How to Make Your Own Sugar Skulls

When Veuve Clicquot first came to us with the challenge of creating a chic Day of the Dead party concept, we weren’t quite sure where to start. Flower crowns? Nah. Skull face paint? Too overdone. An abundant buffet? We did it last year. But as soon as our brainstorm ventured over to the holiday’s sugar skull custom, light bulbs started going off. Just like that, the interactive details started falling into place, and if I’m being honest, I’ve probably revisited the finished product three dozen times since we shared it earlier this week. A Dia de los Muertos sugar skull decorating party just might be the kind of gathering I’d consider making an annual tradition.

*photography by Buff Strickland

So today we’re sharing our instructions to the most important party detail: making those sweet little sugar skulls. Before you get started, note that the skulls need to set overnight to completely harden, so plan your prep accordingly. Scroll down for our step-by-step directions, and be sure to check out the full party for the rest of the entertaining tips and tricks!