In Europe, you’ll find some incredible graveyards—and of course, there’s New Orleans. You can visit and even dine with friends and loved ones there. It’s a rather romantic spot, if you’re into that sort of thing.
What new projects are you excited about in the coming year?
I just released a children’s book called “Elvira’s First Book of Monsters.” It turned out even better than I imagined—it’s absolutely adorable. The book glows in the dark and features artwork by a talented Spanish artist named Pintachan. I wrote all the text and little rhyming verses, introducing young kids to Dracula, Frankenstein, the Mummy, and other classic characters in a friendly, non-scary way.
I was a pretty creepy kid myself, so I would have loved a book like that.
Me too! I wish we’d known each other back then, because everyone thought I was creepy and kept their distance. I really got into horror as a child.
Do you have any rituals to get into character as Elvira?
Yes, everything has to be arranged in a specific way. I know I have an hour and a half to do my makeup, and I need to have everything within easy reach. I also need music—something wild and loud, like metal. That’s my little routine. Oh, and I drink a lot of caffeine.
How do you differentiate between Elvira and Cassandra? Does that line ever get blurry?
Not really. It did at first, but now I have a clear sense of who I am. Initially, it was hard to figure out how much of myself to put into the character and how much of the character to bring into my own life. When I go out as myself, do I wear all black? Do I try to be Elvira, or do I keep them separate? I decided to keep them apart, and it’s been wonderful because it allowed me to stay mostly anonymous, which was a real blessing. Now that I’m writing books and appearing in public as myself, that anonymity is gone.
This conversation has been edited and condensed.
“Elvira’s Cookbook from Hell: Sexy, Spooky Soirées and Celebrations for Every Occasion” is available for $30 on Bookshop and will be released on September 30.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful FAQs about Elviras Tips for Hosting a Spooky Soiree
General Beginner Questions
Q What exactly is a Spooky Soiree
A Its a stylish and fun Halloween party that focuses on creating a chilling yet sophisticated atmosphere rather than just being scary
Q Im new to hosting Where should I start
A Start by picking a core theme This will make all your other decisions about decorations food and music much easier
Q Whats the most important element for setting the mood
A Lighting Ditch the bright overhead lights Use string lights candles and colored light bulbs to create dark dramatic shadows
Q What kind of music should I play
A Create a playlist with classic horror movie scores eerie instrumental music and spooky classics like Monster Mash or Thriller to keep the energy up
Q Do I have to spend a lot of money on decorations
A Not at all Get creative with cheap cheesecloth for ghostly cobwebs print out oldfashioned creepy portraits and use items you already have like jars and bottles to create potion displays
Food Drink
Q What are some easy but creepy food ideas
A Give normal food a spooky name Call pigs in a blanket Mummy Fingers layer a dip to look like Dirt Pudding with gummy worms or serve peeled grapes as Eyeballs
Q How can I make a signature cocktail for the party
A Use a clear spirit like vodka or gin and add colorful mixers A blackberry syrup can make a Blood Potion or you can add dry ice for a smoking cauldron effect
Q What if some of my guests dont drink alcohol
A Always have a mocktail option You can make the same signature drink without the alcohol and give it a fun name like Ghostly Gulp or Witchs Brew
Atmosphere Activities
Q How can I make my party more interactive
A Set up a simple photo booth with props like fangs hats and