As Halloween draws ever nearer, people begin planning their costumes, kids discuss their trick-or-treat ideas and nightclubs prepare for an influx of masks and creepy clothes.

Most importantly, people begin to plan their Halloween parties.

However, many adults find it difficult to plan Halloween parties for their peers – ideas may seem childish or immature. We suggest embracing the fun and games of childhood Halloween experiences, while bringing elements of sophistication into the mix. Consider letting your guests know that you’d like them to join you for the occasion with Halloween Party Invitations that suggest a classy event, such as this one.

Be sure to let your friends know if you expect them to dress up, and consider letting them know that there will be a prize for the best dressed. If you’re throwing a large party, you may wish to award prizes in multiple categories, such as best couples costume, scariest outfit, and most original.

Try making fun alcoholic drinks, such as vodka gummy worms, shots served in test tubes or layered, candy corn coloured jelly shots. Red wine is always an excellent option, as it’s a simple task to cover the bottle’s label with a homemade sticker declaring it to be ‘blood.’ Be sure to have options for teetotallers and designated drivers, such as non-alcoholic themed cocktails.

There are a wide range of scary snacks, although it can often be difficult to make them look elegant. If you’re looking for something truly classy but a little bit creepy, wasabi caviar is bright green, delicious, and exceptionally sophisticated. At the other end of the scale, spider web cupcakes always go down well, as do other Halloween staples, such as toffee apples. Looking for a more unique idea? Carve a face on a small pumpkin, and arrange dips for crisps so that it looks like the jack-o'-lantern is vomiting salsa and guacamole. It may be gruesome, but it truly fits with the theme.

Finally, try adding a splash of childlike fun to your party: include traditional Halloween games such as bobbing for apples, pin the nose on the witch and the piñata game. Your guests are unlikely to have played these games as adults, and are sure to love them!