It is always a great way to start the summer with the best barbeque, drinking wine, and the sound of your friends and family laughing. Some forward-thinking, a few simple tips, and a reminder that wonderful gatherings are all about making everyone feel welcome and at ease.
Setting the Scene
A relaxed, open space is key. Think about where everyone is going to sit, how they’re going to be moving around, and where food and drinks are going to be positioned, if you have a patio, position seating to allow for easy conversation. If you’re working in a green space, position picnic blankets, toss in large pillows, or use folding chairs to position a cosy yet easy setup.
Keeping the Food Simple
The best barbecues are those that do not need you to be constantly in and out of the house to the kitchen all night long. Stick to foods that can be prepared ahead of time so you can also enjoy the party. Marinate meat overnight, prep vegetables beforehand, and get all of your sides ready to be served when the company comes.
A mix of old favorites and something new is a winning combination. Burgers and sausages are always a hit, but adding a little something different, such as grilled halloumi, sticky chicken skewers, or buttered corn on the cob, is a great idea. A large sharing platter of salads, warm bread, and dips allows everyone to help themselves, freeing you up to enjoy the meal without having to plate each course.
Drinks Station
One of the easiest ways to help maintain a smooth flow is to have a drink station. A wine and beer table with a mix of each, plus a house option or two of fruity iced tea or a summer punch, keeps everyone refreshed throughout. The availability of glasses, ice, and garnishes of lemons or fresh mint in close proximity to it is a caring touch without any added effort to you.
Seating That Encourages Interaction
The seating arrangements can be enough to turn a BBQ into a success. No one wants to be stuck in a corner, precariously perched on a plate in their lap, without anyone to converse with. Arrange small clusters of chairs or benches to allow for easy and natural dialogue. In a small space, get everyone to move around by incorporating a mixture of standing spots and sitting spots.
Good seating, delicious food, and a nicely set-up space—whether it’s a result of recent patio laying or simply a well-kept grassy spot—can be all it takes to make a stress-free BBQ happen. As long as everyone is sitting comfortably, everyone is going to be in a good mood.
The Right Atmosphere
Adding a few finishing touches can also make the get-together even more enjoyable. Some blankets in a basket to snuggle up in when it gets chilly, a bug spray and sun cream stand on a small table, or even a garden game such as a ball toss or a set of giant Jenga for the children.
Enjoying Every Moment
The best hosts are those that put in time to be present around their guests. Once the food is sizzling and there is a drink flow, stand aside and enjoy the ambiance. No one remembers a BBQ for great food that was perfectly grilled, yet they will remember laughter, conversations, and that they felt welcomed.
At the end of it all, a barbecue is all fun, great food, and great company. With a little work and a few nice touches, you’ll host a bash that everyone looks forward to year after year.