by Mary Lee Ferrin
Try to plan your event at least 2 weeks in advance. You can throw a last minute party, but things will be much less stressful with careful planning.

Before sending out the Invitations it is a very good idea to call or email your guests. Tell them about your party including theme, date & time. Inform them that due to the nature of murder mystery games you need a definite R.S.V.P. before assigning characters. Let your guests know that when they confirm you are counting on them to attend.

When it comes to food easier is better. I have thrown murder mystery parties where I did all of the cooking and it made for a very stressful day and party. Unless you can have your party catered, the easiest menu is done potluck. The first time I decided to do this I worried about what my guests would think, but to my surprise they loved the idea. It gives them a chance to contribute to the party and show off their culinary skills. Just about everyone has a special dish that they excel at. If not there are always needed items that don’t require cooking skills. Drinks, ice, cups etc…
After the solution has been read it is always fun to go around the room and let each character reveal their secrets. Your guests will be amazed at what they didn’t know was going on under their noses.

This tip isn’t necessary but I have found it adds a fun element to a murder mystery party. If your party utilizes game money I ask guests to also bring a small inexpensive item. I also cruise the dollar store and spend about $30 on small, unique items. For my last party I bought butterfly houses, wind chimes, scented candles unique picture frames and other items. After the party ended we held an auction with all the items. Guests used their play money winnings to bid and purchase items.

Everyone left with a small remembrance in addition to a smile on his or her face.

Using this advice your next party is sure to be one people will talk about for weeks. So be brave. Plan a party your guests will be DYING to attend!

Written by Mary Lee Ferrin owner and writer of Dinner and a Murder Mystery Games. Visit our web site at Dinner & A Murder to learn more.