[Beav`]

The style's alright. The colour scheme isn't really 'fun', but you've put more effort in than some do so that's a bonus. At the risk of discouraging you even more, the truth is that 'general' forums rarely work. You might think people are being harsh but they're only being realistic. You've got to pick a subject (preferably something you also enjoy or there's no point) and build your forum around that. That way you attract a wider community with something in common, instead of people you already know hanging around until they get bored and stop posting.