With longer days and super-sunny weather on the way, BBQs are back on the agenda! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner griller, hosting the ultimate summer BBQ is all about the prep. Here at George, we have everything you need to cook up the most delicious spread, from stylish gas grills and fire pits, to must-have toolsets and outdoor dinnerware. Keep our checklist on hand to make sure you’re ready and raring to go the moment that sunshine hits!
Get A Grill
No matter the size of your garden, there’s a cooking set-up that’s right for you. After all – you can’t host the ultimate summer barbecue without a BBQ (and a great set of BBQ tools!).
As a starting point, think about how many people you’ll be cooking for and the space you need to fit the grill safely. For family meals and intimate gatherings, a small charcoal BBQ is ideal.
When a full-on summer BBQ party is on the cards, try a larger gas BBQ with 5-6 burners instead. It has all the space and cooking power you’ll need to keep everyone fed and happy, plus, it’ll look seriously impressive in pride of place on the patio!
Prep Your Party Food
Whilst hot food will need to wait until everyone’s arrived, cold food can be prepped in advance. That means more time socialising in the sun and less time chopping and mixing in the kitchen – win-win!
Think simple salads, chopped veggies, cheese platters, and coleslaw for an effortlessly impressive spread that caters to all tastes. Store your finished side dishes in containers, then pop them in the fridge until party time!
Set The Table
Say goodbye to one use paper plates and plastic cups this summer and lay your table with our range of super-stylish outdoor drinkware and outdoor dinnerware! Your set-up will look oh-so-beautiful, plus these reusable dishes are much sturdier than their cardboard counterparts and are kinder to the environment. We even have kids’ outdoor dining sets to get the little ones involved.
Use them all summer long for BBQ and picnics, then store them away, ready for next year!
Style Up Your Space
Hosting a BBQ is the ultimate excuse to update your outdoor space for summer. Not only will your guests be super impressed, but you’ll also have a tranquil outdoor area you and your family can enjoy for months to come.
Not sure where to begin? Start with a stylish outdoor rug to define the space, then add some comfy garden chairs. Try wicker egg chairs to make a style statement or hang a swinging macrame chair for summer vacation vibes! Or, if you really want to go all out, transform your backyard into an extra living or dining room with a garden sofa or dining set.
Want to design a fun dining area for your little ones? Create a special space just for them with our range of super-cute and practical kids’ garden furniture.
Lastly, complete your set-up with a parasol to keep you sun-safe, pretty pots and planters for greenery, and decorative garden lighting for a wow moment after dark!
Be All-Weather Ready
BBQs in British summertime mean there’s always a chance of rain. Luckily, even if the heavens open, it doesn’t have to spoil your fun.
Make sure you’re prepared whatever the weather and set up a gazebo in the garden. You and your guests will be protected come rain or shine, plus, it makes your garden accessible all year round.
Don’t forget to add some string lights and comfy outdoor throw cushions – they’ll make the space feel extra relaxing and inviting this BBQ season!
Enjoy The Evening
Who says the fun has to stop when the sun goes down? Not us! Turn on your outdoor lights and grab a few blankets to fend off the evening breeze. You can even liven (and warm) things up by investing in a fire pit for the centre of your seating space. Stylish, practical, and perfect for BBQ parties throughout summer and beyond!
Looking for more outdoor dining inspiration this summer? Don’t miss our guide to the perfect picnic checklist.
