Between prepping the food, organising the garden and worrying about the weather, hosting a BBQ can often feel more like work than play. Even so, they’re a wonderful way to spend time with friends and family.
Plus, who can say no to a delicious barbecued meal?
To help you simplify the planning process and enjoy a fuss-free event, we’ve highlighted some useful BBQ tips and tricks. Time to get sizzling!
Bring On The BBQ
The star of your event is very much the BBQ, so it’s worth thinking about that first and foremost. Whether you select a gas BBQ or a charcoal option depends on your style of cooking, but make sure you provide enough burgers, hotdogs and halloumi to go around. After all, food is a sure way to your guests’ hearts.
Even so, the last thing you want to be worrying about is cooking when you’re meant to be socialising. Luckily, you can prep potato salad and extras a few hours before to save time during the event itself. This way you’ll get to catch up with your nearest and dearest and enjoy a stress-free occasion.
Seating For Socialising
One of the most important parts of hosting is making sure your guests feel comfortable and relaxed. A good way to put them at ease is to begin with the basics, such as garden furniture. But sorting out seating is easier said than done if your garden is short on space.
To encourage socialising and leave room for people to mingle, why not try some garden chairs? Easily moved into different arrangements as people come and go, guests will appreciate having the option of sitting or standing without feeling squashed.
Garden
Playtime
If you’re hosting friends and family, chances are there’s going to be lots of little ones to entertain. To keep them smiling all day long, make sure you stock up on some stimulating outdoor toys.
Options like colourful playhouses are brilliant for nurturing their creative side, while sports toys will inspire siblings and friends to work together. Whichever exciting toys you decide on, be prepared to get involved in one or two of the games!
Light Up
The Night
Just because the sun starts to set doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. To continue the merriment well into the night, all you need is some well-placed garden lights.
To add a gorgeous glow, arrange some pretty solar lights around your patio. Or, to create a welcoming atmosphere in smaller spaces, string up multicoloured fairy lights. From unicorn styles and umbrella designs to fun flamingo options, we have plenty of illuminating choices to transform your garden after dark.
Keep Things
Toasty
Even though the sun might be shining during the day, the temperature can drop quickly at night. To keep guests warm while they socialise, it’s worth thinking about outdoor heating.
To tick off the Danish ‘hygge’ trend of cosiness and comfort, try fire pits and log burners. Not only will they bring an authentic camping vibe to your event, but they’ll also create just the right amount of warmth. All that’s left to do is scatter around a few super soft throws for little ones to curl up in. Easy!
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