After 14 long years working in the Capitol, this was surprisingly the very first Halloween celebration where employees’ kids were officially invited for Trick or Treat, and it truly felt refreshing. For one whole afternoon, the energy in the hallways shifted. Our usual work-focused environment was suddenly filled with laughter, tiny footsteps, and the joyful excitement of children holding their candy bags tightly as they went from door to door. It was like seeing the Capitol in a completely different lens, it’s softer, lighter, and more alive.
We also joined the Door Décor Contest, and yes, our office joined under my lead. I really challenged myself to keep it simple, creative, and practical. Instead of buying extravagant decorations, We used whatever we could find, repurposing materials and assembling it with intention. Even though it wasn’t over-the-top or full of dramatic props, it still gave off the eerie vibe we wanted, and I’m proud of how it turned out because it was authentic, resourceful, and truly “us.”
Another highlight of the day was the costume moment. For the longest time in my previous Halloween experiences outside work, I always chose the pretty fairy, princess, angel, or something sparkly and charming. This time, I decided to step away from that comfort zone and go full scary. I did my own makeup inspired by “The Weeping Bride”, but in a black dress instead of white. I experimented with pale skin, smudged dark lips, hollow-looking eyes, and a more intense expression. My daughter also went bold, dressed as a killer clown, and honestly, she looked even more terrifying than I did! It was such a fun bonding moment, and seeing her confidently embrace her character made me smile. My daughter will always be a baby fore me even if she’s already as tall as her mommy.
There was also a Best in Individual Costume competition for employees, and imagine this: more than 100 contestants! With that many participants, the creativity, commitment, and horror levels were on a whole other level. I didn’t make it to the top, obviously, there were so many more elaborate, terrifying entries, but I’m proud because I showed up, I tried something new, and I enjoyed the process.
This first ever Halloween in the Capitol felt like the beginning of a new tradition, one that brings families together and adds color to our workplace culture.
Special thanks to Governor Pam for allowing us this kind of fun ☺️ indeed, it’s more fun in Capitol now. 🎃✨