elie Bleu humidors are perfect for capturing the dense, moody and of course, smoke-tinged environment of a Victorian gothic horror setting. The final piece in any Halloween-themed party puzzle, their walnut, Macassar ebony and exotic wood models are high quality, suitable for custom engraving or adaptation to a darker interior aesthetic, as the mood befits.
Their craftsmanship is impeccable, with the addition of a custom monogram or deep walnut stain, it can truly reflect the tones and moods of the season perfectly. This is a befitting gift for a gentleman that ties in with the Halloween setting, helping transport the recipient to a time far more civilised, yet shrouded in thematic mystique.
“Memento Mori” Skull Amulet Pendant by David Yurman
A profoundly striking gift, this piece is crafted in finely gilded gold, optionally adorned with additional darkened patinas or diamond finishes that emphasise the skull in all of its macabre glory. “Memento Mori” translates from Latin to “Remember that you must die”, and appropriately suits the finely etched detail that has been placed into this skull-centric jewellery, making it an indisputable addition to anyone’s Halloween-themed jewellery collection.
When worn on a fine chain, it hauntingly catches the flicker of candlelight and seamlessly accents against shadow, effortlessly drawing in the attention of others to gaze into the haunting empty sockets of the skull motif. This statement piece goes with the season and beyond, perfect for a darker soul that prefers the comforts of skulls and black amethysts to the brighter tones and shine of pretty stones.
