Summer is quickly slipping away. Before you know it, the kids will be back in school. The end of a season is always bittersweet – so celebrate the last days of sun by gathering up friends and family for a BBQ!
Grillin’ and chillin’ is a classic summer pastime. While you may love to be spontaneous and throw parties together at the last minute, it’s best to plan. Here are some tips for making sure your BBQ is a success!
Pick A Convenient Date and Time
Summer days are packed with things to do, places to be, and people to see. Make sure you pick a date that works for everyone in your group!
The time of day you choose is just as important as the date. If you want to get the party going early, choose a morning cookout (yep, breakfast BBQ is a thing!). Or you can work on your tan by planning a mid-day cookout. Take advantage of cooler temperatures by hosting a sunset BBQ. Or end your summer BBQ on a sweet note with an evening dessert soiree!
Plan A Unique Meal
The menu is the next thing to plan. Once you’ve decided on the time of day, let that guide your food selection. Instead of the usual burgers and dogs, try something new! You can stick with classic summer BBQ staples, but when you serve them in interesting ways, they become more than just old standbys.
Select dishes that are easy to prepare, but still impressive. Let them think you spent all day slaving over the grill!
Keep your guest list in mind and make sure there’s enough food and drinks to go around And don’t forget to plan ahead for any special dietary restrictions and allergies.
When you do your grocery shopping, be sure to include some not-to-be-forgotten items like:
- Paper plates
- Cutlery (forks, knives, spoons)
- Plastic cups
- Aluminum foil and plastic bags for leftovers
- Napkins and paper towels
- Condiments
- Ice
Choose A Fun Theme
A party isn’t a party without decorations or activities! Your theme will help set the tone for your BBQ, so think about what kind of party you’re having before picking out decor and entertainment:
Kid-friendly? If so, throw in some lawn games – like cornhole, horse shoes, or water balloons.
Summer romance? String up some soft lighting, and put out candles and flower arrangements to create a romantic atmosphere for your guests.
Tiki party? Set out tiki torches and umbrellas to create the perfect Hawaiian hideaway!
Your theme is also a great place to show off your cooking skills. Coordinate your menu to the theme. You can even create centerpieces with flowers, fruit, and other garden produce for an attractive display that’s also edible!
Decide On The Location
Where you host the BBQ will determine how much prep goes in beforehand. Sturbridge Homes are designed with entertaining in mind, so they’ll make your backyard BBQ a bit easier to pull off.
From stylish and functional kitchens for the prepwork, to spacious backyards and decks for hosting, Sturbridge Homes are the perfect place to throw an unforgettable summer soiree.
If you’re looking for a home that has the space, amenities and features to create the perfect summertime cookout, check out quick move-ins from Sturbridge Homes today. You could be enjoying the last days of summer in your new home very soon!