So, you’ve decided to throw a murder mystery party – great choice! In case you were wondering – it’s the right decision!! You’ll have a blast!
But the reason you’re here reading this blog is because you have one last big question: should you host it yourself or should you bring in a professional team to do the job for you?
We are the only company world wide that does both – and not only do with do both – but we also ensure that the experience you get with the DIY side of things is JUST as good – as we don’t provide a “lesser product” if you’re going down that route – we provide THE SAME. It’s the same scripts the same hosting procedure. Just with one, you do all the advance planning and run the event, and with the other WE take all that stress away!!
Let’s break down the options, compare costs, and help you decide which is best for your event.
Hosting the Party Yourself: The DIY Option
At Red Herring Games, we believe that every host should have access to the best possible experience. That’s why our DIY packages include the exact same scripts and materials that our professional hosts use. You’re not getting a ‘lite’ version—you’re getting the full, high-quality experience that makes our events so successful
What’s Included in a DIY Murder Mystery Kit?
- A complete game download with everything you need. (Printed kits are identical to the download, just with one we print and with the other YOU print.)
- Detailed instructions, so you know exactly how to run the event.
- Character scripts and where applicable, clues or a list of evidence needed.
- Ideas for theming and recipe suggestions.
- Access to the same hosting script that we use with our actors.
- Video/MP3/Script for the inspector. The video makes it feel a little like a live host is there, but it’s all pre-recorded.
Cost: DIY games start at just £22.99 to download. Prices change depending on what size of game you buy, and we can provide custom written scripts DIY as well, so if you want the feel of a custom game – you can still access this and run it yourself.
Hidden costs to consider: If you’re hosting, you may need to print materials, provide notebooks and pens or other props, you need to be prepared to manage the game flow yourself. You’re responsible for keeping the event engaging and handling any questions from guests. You deal with any last minute “Hitches” in the guest list, you deal with the integration of the meal with the flow of the game. If you have a very uneven gender split or want the game customised in some way – you may need to do this yourself or pay towards us doing it for you.
Hiring a Professional Host: The Stress-Free Option
If you want to sit back and enjoy the event while someone else takes care of the hosting then that’s where we come in providing a host, two hosts, or a full team of actors.
What Does a Professional Host Bring to the Table?
- Live acting & improvisation – Our hosts bring the characters to life, adding energy and mystery to the experience. Having a fresh face at the party adds an element to the event that is hard to quantify, but it regularly takes the event to “the next level”, especially if you’re already a lively bunch and just need someone to take control to keep you on track!
- Event management expertise – We make sure the game runs smoothly, adjusting things on the fly as needed. We liaise with the catering, and we work out what we’re doing at each point to ensure a seamless experience. We’ve regularly run large scale events in small spaces, having fully acted events in people’s own homes, but equally we’re just as happy sending in a host inspector or two to help your evening along.
- Stress-free hosting – You can relax. We’ll keep up the pace of the evening. We know who needs to do what when. You don’t have to worry about keeping the event on track—we handle everything and cue people in a the right point, or read in for them if they’ve had to nip out to tend to the baby.
- Extras included – When we host, we can arrange customisation to the kits, minor customisations are often included in the price, added to that we bring printed materials, notebooks, pens, small prizes, and certificates. Plus, for an additional fee we can provide access to additional props, costumes, accessories and other extras to enhance your event.
Cost: Professional hosting starts at £370 for a virtual host. As you might expect prices for hosted events vary depending on the number of actors you need as well as where in the world you are. Actors rates vary drastically country to country.
Hidden costs to consider: None! We take care of everything so you don’t have to – when we provide our quote it’s inclusive of travel and anything you’ve asked us to do for you. There are no hidden extras. The only thing we always request is that you give our actors access to food and drink while they work with you. Many will have driven some way to be with you and will have missed their own tea.
The Big Question: Which Option is Best for You?
If you love the idea of running the show, have time to prepare, and want a budget-friendly option, DIY hosting is a great choice. With our kits you get a quality pack that allows you to be the host with the most as you use what we ourselves use with the actors.
But if you’d rather relax, play along, and enjoy the event without the responsibility, or have a custom or tailored experience in mind, then a professional host ensures a seamless and immersive experience.
Ready to Make Your Choice?
Explore our murder mystery game catalogue and find the perfect DIY kit.
Want us to host for you? Get in touch to book a professional host and let us handle the mystery for you!
No matter which option you choose, Red Herring Games has you covered. Let’s make your murder mystery party unforgettable!