We here at Cooking Channel love a good party. But throwing a memorable event requires more than just gathering some food and drinks. We show you how, with just five main “ingredients” (including recipes, big-impact decorating ideas and easy DIY elements), you can throw a party that feels like it has a cohesive theme — minimal work required.

Between figuring out the perfect costume, tending to needy trick-or-treaters and fulfilling regular party-planning duties, hosting a Halloween party can often feel terrifying...and not in that thrilling horror movie way. For this year’s festivities, try putting together a cocktail party that minimizes hosting stress, while still offering guests a night to remember. This voodoo-inspired bash relies on inexpensive, easy-to-find materials to set the ultra-spooky scene and a fuss-free, self-serve menu.

To host your own adults-only Halloween cocktail party, you’ll need five essential ingredients:

Click here to see the party brought to life, and get tips for hosting your own voodoo-themed Halloween party.

Set the scene by layering textural fabrics on the buffet table and backdrop. Play around with draping natural textiles like linen, burlap and jute, and combine them with tribal prints and dark, tattered fabric. To really give the bar a voodoo feel, fill glass containers to imitate potion bottles for an exotic element that’s inexpensive and easy to assemble. Add the glow of votive candles and realistic skeleton bones, and your party space is instantly transformed into a creepy voodoo lair.

A simple spread of inspired refreshments can make a world of difference when it comes to your day-of responsibilities. To get the recipes from this party’s menu and tips on making both the voodoo cookies and clever (and practical) herb boo-quet favors, click here.

Get more Halloween party recipes, creepy cocktail and homemade treat ideas here.

Camille Styles is the founder and editor of the lifestyle blog camillestyles.com, where she shares creative enterta ining ideas for parties and everyday life. She also owns Camille Styles Events, a design and planning firm that transforms ordinary events into extraordinary experiences.