A Killer New Year's Eve
Facts of the case
Ring in the new year with a night of murder and merriment at an exclusive Bel Air holiday party!
This brand-new mystery will be released soon.
Guest Info
More on who is coming to the party and how you are all related…
Regina Baxter– Tech Mogul. This powerful, self-built millionaire knows a thing or two about risk assessment… and when to jump ship.
Benjamin Baxter – Stockbroker. Male. While investments and have made millions for this mogul, Benjamin’s future may be in jeopardy due to the legitimacy of their practices.
Lucinda Lewis – Doctor. A leading oncologist, Lucinda’s long hours at the hospital have caused problems for more than her husband.
Gordon Lewis – Retired Golf Pro. Living his best retired life, Gordon isn’t sure if he attracts friends with drama or is the cause of it.
Thomas Brown – District Attorney. Self-righteous and unassuming, this D.A. will not hesitate to prosecute the rich and greedy. Or as some know them, Bel Air’s finest.
Lindsey Brown – Real Estate Guru. A mother of two highly successful children, Lindsey has done more for her children than others give her credit for.
Theo Morgan – Investment Broker. Caught between his family and his friends, Theo is not sure who he can trust anymore.
Patricia Morgan – Socialite. With Miranda’s body being uncovered, Patricia has some answers, but not the ones she had hoped for.
Kelly Luccini – Actor. The silver screen has missed their beauty while they await trial on charges of bribery. With no intention of settling, it looks like Kelly will have their fate decided in court.
Gorgio Luccini – Fashion Designer. The brains behind the plan, this fashion guru is a master designer at more than just clothes.
Shayne Williams – Actor. This Hollywood star is known to take accountability for their crimes, and will make sure others do, too.
Sandy Lloyd – Defense Attorney. Gunning for the district attorney position, Sandy is ready to promote anyone who will help them win!
Kris Perez – Agent. After catapulting their child to celebrity status, Kris is always looking for ways to promote Avery’s popularity. At any cost.
Brent Brown – Lawyer. Following his father’s career path, Brent has chosen private practice over being a public servant – and hopes to make partner soon!
Becky Brown – Housewife. A bit of an outcast, marrying into the Brown family did not get Becky the acceptance she desired. The question is, how far will Becky go to gain it?
Charlie Morgan. – Lawyer. Still holding resentment from high school, both in competition and in love lost. Will Charlie ever get his retribution?
Hayley Brown – Professional Basketball Player. Not always the star of the team, Hayley’s success comes from hard work and taking advantage of the opportunities she has been given in life.
Avery Perez – Reality Star. Bounded to stardom overnight, Avery has learned to exploit all opportunities to increase their popularity. And if they can make money at it, all the better.
Billie Luccini –Influencer. A silenced influencer, Billie is tired of sacrificing their own career to protect their parents’ future.
Hunter Luccini – College Hopeful. Sidelined by their parent’s actions, all Hunter wants to do is get admitted to college. Any. Way. Possible.
Costumes
Costume Gallery
Costuming Ideas for a New Year's Eve Murder Mystery Game
WHAT TO WEAR:
- Anything to show wealth –
- gold cane
- expensive jewelry
- mink stolls
- fur coats
- feather boas
- watch piece
- Suit with jacket
- Bow tie
- Top hat
- Money tucked into places, like lapel, hatband, etc.
- Cuff links
- Ball gowns
- A cane
ADD TO ANY OUTFIT:
- Boas
- Wigs (think any variety)
- Facial hair
- BLING!
- Gold or silver accessories of any type
- Fancy headress
- Cigarette extension holders
- Props of any sort!
- LARGE hats
- Fake eyelashes
- Fake breasts
- A fake weapon of some sort – exposed or not
Decoration Ideas
How to deck out your Mystery Manor for the Memorial.
Creating Your Entrance
Creating an Entrance
Here are some ideas to create a thrilling entrance for your Bel Air holiday murder mystery party:
Red Carpet Arrival: Enhance the glamour by having a red carpet leading up to the entrance. Arrange for faux paparazzi or enthusiastic “fans” to take photos and greet guests as they arrive.
Customized Hollywood Sign: Create a personalized Hollywood-style sign for the event. It could say “Bel Air’s Mysterious New Year’s Bash” or something in line with your murder mystery theme. Place it prominently in the front yard to welcome guests.
Paparazzi Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth area with props like oversized sunglasses, feather boas, and fake microphones for guests to take ‘celebrity’ photos as they enter. You could even have a backdrop resembling a famous Hollywood landmark.
Costume Contest: Encourage guests to dress as famous Hollywood stars, classic movie characters, or in elegant evening attire. Consider having a red carpet awards segment later in the party to showcase the best-dressed guests.
Secret Password or Clue Entry: Make the entrance interactive by requiring guests to provide a secret password or solve a simple riddle or clue to gain entry. It adds a touch of mystery right from the start.
Butler/Greeter in Character: Have a butler or a greeter dressed in character, welcoming guests with a mysterious air. They could hand out character name tags or envelopes with initial clues for the murder mystery.
Themed Music and Lighting: Set the ambiance with Hollywood-themed music playing softly in the background. Use lighting effects, like spotlights or colored lights, to add to the glamorous atmosphere.
Champagne Reception: Offer guests a glass of champagne or a signature cocktail upon arrival. Consider serving drinks in fancy glasses with decorative stirrers or themed napkins.
Interactive Entryway Decor: Decorate the entrance with elements that foreshadow the mystery. For example, use crime scene tape or silhouettes to hint at the intrigue awaiting inside.
Welcome Speech or Announcement: Begin the event with a grand welcome speech or announcement, setting the tone for the mystery and introducing the main storyline to kick off the evening’s intrigue.
Combine these ideas to create a memorable and immersive entrance experience that sets the stage for an unforgettable Bel Air holiday murder mystery party!
Inside the Party Space
Inside the Party Space
Here are some inside-the-party ideas to further enhance the Bel-Air themed murder mystery setting:
Art Gallery Setup: Use the printed frames and artwork to create a faux art gallery within the venue. Set up easels or stands for the artwork, and use the small placards to provide descriptions and faux artist names for added authenticity.
Gilded Decor: Continue the gold theme indoors by spray-painting various items like wine bottles, candlesticks, vases, and even some furniture with gold paint. This adds an opulent touch to the setting, fitting for a Bel-Air mansion.
Abandoned Manor Vibes: Cover furniture with white sheets to give the impression of an abandoned, unused mansion. Add dust covers or slightly disheveled arrangements to reinforce the sense of mystery and neglect.
Mysterious Décor Accents: Place the statue of a person holding a sword in a prominent spot, perhaps near the “crime scene.” Utilize the wall with pictures by hanging portraits of fictional characters or old portraits from different eras to create an air of history and intrigue.
Fireplace Ambiance: Use the fireplace as a focal point by draping a black curtain over it. Add flickering LED candles or a faux fire effect for a haunting yet sophisticated touch.
Eerie Centerpieces: Incorporate the vase of dead flowers as a centerpiece, possibly on a dining table or in a key room. Mix in other eerie elements like antique candelabras or vintage figurines for added ambiance.
Crime Scene Setup: Create a detailed “scene of the crime” area. Use crime scene tape to cordon it off, have a taped outline on the floor, and scatter fake evidence strategically. You could place a bloodstain (fake, of course) to intensify the mystery.
In-character Actors or Hosts: Have hosts or actors play the roles of suspects or key characters from the murder mystery. They can interact with guests, drop clues, and keep the intrigue alive throughout the party.
Mood Lighting and Sound Effects: Utilize dim lighting, particularly in specific areas, to create a mysterious atmosphere. Consider playing eerie background music or subtle sound effects, like creaking doors or distant whispers, to heighten the suspense.
Interactive Clue Stations: Set up stations with puzzles, cryptic messages, or clues related to the mystery. This allows guests to engage further with the storyline and solve mini-mysteries within the larger plot.
By blending these elements, you’ll create an immersive Bel-Air themed murder mystery party, captivating guests in a world of suspense, intrigue, and glamor.
Setting the Table
Setting the Table
Absolutely, setting the table for a Bel Air-themed murder mystery party requires a blend of elegance, sophistication, and a hint of mystery. Here are some ideas to elevate your table setting:
Tableware and Settings:
- Fine China or Vintage Dinnerware: Use ornate or vintage-style dinner plates, preferably with intricate designs or delicate patterns, to exude elegance.
- Silver or Gold Cutlery: Set the table with polished silver or gold-toned cutlery to enhance the upscale atmosphere.
- Crystal Glassware: Choose crystal glasses or goblets to add a touch of refinement to each place setting.
- Linen Napkins: Fold linen napkins elegantly and place them either on the dinner plates or beside the cutlery.
Centerpieces and Table Decor:
- Candelabras or Candles: Place ornate candelabras or tall candlesticks as the centerpiece to create an air of grandeur. Alternatively, use clusters of candles in varying heights for an enchanting effect.
- Floral Arrangements: Opt for floral arrangements with white roses, orchids, or other luxurious flowers, arranged in vintage-style vases or silver/gold containers.
- Mirrored or Lace Table Runners: Lay a mirrored table runner or lace runner down the center of the table for a touch of glamour and sophistication.
Additional Accents:
- Place Cards: Create elegant place cards with guests’ names written in calligraphy to indicate seating arrangements.
- Themed Props: Incorporate thematic elements such as magnifying glasses, vintage keys, or miniature detective figurines as decorative accents at each place setting.
- Feather Boas or Fabric Swirls: Drape feather boas or swaths of luxurious fabric around the backs of chairs for added opulence.
- Name Tags or Character Props: If it’s a murder mystery party with specific roles, provide name tags or props related to the characters for guests to immerse themselves further.
Lighting:
- Subtle Table Lighting: Ensure the table lighting is subtle enough to allow candles or centerpieces to shine without overpowering them. Dimmer switches could be handy for controlling the brightness.
- Tea Lights or Mini Lanterns: Place small tea lights or mini lanterns interspersed among the centerpieces or as additional accents on the table for a gentle, mysterious glow.
Overall Ambiance:
- Music: Set the mood with soft, jazzy tunes or classical music playing in the background to maintain an air of sophistication.
- Dim Lighting: If possible, adjust the room’s lighting to a dimmer setting to enhance the atmosphere.
A Bel Air-themed murder mystery party’s table setting should reflect the elegance of the era while incorporating elements that hint at the mysterious nature of the event. Enjoy setting the scene for an unforgettable evening of intrigue and suspense!
Lighting
Lighting
For a Bel-air themed murder mystery party, you’ll want to create an ambiance that exudes sophistication and mystery while embracing the allure of an eerie atmosphere. Here are some lighting ideas that could enhance the setting:
Entrance and Welcome Area:
- Candelabras on Pedestals:Position ornate candelabras at the entrance, casting flickering shadows and setting the tone as guests arrive.
- White Paper Lanterns with Dimmed Lighting: Hang a few white paper lanterns strategically around the entrance area for a subtle, mysterious glow.
Main Party Area:
- Chandeliers with Dimmers: Use dimmable chandeliers to control the brightness and create a sense of drama and suspense. Add flickering bulbs or candles for an eerie effect.
- Tea Light Arrangements: Scatter tea lights on mirrored surfaces or within glass containers filled with water to reflect light and create an intriguing visual display.
- Twinkling Lights in Strategic Places: Drape white twinkling lights along banisters, around door frames, or on pillars to add a whimsical yet haunting touch.
Dining Area:
- Candles as Centerpieces: Place elegant candle arrangements or candelabras as centerpieces on dining tables. Use varying heights for visual interest.
- Dimmed Overhead Lighting: Adjust the main lighting in the dining area to a softer, dimmer setting, allowing the candlelight to dominate.
Lounge or Seating Areas:
- Combination of Tea Lights and Twinkling Lights: Arrange clusters of tea lights on mirrored surfaces in the lounge area, complemented by strands of twinkling lights draped around the seating areas for a cozy yet mysterious vibe.
Outdoor Spaces (if applicable):
- Hanging Lanterns:Hang white paper lanterns in trees or along pathways outside to extend the ambiance to the outdoors.
- Tea Lights in Glass Vessels: Place tea lights in glass jars or lanterns along the walkways to guide guests and maintain the mysterious mood.
Special Effects:
- Fog Machine: Consider using a fog machine sparingly in certain areas to add an extra layer of mystique and drama.
Remember to prioritize safety when using candles or any open flames and ensure proper ventilation in enclosed spaces. These lighting ideas should help create an intriguing and eerie atmosphere for your Bel-air themed murder mystery party!
One host took it over-the-top and black lit their party. Check out the cool lighting and decorations!
Color Scheme
Color Scheme
For a Bel Air-themed murder mystery party, the color scheme should reflect luxury, sophistication, and a touch of mystery. Consider using a palette that embodies elegance and hints at the glamorous lifestyle of the Bel Air era. Here are some color scheme ideas:
Primary Colors:
- Black and White: A classic and timeless combination that exudes sophistication and contrasts beautifully. Use this combination for table settings, invitations, and general decor.
- Rich Jewel Tones: Incorporate deep, rich colors like emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, and amethyst purple for a regal and opulent feel.
Accent Colors:
- Gold and Silver: Metallic accents in gold or silver can add a touch of glamour and luxury to the color scheme. Use these colors for cutlery, decorative elements, or accents in table settings.
- Burgundy and Deep Reds: These hues evoke a sense of drama and elegance, perfect for table linens, drapes, or floral arrangements.
- Blush or Champagne: Soft, muted tones like blush or champagne can add a delicate, refined touch to complement the richness of other colors.
Incorporating Patterns and Textures:
- Damask Patterns: Consider using damask-patterned tablecloths or napkins in black and white for an elegant touch.
– **Velvet and Satin Textures:** Incorporate textures like velvet or satin in deep jewel tones for upholstery, cushions, or decorative elements to enhance the luxurious atmosphere.
Additional Considerations:
- Thematic Accents: Incorporate colors that complement the mystery theme, such as dark hues like deep purples or midnight blues, which add a sense of intrigue.
- Consistency in Decor: Ensure the chosen color scheme is consistent across invitations, table settings, decorations, and any thematic elements to create a cohesive ambiance.
- Subtle Contrasts: Use different shades of the chosen colors to create depth and visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Lighting Effects:
- Warm Toned Lighting: Use warm lighting to enhance the richness of the color scheme and create an inviting atmosphere.
- Colored Lighting Accents: Consider using colored lighting strategically to accent specific areas, adding depth to the chosen color palette.
Aim for a balance between the richness of the colors and the subtlety required for a mysterious ambiance. These color scheme ideas can help set the stage for an elegant and enigmatic Bel Air-themed murder mystery party
Create a Photo Spot
Create a Photo Spot!
Give your guests an unforgettable souvenier by setting up a photo area where they can capture a picture of themselves in character.
A few suggestions:
• Pick a place where there will be good lighting.
• You can make it as elaborate or simple as you want.
• Accessories and decorations can make the difference. Have some extra props on hand that your guests can pose with. Consider extra wigs, top hats, bowler hats, mustaches, sherlock hats, magnifying classes, feather boas, etc.
• An easy way to create a background is to use a “scene setter.” These affordable rolls of images transform your room instantly and make for a good backdrop to your picture.
• Make sure there is enough room to fit everyone in to the frame.
• For individual shots of guests, designate someone to be in charge of pictures as your guests arrive.
o Consider your character list and which character would fit the role of taking the picture. Ie, if you want mug shots, perhaps ask the investigator to be in charge of taking the pictures.
• For a group picture, take one just before the introduction is read or right after the solution is read (before people may start heading out).
o These are two times when you can count on everyone being around and attentive.
BACKDROP IDEAS for your A Clueless Murder photo spot
• Create a line-up board and take pictures of all of your suspects. Line-up board included with mystery materials.
• Use scene setters to make a simple background.
• Use props to enhance the photos. Have things like top hats, boas, big sunglasses, etc. for your guests to pose with.
• Paint your own back drop to pose in front of!
Utilizing the Extras
Utilizing The Extras
Whatever you decide on; BE SURE TO UTILIZE ALL OF THE EXTRAS THAT COME WITH THE MYSTERY —
These are one-of-a-kind designs, ideas, templates and more that Night of Mystery has developed to help you throw your own unique and authentic mystery party.
With ordering this mystery, you will find:
- Suspect board
- Killer Chillers
- Customizable Menu and Drink Menu
- Food Table Tents
- Wine Labels Awards
- Wine Labels Awards
AND MANY MORE!!!
Setting the Scene
Setting the Scene
Looking for decoration inspiration for your party? Here’s a video to help!
Click below to start!
Food & Music
Food
A Fancy Feast
Since this is the elite of the elite with impeccable taste, you can consider serving some of the finest food from elegant hors d’eurves to a delectable dinner of this New Year’s Eve murder mystery game.
Try some of these links for: – Elegant Appetizers – Gourmet Main Dishes – Divine Desserts
Spooky Treats To Eat
SINCE MURDER IS THE THEME OF YOUR PARTY, TRY SOME OF THESE HORROR-IFIC FARE TO SHARE WITH YOUR GUESTS.
All the fixin’s for a terrifying feast. Including Awful Arachnids, Eerie Eyeballs, Freaky Witches’ Fingers, Brittle Merangue Bones, Savory Brain Shrimp Spread, Deviled Eggs, Decayed Corpse Chips with Entrail Salsa, Spicy Bat Wings and more… Click here.
MYSTERY MAKINGS FOR DESSERT
• A murderous cake (simply insert a butcher knife into any cake and drape red food gel along it)
A Killer Cake
• Elegance is key!
• Use linen table cloths.
• Tea lights.
• Fancy table runner.
• Candelabra.
• Spray paint random things gold to add a flare for the elite. Use as table decorations.
• Use chargers with your place settings.
• Gold plates and plasticware.
• Have a printed menu (included with the mystery) at their setting.
Utilizing The Extras
BE SURE TO UTILIZE ALL OF THE EXTRAS THAT COME WITH THE MYSTERY–
• Name cards for your guests
• Personalized menus
• Recipe and directions to make some killer chiller glasses
• Designed labels to put on wine bottles for awards
• and MORE!
Music - Spotify Playlist
Host Information
Theme Ideas
To accentuate the idea of the coming to the memorial, you can…
Have a tombstone to honor the beloved.
• Make another tombstone with a “?” and your party date on it (for the one who will perish at the party)!
• Directions on making tombstones included in mystery materials of the New Year’s Eve murder mystery game.
Create a memorial to him in the party space as well.
• Use a picture off the internet, or of a dear friend who couldn’t attend the party, to portray Mr. Boddy.
• Have a guest book and have everyone sign in and note their favorite (fictitious) memory of the lost.
Create a crime scene.
• Evidence markers included in the mystery materials.
Don’t Forget the Suspect Board
Or a way to connect the dots
Leave footprints and fingerprints around the party space for your guests to find
Win a Free Party
Each month we highlight one of our customers who has posted on our blog and award them a FREE party!
To get your $5 coupon AND be entered in the Party Of the Month contest for a chance to win a FREE party, please email nompartyofthemonth@gmail.com
Don’t forget to add all the important details and party highlights that made your party one to remember! We love to hear about all of the hard work you, as host, put into your party. From the decor to the food, costumes, whatever. As well as how you and your guests acted (and reacted!) throughout the night! Everything that made your party one your guests will never forget — tell us about it! And be sure to attach some pictures!!!
Upon submitting, we will email you back a coupon to use for $5 off your next party AND enter you in our “Party of the Month” contest, where you could win a FREE party! Once submitted, you will not have to resubmit, but will be entered EVERY MONTH until your party wins!
Tips
All of the information regarding how to run your Clueless Murder party can be found online at Night of Mystery. We highly suggest that you take time to look over our website and download the A Killer New Year’s Eve preview file.Upon reading the introduction file of this New Year’s Eve murder mystery game, it will give you a better understanding about how the parties are run and what to expect once you purchase a full mystery file.
If you still have question, the Frequently Asked Questions page at Night of Mystery is a great resource or you can contact us.
If you still have question, the Frequently Asked Questions page at Night of Mystery is a great resource or you can contact us.
Since our games are custom written for the size of the party (ie, we don’t just create a mystery with 8 characters and then keep adding more characters to it), each mystery size is unique unto itself. That being said, going from 10-15 version to 15-20 version, will not only add in more characters, but it will change the storylines of the existing characters, and vice-versa in going from a larger version to a smaller one.
Because of this, WE STRONGLY SUGGEST you get a guest count before formally ordering. You can do so by downloading an invitation, inviting your guests and then purchasing your mystery once you have a more accurate number of people attending. Unfortunately, if you find yourself purchasing the wrong sized party, you will have to purchase another version of the mystery for the size you want unless you are moving from the 15-20 version to the 20+ version.
You can download an invitation here before ordering.
Because of this, WE STRONGLY SUGGEST you get a guest count before formally ordering. You can do so by downloading an invitation, inviting your guests and then purchasing your mystery once you have a more accurate number of people attending. Unfortunately, if you find yourself purchasing the wrong sized party, you will have to purchase another version of the mystery for the size you want unless you are moving from the 15-20 version to the 20+ version.
You can download an invitation here before ordering.
For even more party planning ideas, check out our A Killer New Year’s Eve Pinterest board here.
Once you order, in your mystery packet you will receive directions and/or printables to make unique and original decorations specific to your party! Included will be:
• EVIDENCE MARKERS
• HOW TO MAKE A TOMBSTONE
• SIGNS
• NAME CARDS
• FOOD CARDS
• DESIGNED DINNER MENUS (you can personalize with your menu items)
• WINE BOTTLE LABELS (to use as awards!)
AND MORE!!!
• HOW TO MAKE A TOMBSTONE
• SIGNS
• NAME CARDS
• FOOD CARDS
• DESIGNED DINNER MENUS (you can personalize with your menu items)
• WINE BOTTLE LABELS (to use as awards!)
AND MORE!!!
Each month we highlight one of our customers who has posted on our blog and award them a FREE party!
To get your $5 coupon AND be entered in the Party Of the Month contest for a chance to win a FREE party, please email nompartyofthemonth@gmail.com
Don’t forget to add all the important details and party highlights that made your party one to remember! We love to hear about all of the hard work you, as host, put into your party. From the decor, to the food, costumes, whatever. As well as how you and your guests acted (and reacted!) throughout the night! Everything that made your party one your guests will never forget — tell us about it! And be sure to attach some pictures!!!
Upon submitting, we will email you back a coupon to use for $5 off your next party AND enter you in our “Party of the Month” contest, where you could win a FREE party! One submitted, you will not have to resubmit, but will be entered EVERY MONTH until your party wins!
Check out some of our past winners here! Night of Mystery POM Blogs
Thanks again for hosting with Night of Mystery and we can’t wait to hear all about your party!!!
