If you are planning a small summer gathering with your nearest and dearest, you might be keen to crack on with a barbecue. These meat filled extravaganzas should offer up incredible food, a brilliant atmosphere, and awesome fun. Of course, you'll want to enjoy the time with your party people rather than being chained to the kitchen or the grill. It doesn’t matter whether you are a barbecue newbie or a burger bonanza veteran, take a look at this guide to the ultimate barbecue party.
The Ultimate BBQ Party Guide
Go For The Buffet
At the top of the list of stress-free summer cookout ideas is the wonderful structure of a buffet spread. By putting the onus on your guests to fix their own plate full of barbecue grub (and go back for guilt-free seconds), you won't have to worry about serving everyone at once. It also gives your friends more choices when it comes to their food as well. Put together a stylish buffet area by covering a simple folding table or two with attractive disposable tablecloths, a summer-y table runner and an attractive melamine serveware set. Start with the hot food, like burgers, dogs (even vegan dogs!), chicken, steak and the like, and move on the cold foods and salads, and finally condiments. Make sure the cold foods are nestled into ice to keep fresh.
Tarhong Rio Turquoise Floral Melamine Serveware, amazon.com
Consider Comfort
The one nuisance that comes with barbecues is flies, gnats and (gasp!) wasps. These pests can make it nearly impossible to eat in peace, and let's not even discuss the potential health hazards they pose. According to nowthisisnews.com, "Flies also have no teeth, so they eat by spitting and throwing up on their food. The longer a fly is on your food, the higher the chance of harmful bacteria, viruses and parasites being transferred to it." To combat this, check out this article on the 3 Best Bug Zappers, which explores how best to remove these nuisances from your garden.
We've talked about it on the blog before--but ensuring that there is enough seating for your guests is tantamount to hosting a fabulous barbeque. Very rarely are barbecues formal affairs, so think about having a few different casual seating options. In addition to your standard patio table and chairs, consider folding chairs, ottomans and poufs.
We've talked about it on the blog before--but ensuring that there is enough seating for your guests is tantamount to hosting a fabulous barbeque. Very rarely are barbecues formal affairs, so think about having a few different casual seating options. In addition to your standard patio table and chairs, consider folding chairs, ottomans and poufs.
Set of 2 Knit Pouf Ottomans with Storage, amazon.com
Add Music And Games
The food is something that your gastronomic flair can take care of. For example, you might mix up your burgers with some halloumi alternatives (perfect for your vegetarian friends) or you may be keen on experimenting with the latest marinades and dressings. To create the perfect backdrop to your perfect menu, however, you'll need some awesome tunes. Are your friends into jazz? Hip hop? Alternative? Whatever the case, find a summer playlist that will complement your crowd.
When it comes to finding fun games to play, consider croquet or boccie for the grown ups, and a giant Jenga set for the little ones to enjoy. Keeping everyone amused can be a bit of a challenge, so having fun and games at the ready is a great way to entertain guests.
When it comes to finding fun games to play, consider croquet or boccie for the grown ups, and a giant Jenga set for the little ones to enjoy. Keeping everyone amused can be a bit of a challenge, so having fun and games at the ready is a great way to entertain guests.
Giggle N Go Knockoff Disc Toss, amazon.com
Need a little help getting organized? Check out this printable summer bbq checklist from evite.com.
Click to print!
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