While many of us know spooky season has officially arrived when giant skeletons take over the front lawn along Abercorn, at Telma Ziulpa's Ardsley Park home, the Halloween magic doesn’t stop at the front door. Inside, a sophisticated haunted Victorian theme blends historic Savannah charm with high-concept Halloween fun, creating a space that is as cozy and enchanting as it is spooky.

For Telma, Halloween isn’t simply a holiday, it’s a tradition and a creative outlet, and one of the most anticipated times of year. “We go all out every year,” she says. With an estimated 300 to 350 trick-or-treaters visiting her home each Halloween, there’s plenty of motivation to make the experience memorable.

The transformation takes about a week, depending on the scope of the display and any DIY projects along the way. Telma enjoys combining purchased pieces with handmade touches, allowing the décor to feel collected and personal rather than perfectly coordinated. Home Depot is one of her favorite stops for outdoor finds, while inside, she works spooky pieces into her everyday décor. This year, she even found a creative new purpose for her wedding cake stand, incorporating it into the Halloween display.

Inside, the details create an atmospheric vintage haunt. Floating candles illuminate a moody floral garland above the white mantel, while draped, jeweled skeleton hostesses lounge stylishly on dining chairs. It’s spooky, but with an unexpected elegance.

The mantel is Telma’s favorite spot—and for good reason.

“It’s my favorite spot for having coffee,” she says. “It’s spooky and somehow romantic and cozy feeling all at the same time.”

That balance extends outdoors, where Telma intentionally takes a slightly softer approach. While she embraces the spooky side of Halloween inside, she keeps her outdoor décor from becoming too frightening for the neighborhood’s youngest visitors. After all, hundreds of little ghosts, witches, superheroes and other costumed characters will soon be making their way to her doorstep.

The kids, in particular, have become fans of Telma’s skeletons—and they aren’t always ready to say goodbye when Halloween is over. Knowing how much the children enjoy them, Telma tries to set everything up early so they can get as much enjoyment from the display as possible.

For Telma, the decorations may create the backdrop, but the real magic comes from sharing them with the neighborhood. Whether admiring the elegant haunted Victorian interior or stopping by for a favorite skeleton photo-op, Ardsley Park’s Halloween visitors are sure to find a little spooky—and a whole lot of fun.