Party Planning Tools
Unmasking A Murder
Who’s Who
Morgan Whitlock – Mogul. Best for confident players who like leading conversations and directing others. Spouse to Avery Whitlock. Either
Avery Whitlock – Socialite. Ideal for outgoing guests who enjoy attention and witty exchanges. Spouse to Morgan Whitlock. Either.
Sean Whitlock – Whitlock Heir. Good for energetic players who like ambition and bold moves. Either.
Casey Whitlock – Socialite. Perfect for persuasive players who like mixing charm with strategy. Spouse to Chairperson Hennessy. Either.
Jordan Whitlock – Associate. Best for mysterious players who prefer to observe and plot. Either.
Quinn Whitlock – Accountant. Great for clever players who like uncovering or hiding information. Either.
Blair Whitlock – Foundation Head. Ideal for dramatic players who enjoy balancing innocence and guilt. Either.
Mayor Duvall – Politician. Best for talkative guests who enjoy persuasion and dealmaking. Spouse to Ellis Duvall. Either.
Ellis Duvall – Socialite. Perfect for charismatic guests who love intrigue and subtle rivalry. Spouse to Mayor Duvall. Either.
Chairperson Hennessy – Politician. Good for articulate players who like negotiation and ambition. Spouse to Casey Whitlock. Either.
Alex Carlisle – Atrium Club Owner. Ideal for confident guests who enjoy authority and discretion. Either.
Drew King – Nightclub Manager. Best for social players who enjoy humor, gossip, and adaptability. Either.
Taylor Graves – Associate. Perfect for observant guests who prefer subtle manipulation. Either.
Cameron Marino – Developer. Good for assertive players who enjoy competition and power games. Spouse to Sage Marino. Either.
Sage Marino – Socialite. Ideal for charismatic guests who love gossip and social strategy. Spouse to Cameron Marino. Either.
Riley Shea – Union Boss. Best for bold players who like confrontation and leverage. Either.
Reese Northfield – Donor. Good for inquisitive guests who enjoy asking questions and uncovering motives. Either.
Detective Kane – Cop. Perfect for analytical guests who enjoy investigation and deception. Either.
Deacon Donnelly – Deacon. Best for witty players who enjoy irony and moral gray areas. Either.
Hayes “The Shark” Lang – Lawyer. Good for assertive players who enjoy confidence and clever defense. Either.
Some characters may not be included in all versions.
Newsletter
Glossary
Masquerade-Worthy Phrases
“In this city, loyalty is a luxury — and most can’t afford it.”
“Masks may hide faces… but they never hide intentions.”
“Influence isn’t earned — it’s bought. Some just pay more discreetly than others.”
“Trust? Darling, this is high society — trust is the first thing we auction off.”
“I never gossip. I simply share truths that others prefer to whisper.”
Glossary
Download the glossary to get familiar with the key terms and fully immerse yourself in the theme before the party begins.
(BUTTON HERE)
Theme Specific
Costume Gallery
Costume Ideas
Here are 7 simple costume ideas that fit the glamorous, power-driven masquerade gala theme:
- Black-tie tuxedo
- Satin evening gown
- Velvet suit
- Sequin cocktail dress
- Classic tux with tails
- Elegant jumpsuit
- Sleek formal suit with cape
Where to Find:
- In Your Closet
- Borrow Your Rich Relative
- Online Rental stores like Rent The Runway
- Thrift and Consignment Stores
- Amazon
90s Party Decor
To make the most of your Y2K Chaos, you will want to transform your party space into your Y2K New Year’s Eve Bash. Here are a few ways to do that are both inexpensive and FUN!
Creating an Entrance
Creating an Entrance
- Welcome to the Gala Banner – Hang a Welcome to the Masquerade Gala banner at the entryway to welcome guests to the Whitlock Foundation Gala. *You can find it here.
- Mask Display Wall – Arrange assorted masquerade masks (real or paper cutouts) along the entrance or doorframe.
- Gold & Black Balloons – Cluster metallic gold, black, and ivory balloons by the entry to create a glamorous red-carpet vibe.
- Candlelight Pathway – Line the walkway or stairs with LED candles or lanterns to evoke an elegant gala glow.
- “Welcome to the Gala” Sign – Place a framed sign at the entrance with the event name in formal script.
- Red Carpet Runner – Lay down a short red or black runner rug to simulate a VIP entrance for the city’s elite.
- Photo-Op Backdrop – Use a shimmering curtain or gold sequin fabric as a quick and classy photo spot near the door.
- Faux Champagne Station – Set a small side table with sparkling cider or bubbles to hand guests as they enter.
- Music Ambience – Play soft jazz, classical, or instrumental tunes near the entrance to set the scene.
Name-Tag Table with Masks – Create a check-in table with envelopes or name tags, plus extra decorative masks for those who forgot theirs.
Inside the Party Space
Inside the Party Space
- Gold, black, and white table accents (table runners, napkins, or small fabric squares)
- LED candles or tea lights clustered on tables
- Masquerade masks placed as centerpieces
- Printed “Masquerade Gala” signage in frames. *Included with the party packet extras materials.
- String lights or fairy lights draped around the room
- Tall glass vases with feathers or faux florals
- Small stacks of fake money or “charity pledge cards” as décor
- Background jazz, piano, or orchestra playlist
- Photo spot corner with a gold backdrop and faux pearls or beads in a bowl
Mirrors + Metallics. Mirrors multiply light and make the room feel expensive.
Use: Mirror tiles, Thrift store mirrors (spray paint frames gold), Mirror placemats or acrylic sheets. They make every table look like a VIP lounge.
DIY Masquerade Centerpieces
- The Floating Mask Vase.
Tall cylinder vase. LED candle inside, Mask taped to the front, Looks like it’s glowing. - The Shadow Bouquet
Black or deep-purple artificial flowers. Gold branches or glitter twigs. Mask on a stick inserted into the bouquet - “Glass Tower” Centerpieces
Clear acrylic boxes. LED lights inside. Gold confetti or metallic shred on top. A futuristic nod to corporate skyscrapers.
Setting the Table
- Black or gold napkins tied with ribbon
- Single faux pearl or jewel at each place setting
- Mini battery tea light at each seat
- Printed “Gala Menu” card at each plate. *Included with the mystery extras materials.
- Name tent cards in metallic font
- Gold or black disposable plates and cutlery
- Small masked emblem sticker or cut-out on each napkin
- Glass vase or jar with feathers or beads as a centerpiece
- Sprinkle of metallic confetti or sequins
- Simple framed “Whitlock Gala” sign in the center of the table
Lighting
Lighting shapes the mood, elevates every detail, and transforms ordinary spaces into dramatic ones.
- Clusters of battery-operated candles on tables
- Warm white string lights draped across walls or railings
- Gold or black lanterns placed in corners
- Fairy lights inside clear jars or vases
- LED pillar candles on mantel, shelf, or counter
- Up-lighting with small LED puck lights against walls
- Twinkling curtain lights as backdrop or behind sheer fabric
- Dimmed overhead lights with added table lamps
- Tea lights lined along walkways or shelves
- Spotlight on a framed “Gala Night” sign or décor area
Picking a Color Scheme
A tight color palette makes everything feel intentional and upscale, even when it’s inexpensive.
Use tablecloths, napkins, balloons, or thrifted fabrics in these colors to create your ideal palette.
- Gold, Black & Ivory
- Deep Burgundy, Champagne & Gold
- Emerald Green, Black & Metallic Accents
- Royal Purple, Silver & Charcoal
- Midnight Blue, Gold & White
Also Consider A Bit of Tasteful Sparkle
A little glitter goes a long way:
- Edible glitter in cocktails
- Glitter spray on décor branches
- Gold confetti just on tables (not floors!)
- Spray paint wine bottles with gold for decorations
This gives a “high-end gala” feeling without going overboard.
Creating a Photo Spot
Give your guests an unforgettable souvenir 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.
- Make sure there is enough room to fit everyone into the frame.
- Consider what the background will look like.
Some masquerade-themed background suggestions are:- Floor-to-ceiling black backdrop with gold or navy curtain with gold ribbon ties
- Gold sequin or metallic fringe backdrop
- Deep velvet throw or fabric draped dramatically
- Paper masquerade masks and feathers mounted in a scattered cluster
- Faux ballroom “panel” look: white poster boards with gold tape trim
- String lights behind sheer fabric for a soft, elegant glow
- “Foundation Gala” sign or monogram poster (Whitlock-style glam but customizable)
- Accessories and decorations can make a difference. Have some extra props for your guests to pose with.
Some suggestions include:- Velvet or satin masks on sticks
- Faux champagne flutes or crystal-style glasses
- Feathered fans or gold hand-held fans
- Stacked faux “donation envelopes” and play money bundles
- Gold-trimmed frames (guests hold them for portrait-style shots)
- Beaded garlands or pearl strands to drape or hold
- Mini handheld signs with phrases like “Whispers & Secrets” and “Power Has a Price”
For individual shots of guests,
- Designate someone to be in charge of pictures as your guests arrive.
- This is a fun way to set the mood and get everyone comfortable.
- You can ask one of your guests to be in charge of this as of their character.
- If you want “mug shots” of everyone, use the suspect board, included with your mystery extras materials.
For a group picture,
- Take a group picture just before the introduction is read or right after the solution is read (before people may start heading out).
- These are two times when you can count on everyone being around and attentive.
Hosting Themes
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.
Extras Include:
Party Banner
Welcome Poster
Room Signs
Suspect Board
Designed Food and Drink Menus
Photo Props
90s Movie Poster Designs
90s Album Art
Empty heading
And more…….
Gallery Visual Inspiration
Musical Playlists
How to Find the Perfect Playlist for Your Party
Set the mood, spark the drama, and keep your guests fully immersed from the moment they walk in. Here’s a simple, guest-friendly guide to finding (or creating!) the perfect playlist for your murder mystery theme:
1. Start by Defining Your Party’s Vibe
Before browsing, think about the atmosphere you want:
- Glamorous & classy? Look for jazz, big band, elegant instrumentals.
- Spooky & mysterious? Try eerie ambience, dark pop, or cinematic tension.
- High-energy & playful? Find upbeat hits, theme-park-style scores, or party pop.
This helps you narrow down search terms later.
- Use Theme-Specific Keywords When Searching
On your favorite music platform, plug in keywords like:
- “1920s jazz party,” “Masquerade ball music,” “Football hype playlist,” “Haunted mansion ambience,” “Tropical mystery soundtrack,” etc.
The more theme-specific your search, the easier it is to find playlists that instantly match your setting.
- Explore Ready-Made Playlists on Popular Platforms
All major music apps make it easy to find playlists that fit your mystery’s tone:
- Spotify: Browse under Moods, Genres, or search for themed playlists made by other fans.
- YouTube: Great for long ambience mixes, instrumental background loops, and themed soundscapes.
- Apple Music: Try curated genre stations or search by setting AND vibe (e.g., “vintage party,” “dark lounge”).
- Pandora: Enter a song or artist that matches your theme to generate a station that fits the mood.
- Customize Your Own Playlist for a Perfect Fit
If you can’t find exactly what you need, blend a few playlists or build your own:
- Mix slow, atmospheric tracks for clue-reading moments.
- Add upbeat songs for mingling, dancing, and dramatic accusations.
- Keep the theme consistent—era-appropriate, spooky, glamorous, tropical, rustic, etc.
Even a quick 10–15-song playlist goes a long way in shaping the party’s energy.
- Use Soundtracks and Scores for Immersion
Search for movie or TV soundtracks that mirror your theme. For example:
- Mystical or fantasy settings: Orchestral or epic adventure scores.
- Vintage or historical themes: Period films or retro compilations.
- Spooky mysteries: Thriller, suspense, or gothic scores.
These tracks are perfect for setting tone without distracting lyrics.
- Test the Playlist During Setup
Turn on your playlist while decorating or prepping food.
If the music makes you feel like you’ve stepped into the mystery—your guests will feel it too.
- Want It Easy? Use a Pre-Made Night of Mystery Playlist!
Save time and jump straight into the suspense with the Night of Mystery Spotify playlist, curated to give any theme an atmospheric boost. Just hit play and you’re ready to host!
- Keep the Music Rolling During the Party
Whichever platform you choose, make sure autoplay, looping, or a long playlist is enabled so the music doesn’t stop mid-mystery.
Host Ideas - Invites
Here are 3 quick, immersive DIY enhancements for the Unmasking a Murder invitations to elevate the masquerade-meets-elite-corruption vibe:
Add a Mini Mask Reveal to Your Invite. Attach a tiny paper mask (glitter cardstock works great!) with a mini brad fastener so it flips up to “reveal” the invitation details underneath — hinting at secrets behind every mask.
Extra touch: a note like “What lies beneath your mask?”
Slip in Gala Tickets
Included in your party Extras are specially designed gala tickets. Add in your details, print them out, and send along with the invite for extra authenticity.
Bonus: a subtle line like “Power favors the prepared.”
Wax-Seal (or Faux-Wax) Monogram Style
Seal the invitation (or an inner card) with a wax seal or glue-gun faux seal stamped with an elegant monogram or mask icon to mimic elite gala exclusivity.
Optional: dust with gold powder for a lavish touch.
Offer a Mask Creation & Upgrade Station for Your Guests
Give your guests a fun, interactive way to join the masquerade by setting up a Mask Creation & Upgrade Station. It’s easy to do and ensures everyone has a stylish mask—whether they arrive with one or not.
How to Set It Up:
- Provide Base Masks
Stock simple plastic or paper masks for guests who come without one. - Offer Upgrade Supplies
Set out rhinestones, feathers, metallic markers, lace, ribbon, and glue so guests with their own masks can add extra flair. - Add Tools & Work Space
Include scissors, glue guns, adhesive dots, and a few tabletop mirrors. - Keep It Organized
Label two areas:- Make Your Mask
- Upgrade Your Mask
- Make It Inviting
Add some LED candles or string lights to give the station a glamorous touch.
This small setup adds huge value—guests feel creative, included, and totally ready for the masquerade vibe.
Have a Grand Unmasking Ceremony
Once the murderer has been revealed and the mystery is solved, gather your guests for a final dramatic moment—the Grand Unmasking.
How to Host It:
- Call Everyone Together
After the culprit is caught, bring all guests to the main room or dance floor. - Set the Mood
Dim the lights, cue a dramatic sound or musical sting, and build anticipation. - Count It Down
Lead a countdown as everyone prepares to remove their masks together. - Unmask as One
At zero, all guests take off their masks at the same time for a shared, unforgettable reveal. - Celebrate the Finale
Follow the unmasking with a toast, group photo, or final party moment.
The ceremony is a perfect way to close the night—uniting everyone in one last flourish of mystery, drama, and celebration.
Creating a Photo Spot
Give your guests an unforgettable souvenir 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.
- Make sure there is enough room to fit everyone into the frame.
- Consider what the background will look like.
Some masquerade-themed background suggestions are:- Floor-to-ceiling black or navy curtain with gold ribbon ties
- Gold sequin or metallic fringe backdrop
- Deep velvet throw or fabric draped dramatically
- Paper masquerade masks and feathers mounted in a scattered cluster
- Faux ballroom “panel” look: white poster boards with gold tape trim
- String lights behind sheer fabric for a soft, elegant glow
- “Foundation Gala” sign or monogram poster (Whitlock-style glam but customizable)
- Accessories and decorations can make a difference. Have some extra props for your guests to pose with.
Some suggestions include:- Velvet or satin masks on sticks
- Faux champagne flutes or crystal-style glasses
- Feathered fans or gold hand-held fans
- Stacked faux “donation envelopes” and play money bundles
- Gold-trimmed frames (guests hold them for portrait-style shots)
- Beaded garlands or pearl strands to drape or hold
- Mini handheld signs with phrases like “Whispers & Secrets” and “Power Has a Price”
For individual shots of guests,
- Designate someone to be in charge of pictures as your guests arrive.
- This is a fun way to set the mood and get everyone comfortable.
- You can ask one of your guests to be in charge of this as of their character.
- If you want “mug shots” of everyone, use the suspect board, included with your mystery extras materials.
For a group picture,
- Take a group picture just before the introduction is read or right after the solution is read (before people may start heading out).
- These are two times when you can count on everyone being around and attentive.
Utilize ALL the EXTRAS
Planning Inspiration
For even more party planning ideas, check out our PINTEREST BOARD LINK
Utilize All 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.
Included will be:
- GALA TICKETS
- WELCOME POSTER
- WELCOME BANNER
- MASK TEMPLATES
- ROOM SIGNS
- DESIGNED MENUS (you can personalize with your menu items)
- AND MORE!!!
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 [email protected]
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 decorations 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 Y2K Chaos party can be found online at Night of Mystery. We highly suggest that you take time to look over our website and download the Y2K Chaos preview file. Upon reading the introduction file of this 90s disco 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.
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.
To get in the mood, check out some of the most popular 90s movies and sitcoms: Seinfield, Friends, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air etc. Here’s a list of movies and sitcoms to help!
OTHER RESOURCES:
– Look above on this page in the Costumes, Decorations and Food & Music tabs.
– Be sure to check out our Y2K Chaos Pinterest Board that is filled with ideas for recipes, costumes, decorations, etc.
– All of the *Extras* that come with the mystery!!! (see below for more info!)
For even more party planning ideas, check out our Y2K Chaos Pinterest Board here. It is s filled with ideas for recipes, costumes, decorations, etc. for the perfect Y2K Chaos party!
With this mystery theme, you we have included a number of ideas and designs to help enhance your party with easy-to-make decorations and such.
- Party Banner
- Welcome Poster
- Room Signs
- Suspect Board
- Designed Food and Drink Menus
- Photo Props
- 90s Movie Poster Designs
- 90s Album Art
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 [email protected]
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!!!
