Step1
Choose your guests and then choose a theme that best fits your selection of guests! For a wild & crazy bunch - go for a '70s disco party. For a more subdued and professional crowd...select a haunted mansion theme. There are tons of awesome themes out there and one of the best sites in the world is 'My Mystery Party.' So, once you've chosen your mystery party, assign your guests to the characters in the mystery that you choose.
Step2
Send out the invitations about 2 weeks in advance. Make sure to check your RSVP list with the required character list. 'My Mystery Party' provides free printable invitations for all mystery parties.
Step3
Decorate your home in the theme of the party. For example, if you are having a '80s party, put '80s themed posters on the wall and use colorful balloons and crepe paper for decor. Play a '80s mix softly in the background and play 'Pretty in Pink' or other '80s movie on the television without the sound. Design your menu for the night and give the food & drink items fun '80s names such as 'The Legwarmer' or 'The Atari Smasher.'
Step4
As the guests arrive at the party, take their picture's individually and serve cocktails and appetizers in the theme of the party. If your guests took the time and effort to dress up in costume - it is your obligation to make sure everyone is photographed! Hand them the guest instructions for the mystery party that should include a mystery synopsis, character list and an overview on how to play a mystery party.
Step5
Once the guests have arrived - take a group photo. You will need a camera with a timer - or ask a neighbor, teen, etc. Everyone will want a copy of this photo after the party...I promise! Go over the general instructions of the mystery party and answer any questions the guests have. Then, remind them all to stay in their respective characters for the rest of the party. Pass out the clue card envelopes for round one to start the mystery.
Step6
The 'My Mystery Party' games typically begin with an ice breaker like trivia questions or riddles within the theme of the mystery. With any game, the guests are to commence the mystery by stepping into their respective roles and using the information provided in the clue cards to discuss issues with the other guests. Just like in real life, the guests will mingle, get acquainted and of course...gossip about the other characters! This round sets up the characters and their motives. With some games, such as My Mystery Party, there will be bonus games within the theme of the mystery. It is highly suggested to play these as they add a lot of fun & excitement to the party!
Step7
Once everyone has discussed the clues on their clue cards, round two begins by the host passing out the round two clue card envelopes. At this time, dinner is served. Typically, the murder occurs during this round and the investigation is to begin immediately after dinner. The guests will investigate the mystery by interrogating each other, examining evidence and talking about it with other characters. At the end of this round, each guest will turn in their guesses of whodunit to the host!
Step8
Round three begins by the guests accusing who they believe the murderer is. After the accusations are made, the round three clue cards can be handed out along with coffee and dessert. One by one, the guests should reveal their involvement in the murder - if any - by reading the solution on their clue cards...and the murderer will confess! Some games, such as with 'My Mystery Party' games, will have a finale bonus game within the theme of the mystery - such as charades. This is a hilarious way to cap off the night!
Mystery Princess
Novice 
Comments
MysteryPrincess said
on 5/19/2008 My Mystery Party at www.MyMysteryParty.com is your one stop shop for all of your mystery party needs!