Nothing says summertime like lighting up the grill and inviting all your friends over for a cookout. Whether you’re hanging out with the family or hosting a big crowd, making it easy and stress-free is key. To make hosting that summer barbecue easier than ever, we have seven tips to help you out.
1. Be Prepared
You want to be able to enjoy time with your guests when you have them over. Get all the food prepared before everyone arrives. Go ahead and have all your hamburger patties formed, the lettuce torn, tomatoes sliced, condiments out, and any side dishes assembled. With everything already prepared, all you have to do is throw things on the grill.
2. Ask Guests to Bring Something
Don’t feel like you have to do everything yourself. A good guest is always willing to bring something, plus it will give them a chance to show off their favorite dish. This will not only give you more time to get the house and backyard ready, but it’ll also make for less cleanup afterward.
3. Provide Ample Seating
Not all of your guests are going to want to sit the entire time, but be sure to provide plenty of seating so no one has to search for a seat. Don’t hesitate to bring out those camping and beach chairs so your guests aren’t left standing around trying to balance their plate of food as they attempt to eat. Floor cushions are also a great option for the younger folks in the crowd.
4. Provide Entertainment for Your Guests
While you may be the host of the party, it doesn’t mean you have to personally entertain your guests the entire time. Yard games, such as cornhole, horseshoes, and bocce ball, are a great source of entertainment for both adults and kids.
5. Don’t Forget About the Indoors
Even though you may be hosting a backyard party, not everyone is going to want to spend the entire evening outside. Don’t forget to prepare the inside of your home. But don’t put too much effort into it, as you want to encourage more time to be spent outdoors. The simple acts of making sure things are put away, fluffing throw pillows, and lighting a candle can go a long way.
6. Serve a Signature Drink
Personalize your summer barbecue with your own signature drink. Creating a signature drink is as simple as finding one of your favorite drinks that’s easy to make in a large batch, adding your own twist to it – such as some fruit or other garnish, and giving it a fun name! If possible, don’t forget to have a version for the adults and the kids, just be sure they’re clearly marked.
7. Skip the Prepared Desserts
End the night with something fun for everyone to do together that’s also super yummy. Set up a s’mores or sundae bar for everyone to create their own dessert masterpiece. Provide fun toppings for everyone to create their own special dessert and see how creative everyone can get.
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