Lifestyle

A Macabre Mother’s Day Gift Guide

by Jennifer Vasquez9 Comments on A Macabre Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Spooky Mother's Day celebration (Photo credit: Monstera from Pexels)
Spooky Mother’s Day celebration (Photo credit: Monstera from Pexels)

When Mother’s Day rolls around, I see a ton of gift ideas, but sadly, none that resonate with moms who have darker tastes. Well, I decided to set things right and create a gift guide filled with recommendations suited for the macabre parent. Here, you’ll find ghastly items meant to pamper and electrify the Morticia Addams in your life. To all the mommies that are into Halloween, horror, witchcraft, goth and gothic, this is for you.

Note: This list is not exhaustive but will at least give you a good start and serve as a source of sinister inspiration. The article features no affiliate links. I’m simply supplying the URLs to support these small businesses.

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Literature

The Vampira Diaries Book Review

by Jennifer Vasquez12 Comments on The Vampira Diaries Book Review
The Vampira Diaries memorabilia
The Vampira Diaries memorabilia

Before Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, there was Vampira, famously known as the original Glamour Ghoul. Her pale visage, raven-colored locks, crimson lips, and highly arched brows made her quite the image to behold on late-night television. While she’s revered today as an icon in the underground scene, her claim to fame was short-lived during her time. 

In an all-new book called The Vampira Diaries: 1954-1956, author Jonny Coffin gives readers a closer look into the world of the queen of the night. Digging out archives from the grave, he presents a collection of unseen photographs, newspaper clippings and excerpts from her diaries, resurrecting the voice and presence of this dark soul. I recently finished the biography and want to share a bit of what lies on the pages.     

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entertainment, Events, Performing Arts

Dita Von Teese’s Valentine’s Day Burlesque Show

by Jennifer Vasquez10 Comments on Dita Von Teese’s Valentine’s Day Burlesque Show
Vamp Jenn at The Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles
Vamp Jenn at The Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles

It’s been more than two years since the last time I’ve seen Dita Von Teese perform. After her 2019 New Year’s Eve show that ushered the crowd into 2020, she and her crew had to cancel all upcoming performances due to Covid. I’m ecstatic to share that she’s back in action, and her recent Valentine’s Day event marked her return to the stage!

Now, this revue was slated to happen this past December 31st, but the date was pushed back due to world circumstances. I must say, however, I feel February 14th was the perfect occasion for a burlesque extravaganza. Dita was accompanied by her Vontourage, as well as a slew of gifted performers who showcased new and exhilarating acts. Here’s my recap of the soiree.

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Lifestyle

7 Spooky Halloween Wedding Ideas + Interview With Mr. & Mrs. ScaredieCat

by Jennifer Vasquez4 Comments on 7 Spooky Halloween Wedding Ideas + Interview With Mr. & Mrs. ScaredieCat
Photo courtesy of Mrs. and Mr. ScaredieCat Vasquez

Imagine exchanging “I dos” in a haunted mansion or cutting into a black wedding cake decorated with skulls. For those who can’t get enough of the macabre, tying the knot in a spooky-filled way would be a dream (or shall I say nightmare) come true. Well, you’ll be delighted to know that it’s a vision you can make a reality. To commemorate this Valoween, I’m sharing ideas on how couples can throw a darkly enchanting and unholy ceremony, from décor to dress. Plus, I interview newlyweds Mr. and Mrs. ScaredieCat Vasquez about their Halloween nuptials.    

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music

Midnight Syndicate Unravels a Haunting Tale in Latest Album ‘Bloodlines’

by Jennifer Vasquez7 Comments on Midnight Syndicate Unravels a Haunting Tale in Latest Album ‘Bloodlines’
Edward Douglas & Gavin Goszka of Midnight Syndicate
Edward Douglas & Gavin Goszka of Midnight Syndicate (Photo credit: Colleen Douglas)

To usher in last Halloween season, Midnight Syndicate released new music with Bloodlines. Members Edward Douglas and Gavin Goszka continue the story of the enigmatic Haverghast family, which they first introduced in 2001’s Gates of Delirium. The mini-album adds another layer to their narrative and is a prequel to the 2005 recording The 13th Hour. I’ve listened to it several times and the effects are chilling!

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Lifestyle

My Macabre Adventures in 2021: A Year in Review

by Jennifer Vasquez7 Comments on My Macabre Adventures in 2021: A Year in Review
Blogger Jennifer Vasquez of Vamp Jenn's Corner
Vamp Jenn’s Corner

For the first time on Vamp Jenn’s Corner, I’m doing a “Year in Review,” sharing highlights and thoughts on my most memorable experiences. I decided to write a reflection piece on what went on with my blog during 2021 because I’m a very nostalgic individual who frequently revisits the past (for better or worse), and I thought this retrospective could show me how I’ve grown. It’s also a wonderful way to connect with my audience and reminisce with readers. So, let’s proceed down this odd and macabre memory lane.

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entertainment, Events

Enter Delusion: An Immersive Horror Theatre Experience

by Jennifer Vasquez10 Comments on Enter Delusion: An Immersive Horror Theatre Experience
Me at Delusion: Reaper's Remorse at Phillips Mansion
Me at Delusion: Reaper’s Remorse at Phillips Mansion

Have you ever wanted to play a part in a horror story? To experience the thrills and chills of immersing yourself in a twisted plot unfolding right before your eyes? My answer to both questions is “yes,” and I had the chance to have such an experience when I attended Delusion. This attraction is not simply a maze or Halloween haunt. It’s dark theatre that requires guests to do more than just watch—they want them to join in on the action.

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Dining & Drink, entertainment, Events, Nightlife

Welcome to House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soirée

by Jennifer Vasquez5 Comments on Welcome to House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soirée
In front of the giant Ouija Board at House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soiree
At House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soiree

You are cordially invited to take a peek behind the doors of the House of Spirits. It was my first time experiencing this mysteriously macabre event, and I loved every minute of it! As the name states, it is a Haunted Cocktail Soirée, offering a variety of adult libations on the grounds of a beautiful estate—but that’s not all that was offered. The property held secrets only to be revealed to attendees. There were hidden rooms, eerie characters lurking down hallways and magical performances.

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entertainment, Events, Nightlife

My Frightful Time at Universal Studios Hollywood: Halloween Horror Nights

by Jennifer Vasquez8 Comments on My Frightful Time at Universal Studios Hollywood: Halloween Horror Nights
At Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights
At Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights

I kicked off the first weekend of October checking out one of the biggest Halloween events in Los Angeles—Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights. I’ve been going to this event for several years as part of my birthday festivities. However, I didn’t attend the last two years, so it felt good to return! I thought it’d be fun to share some details and photos from that spooky evening.

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Literature

Midnight Light Book Review: A Poetic Exploration of Life & Death

by Jennifer Vasquez2 Comments on Midnight Light Book Review: A Poetic Exploration of Life & Death

“The moon appears in the night sky
Casting our souls into dreams
Endlessly flowing streams of subconscious move over the land”
-Another Perspective

Midnight Light
Image accompanying the poem “Underneath Icicles” in Midnight Light (Photo credit: Brian Paglinco)

Verse and imagery entwine in Midnight Light, a book that illuminates darkness and uncovers life pulsating in the land of the dead. It is the creation of two dear friends—writer Michael Pace and photographer Brian Paglinco—who wanted to share their artistic vision with the world, as well as pay tribute to their enduring friendship. The pages contain a series of gothic-inspired poems and photos that transported me to different time periods and places as I explored the work.

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