We've been asking ourselves some of these questions for quite a while...
Hi! We're Paul and Sarah. Sometimes we get asked about the hows and whys of putting in all this effort for just one day a year. So, in case you're the curious type, here goes...
How long does it take you to put all this together every year?
This varies by year. We've ramped up around weekends and (sometimes) toned it back down for mid-weeks. Usually the ideas are in development for several months or more as we determine the theme, prop needs, audio, scripting and so on. (Think the Mayor of Halloween Town who comes on November 1 to present Jack with the plans for next year.)
How do you come up with these ideas?
From right inside our twisted little brains, which are filled with classic films, music, art, theater, culture and numerous trips to frightful attractions, such as Universal's Halloween Horror Nights or Disneyland's Haunted Mansion Holiday.
You'll find various backstories and sometimes subtle references in each year's recap, plus discover some of our biggest influences on our Inspiration page.
Who's responsible for what? (This question takes various forms.)
This is a joint spousal project (married since twenty ott one). And although he's compared us to Lennon and McCartney (not sure who's who) with the occasional "creative disagreement," these things tend to come together beautifully.
Overall, he does a lot of the big set work and any specialized music, while she handles much of the writing, treat package design and site updates.
Together we create the theme and overall look and feel of each year, tying together scripting, costumes, props, lighting and sound for a unique experience.
Where do you get all the sets and props?
We love to scavenge and recycle whatever we can, and a lot of things are used and reused year after year in different forms. We've also been known to borrow an item or two. We typically do the art and design of our own sets, on down to writing on the garage wall.
Best shopping days of the year? November 1-2+ for all the Halloween discounts.
Where did you get those treats?
Many of our special treats, especially for specifically themed bags, are purchased from Oriental Trading or local party supply stores and other shops with special seasonal selections. Sam's Club is also quite useful for bulk candy, as we now create a minimum of 100 treat bags a year. (Historically, leftovers went to our church youngsters, friends and fans who couldn't make it out, although extras are getting difficult to come by.)
What age is this for?
Come one, come all! Don't be shy. We're not big fans of leaving anyone out, so we design our antics for all ages. If it's potentially too scary, we'll modify for the little ones, and we love giving teens a good fright if they like. Adults might notice some "Easter egg" references more familiar to them. And anyone can grab a treat. After all, we made 'em to give away.
Is there a charge? Do you collect for charity?
Seems fair to say "the Gospel is free, so should Halloween be." No charge to wander by here, and we've never used Halloween to collect for a cause. (But, I mean, if you're feeling generous and really WANT to give something on our behalf, we'd gladly direct you to The Covering House, One Heart Family Ministries or Mission: St. Louis, as a few fantastic local organizations.)
Why rubber duckies?
Who doesn't like a rubber duck?
Truth be told, we really love birds. And, though we didn't start here, turns out these ducks have sometimes fit our themes quite well. Otherwise, there's always a duck in a Halloween costume to be found.
What exactly do you do?
That depends on the circumstances. Oh, you mean for work. He's a musician, magician and teacher of both. (Yes, you can take lessons from The Showman!) She's a long time church office manager (seriously) with a background in writing, layout and design. We both dig theatrics and performance, his including sleight of hand and hers vocals, on the side.
Do you have any kids?
Well, none of our own. But for one night a year we do get everyone else's. Hehehe.
Wait, so you're Christian?
Indeed, and very grateful for Jesus' attributes and gifts of creativity, generosity and hospitality. Halloween actually provides a rare opportunity to share all of those with lots of neighbors and friends, which is pretty cool. Plus, it's fun to consider how His story can be shared from any other, and how it affects our own.
Thanks for checking out our antics, and happy Halloween!
