Host your own murder mystery: how to plan your own crime night
Hosting your own murder mystery is an entertaining and thrilling way to spend an evening with friends or family. With the right story, a fitting menu and a little preparation, you can turn your home into the scene of a gripping murder case. No prior knowledge is needed. We show you step by step what matters.
Choosing the right story
It all starts with choosing the right story. At Culinario Mortale you will find a range of themes and settings – from a mysterious murder case on the high seas to a thrilling adventure in the rainforest. Our cases have been tested many times over and rated five stars by our customers. They contain everything you need, including matching recipe ideas, decoration tips and costume suggestions.
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Assigning the roles
In the manual you will find an overview of all the characters with their traits and secrets. The roles can be assigned entirely flexibly – you decide amongst yourselves who slips into whose skin. And don't worry: a self-hosted murder mystery is a game with no 'right' and no 'wrong'. Everyone plays their role however they enjoy it most – and that is exactly what makes for the best surprises of the evening.
Setting the right scene
Decoration
The atmosphere makes up a big part of the murder mystery. With candles and dimmable lights you can conjure up a mysterious mood in no time. On our Pinterest boards you will find plenty of DIY ideas to decorate your rooms to match the case.
The menu
Food is an important part of every murder mystery and adds to the mood of the evening. Put together a menu that fits the theme of your case – whether a multi-course dinner, a relaxed buffet or finger food such as Vietnamese spring rolls, burgers, fajitas or tacos.
Costumes
Nobody has to dress up for a murder mystery – but with a costume it is twice the fun. Matching outfits and accessories let your guests sink even deeper into their roles and make for unforgettable photos.
Music
The right music helps set the mood and underscores every scene of the evening. On Spotify we have put together playlists that are a perfect match for your murder mystery.
Decoration
The atmosphere makes up a big part of the murder mystery. With candles and dimmable lights you can conjure up a mysterious mood in no time. On our Pinterest boards you will find plenty of DIY ideas to decorate your rooms to match the case.
The menu
Food is an important part of every murder mystery and adds to the mood of the evening. Put together a menu that fits the theme of your case – whether a multi-course dinner, a relaxed buffet or finger food such as Vietnamese spring rolls, burgers, fajitas or tacos.
Costumes
Nobody has to dress up for a murder mystery – but with a costume it is twice the fun. Matching outfits and accessories let your guests sink even deeper into their roles and make for unforgettable photos.
Music
The right music helps set the mood and underscores every scene of the evening. On Spotify we have put together playlists that are a perfect match for your murder mystery.
How the evening unfolds
Roughly plan the evening in advance so the murder mystery runs smoothly. Start with a welcome drink and a short introduction to the story. Then give your guests enough time to get to know their roles and settle into the plot. From there, the case unfolds all by itself – from the first accusation to the final reveal.
Preparation and group size
A murder mystery can be run with groups of different sizes – you will find the exact number of players listed with each case. Ideally, prepare the name tags, role booklets and decoration in advance and split the tasks among your co-organisers. That leaves plenty of time on the night itself to enjoy the game to the full.
Tips for a successful evening
It helps to have someone who guides the evening with a light touch and makes sure everything runs smoothly. Also, don't forget to take plenty of photos to capture the memories. And the most important tip of all: relax and have fun – then your self-hosted murder mystery is guaranteed to be a success.
Conclusion
Hosting your own murder mystery is a wonderful way to spend time with friends or family. With a gripping story, good food and the right dose of playfulness, it becomes an evening people will talk about for a long time. On our website you will also find recipes, playlists and plenty of inspiration to make your murder mystery even more authentic.
Making memories
Don’t forget to take photos to capture the memories of this special evening.
… Thanks for the photo, Paulina and Kuba!