Everything You Need to Host a Beautiful Backyard BBQ

Nothing beats a long day milling around a backyard, mingling with friends, and munching on finger food and snacks. Summertime is the season for enjoying the outdoors and playing grill master. If you’re looking to host a memorable and magical evening located lawn side, here are a few ideas and inspirations to host the best BBQ ever. 

No real backyard BBQ can exist without the fixings. Mustard, relish, mayonnaise, pickles, onions, and barbeque sauce are mealtime must-haves. For a cute way to display condiments, try a rustic serving tray or a vintage soda box. 

Image via Freedom Grill 

A garden feast will turn into a bad scene without the requisite grill. Whether it’s plain and simple or has all the bells and whistles, a patio grill is a necessity for a truly successful BBQ. 

Image via Listoic 

While great food is an undeniable component to a great celebration, nothing beats a few laughs and a game of lawn Twister. Playing with pals on the grass is a great way to let loose and enjoy a day in the sun.  Other great game ideas include: potato sack races, beanbag toss, horseshoes, bocce ball, and croquet. 

Image via Little Miss Momma 

While it’s great to have food, condiments, and games, for an epic BBQ, there needs to be a place for guests to relax and lounge. A colorful picnic table is ideal for large groups, while a traditional patio set is also smart. For a low maintenance seating option, a simple blanket in the grass offers guests a spot to devour a burger or an ear of corn. 

Image via DIY Ready 

While it may seem obvious, every BBQ host needs to serve not only food but also an array of ice-cold beverages. Bottled water, beer, soda, and lemonade are a few popular picnic drinks that work well for a summer celebration. A drink station and a few creative cocktails like watermelon margaritas and spiked fruit punch will also garner rave reviews.  

Image via Tailgate Fan 

No grill chef can do a proper job of preparing meats and veggies without the right attire. A grilling apron or a fully loaded camouflage smock will be perfect for stashing extra condiments, cooking tools, beverages, and even cleaning supplies!  

Image via Vieltha 

A backyard bash is always more fun with colorful décor and fun favors. Rustic lanterns, checker print napkins, mason jars and fresh flowers add flair and ambiance to a food-focused shindig. Red and white are the perfect colors for a country style BBQ. 

Image via Marz Media 

For a long lasting BBQ, good lighting is a must. String lights, candles, and paper lanterns are all good options for creating a cozy and comfortable patio party. Unique rope lighting is also a fun option for making a bright path for guests. 

Image via Lo-Pie 

Forget the recorded iPod music and instead leave guests filled with buzzy energy by providing a live band. Whether it’s a friend who whips out a guitar or a local band for hire, nothing beats the sounds of a live musical performance.  

Image via Buzzfeed 

While most guests will meander to the shade, it’s always prudent to have sun supplies at the ready. Kids and grown-ups will likely need sunblock and bug spray for a long-haul BBQ that lasts throughout the day. 

Image via Brit + Co 

While most people are ready to eat picnic fare when they go to a BBQ, many are looking for a sweet treat. Be prepared for sugar seekers with an array of gourmet goodies like pies, cupcakes, and an ice cream station. The best no-fail dessert option for a patio party is the perennial favorite: chocolate brownies. 

Image via Mr. Burch Tuxedo Blog 

While party attendees will appreciate food and fun, it’s never a bad idea to play ‘host with the most’ and offer a favor for guests when they depart. Mason jars with jam, drink koozies, a BBQ sauce (or rub) and popcorn are all cutesy parting gifts for guests leaving a summer shindig.  

Image via Nikonites 

Finally, give guests a truly spectacular BBQ experience with a light show at the end of the evening. Whether it’s full fireworks or a bunch of sparklers, every guest will enjoy a complimentary show full of pyrotechnic pizzazz.  

Guest Post By Amy Spagnola