I have a strong interest in understanding when pieces were made, which commercial firms actually produced items, and what marks were used through the decades. With the alarming level of reproductions and fantasy pieces on today's market, education - not merely trust - will steer you to safer harbors. Because of my strong inclination for research and understanding the changing nature of Halloween design over time, I was dubbed "The Dean of Halloween" by a prominent writer in the collectibles field. (I have to admit I rather like this bestowal!)

I've been fortunate to have my collection profiled in the media many times. Print profiles have appeared in Country Home, Mary Engelbreit's Home Companion, Celebrate365, Country Sampler, Country Living, The Antique Trader and Toy Shop, etc. as well as numerous newspapers throughout the United States and Canada. Barb Crews wrote two swell profiles in her redoubtable About.com e-column. The collection was also shown on Home and Garden Television’s (HGTV's) nationally broadcast show, Collectible Treasures, in July of 2003. Pieces from the collection, as well as my comments on the hobby overall, appeared on the PBS series, Antiques Roadshow FYI, in early May of 2005. I am also the credited official advisor for the vintage Halloween section of the brand-new 41st edition of the Warman's Antiques & Collectibles 2008 Price Guide edited by Schroy and Schmidt.

Given my proclivities for true research, I am quite excited about the opportunity to have published a greatly expanded and fully revised second edition of the collector's reference book I wrote on vintage Halloween memorabilia called, Vintage Halloween Collectibles: An Identification and Price Guide. The first edition was released by Krause Publications in June 2003 and has been so well received in the marketplace that it is fair to say it has become the standard reference for this wonderful hobby. The second edition was released in June 2007. (Click on the "Get MBL's Book" bar in the navigation section of this website for more information.)

Halloween collectors are among the nicest group of people I know. I have met scores of interesting and enthusiastic collectors, and have been fortunate to have been given access to their collections. In turn, I enjoy sharing my knowledge with other collectors, and encourage you to contact me with any questions or comments you might have. For a list of frequently asked questions, please go to the FAQ section of the website.

I do sell vintage Halloween pieces privately as well as through the Ebay venue. My Ebay handle is marlede. If you are looking to acquire a specific item, let me know.