For my husband’s 40th birthday, I decided to throw him a murder mystery party based on his favorite movie (based on the hit board game) Clue. The theme was a glamorous old Hollywood whodunnit.
There are many ways of throwing a mystery party, and multiple kits available online. As this was my first murder mystery party, I decided we needed a little expert direction, so I enlisted the help of the Murder Mystery Company. This was great because they handled every aspect of the actual murder mystery part. Their “Perfect Crime” party package came with 4 professional actors to engage the guests in a 2 hour interactive show. They brought all the props, clues, and even a sound system. Everyone got to participate and it was SO much fun!
How this worked. For the first half hour or so, the actors (in costume and in character) mingled with the guests and got to know everyone. They then choose some members of the audience to play suspects, and everyone else got to be a detective. Nobody knew who the killer was all the way up to the end of the show. My friend who ended up being the killer was as surprised as everyone else to learn that it was her haha.
Watch the Reel
The Murder
The detectives divided up into teams to solve the mystery.
The Decor
Next onto my favorite part of any party – decorating! For this party, I went all out with the balloons and decor. Since the invitation said black tie as per the Murder Mystery Company’s suggestion, I wanted the space to feel super glamorous and black tie worthy.
I LOVE a good balloon garland. I feel like they have such a big impact without having to do much else. These balloon arrangements were created by Pop Park City. They did a truly incredible job. Sara took my black, white, and gold color scheme and went above and beyond in interpreting my vision. Her arrangement with the different shades of champagne and creams, and the addition of the marbled balloons were *chef’s kiss*.
I also added a light-up marquee #40 from Alpha-Lit.
I also DIYed these ostrich feather centerpieces and placed them on every surface. They were super easy to make and had a great effect, especially all lit up with these mini battery operated spot lights.
I tried my best to create a “fancy” spread – deviled eggs, shrimp cocktail, charcuterie etc. But yes, that is in fact a lazy suzan containing the fruit.
A Martinelli’s tower 😉
Prizes were awarded at the end. Everyone got so into character, it was hard to pick a winner!