How to Host a Speakeasy Murder Mystery That Will Really Slay!
The Roaring ‘20s were a time of prohibition, law breaking, and plenty of people breaking the mould. A time of flappers and mobsters, of dancehalls and drinking. It comes as no surprise that this decade is the most popular for murder mystery games, and a speakeasy the most popular setting.
We love throwing a killer 1920s mystery night, and here are a few of our top tips and tricks to help you host a murder mystery evening to die for…
Pick your game
There are plenty of murder mystery games on the market, but with a Sisters Grimm Game you get a clear choice of two different formats. You can go for a fully scripted game, where any of the characters can be the killer with their own means, motive, and opportunity. Games like our Masquerade Mystery are replayable, and the host can play too!
Our other format is an evidence based game with 10-20 players, where there is one set killer and your guests will mingle, ask questions, and put together what happened for themselves. All of our games come with loads of amazing extras to ensure you have everything you need for a truly killer party!
Select your guests
A speakeasy would have been pretty careful about just who they let in, so invite your besties and get ready for a rip-roaring time! Each of our games comes with core characters that must be in attendance, that enhance the story, are the murder victims or suspects, or who are just more entangled with each other.
Make sure that you allocate these core characters to guests that are sure to attend, while those slightly more flighty friends are best suited to a less essential role. You will find invitations included in your game extras, and don’t forget to let each guest know which character they will be playing so they can get dressed to kill!
Get dressed to kill
The perfect 1920s mystery wouldn’t be complete without looking the part. Don’t feel like you have to break the bank to look fabulous. You can find some amazing outfit suggestions on Pinterest, and you would be amazed at the incredible finds that could be waiting in your local thrift shop. A pack of headbands for the women and a few fedoras for the guys can turn any outfit into a 1920s costume!
Each of your guests will have a costume suggestion included on the front page of their character booklet, but just how big you go is up to you!
Set the crime scene!
Much like with your outfits, how much you set the scene is really up to you. Included with your extras are some bespoke suggestions to match your game, and it is actually pretty simple to set up a speakeasy! Turn up your 1920s Spotify playlist, go for lamp lighting rather than a bright overhead glare, and get ready for murder, mayhem, and all that jazz!
Set up several small tables or groups of seats if you have them, or clear the floor and go for more of a dancing space instead. Music alone will do a lot to have your guests partying like its 1929, and with the right look and refreshments, anything else you do will be the icing on the cake.
Serve up some tasty ‘tea’
Nothing makes it feel like you are experiencing 1920s prohibition like sneaking a sip of cocktail from a tea cup! Our games all come with bottle labels to cover your favourite tipple with a unique Grimm design, and serving up one of our recommended cocktails in a tea pot or cup will really add to the mystery!
At Sisters Grimm we are always happy to answer any questions and queries you might have, and make sure to check out our Host Guide and How to Play Guide found in your party packs. These will take you in detail step by step from party prep to the end of an unforgettable murder mystery night.