A Monique Affair's Signature Event of the Year.....Smooth Criminal Murder Mystery Party

   Turning 40 is a milestone in every woman’s life; some meet it with anxiety, fear and disappointment. However, turning 40 for me will always be remembered as one of the most exciting times of my life! I had the goal of creating an exciting experience for my guests in combination with my favorite things.


When I was first coming up with a plan, I thought about having all my guests come dressed as their favorite Michael Jackson video….and after I ran that idea by my partner, I was challenged to go back to the drawing board (lol).

So drawing on my love for Michael Jackson and creating a unique event I thought about Smooth Criminal, and pulling from the video, created a 1920’s murder mystery theme!

With my theme in hand, I started on my search to put all the elements together; A venue to host this soiree, A company to customize the murder mystery, a unique eco-friendly invitation program, a unique way to register for a gift, a caterer who would customize a menu that included my favorite foods and 1920’s costume resources for my guests.

As my guest entered the venue, at the registration desk they were asked the secret code, and then given their character information packet. As the entered into the main room, they were met with butler passed glasses of champagne and back ground 1920’s music.

45 minutes I made my entrance into the event; my song of choice was Billie Holiday, Them There Eyes. And my guests loved it! The host of the murder mystery walked my guest through the game, as I mingled with everyone!

My grand entrance

We dined on butler passed Hors d'œuvre: Shrimp and Grits, Lamb Chop lollipops, Stuffed Mushrooms, Mini Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Tomato Bisque shooters. The menu also included stationed dips, fruit and veggies! The main centerpiece of the event was a vintage inspired dessert table called “The Sweet Spot” it included 15 of my favorite desserts, calligraphy signs and delicious desserts!

The highlight of the event was when my favorite song came on Michael Jackson’s “Wanna Be Startin Something” everyone joined in and took a turn dancing with me, including my mother! And then the sound of everyone clapping and stomping to the ending of the song…”Ma Ma Se, Ma Ma Sa, Ma Ma Coo Sa” was priceless! Now that was a way to bring in 40!


Enjoy the photos on A Monique Affair's FaceBook fan page and like us while you are there! All photos are by Amy Sullivan Photography Amy Sullivan Photography