The barbecue bash is what summer is all about. It’s the low-key good time that brings friends and families together in a no-pressure, casual atmosphere. The sound of food crackling above dancing flames, the smell of suntan lotion wafting through the air and the clink of glasses coming together as friends cheers the good times.
But throwing a flawless barbecue bash is not always as easy as throwing together a simple impromptu get together. So, without further adieu, here are our top tips for hostessing the best grill up this summer. 6 Steps For Throwing The Best Barbecue Bash1. Set The Standard
The setting for your barbecue bash is everything. It’s what will set the tone and boost the atmosphere, so think of everything you can. Make sure your lawn is properly mowed, and if you don't have a patio, deck or other designated entertaining space, set up a lounge area with plenty of shade. If you're having plumbing issues, consider consulting with a reputable plumbing company in order to avoid a Meet the Parents situation, and make sure you have a space or two set up for trash and recycling in order to avoid littering. Citronella candles and tiki torches can help keep bugs at bay (and help set the mood when the sun goes down) and food umbrellas will help keep pests off food as well.
2. Choose The Foods You'll Grill
The heart and soul of every barbecue is the food and drink, so make sure you know what you want to serve without going overboard. You want to be a relaxed hostess, not a stressed caterer. We recommend the classics (burgers and dogs), and then spicing things up with some kebabs and brats, as well as some veggie or seafood options. It’s a foolproof approach.
Need some recipe inspo? Check these out:
3. Sensational Sides
The secret to complementing a super-tasty barbecue is to have a handful of delicious (and nutritious!) side dishes accompanying your meaty main course. Salads, slaws and grilled vegetables like Mexican Street Corn (aka Elote) or veggie kebabs are great accompaniments. Just be sure to keep any mayonnaise-based dish out of the sun and on ice to prevent spoiling.
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4. Stay Hydrated
For beverages, keep things simple. Soda, beer and plenty of cold, bottled water are must haves. Additionally, you can serve lemonade and iced tea in decorative beverage dispensers where folks can help themselves. If you want to create an easy alcoholic drink, consider a pitcher or two of fruity sangria.
5. Decor Is A Must
Red gingham is the universal standard when it comes to barbeque decor, but you can go one step beyond and create a themed barbeque bash using a Hawaiian or Fiesta themed motif. Themed decor adds a fun, colorful flair most guests won't be expecting.
As mentioned previously, tikki torches and citronella candles pull double duty as bug repellents AND additional lighting. To create further ambiance once the sun goes down, consider purchasing inexpensive solar light stakes from your local dollar store and line walkways and paths, if they aren't already illuminated. Battery operated paper lanterns and fairy lights (both also available at most dollar stores) will also help to light up your space. 6. Music, Of Course!
No barbecue bash would be truly complete without music. Kickstart the festivities by playing your preferred playlist from popular music streaming platforms like Spotify or Pandora. Speaking of playlists, one of my personal favorites during this time of year is "Yacht Rock Radio", which can be best described as a delightful fusion of 70s soft rock, offering a smooth and mellow ambiance that perfectly complements the sunny weather, delectable food and the company of wonderful friends.
Do you have any great barbecue inspo to add? Let me know in the comments below!
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1 Comment
1/25/2022 08:31:10 pm
You are right about making sure you have sides like salad next to the barbecue. I want to buy a new grill. My old one doesn't get hot enough.
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