Throwing an Enviable Backyard Barbecue

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors and entertain guests while cooking up some sizzling good grub that will bring even the pickiest eaters to the table. However, there’s more to throwing the perfect party than just the menu.

For some great ideas on how to make your get-together one of the hottest events of the summer, see below for some tips on what to serve, excellent decor and amazing activities.

Set up a DIY “fixin’s” station. If you are planning on doing something simple like hotdogs and hamburgers, take it up a notch with a table devoted to nothing but toppings. Fresh lettuce and tomatoes, every kind of condiment served in mason jars, and specialty items such as sauerkraut and peppers will ensure that your guests can make their hamburger or hotdog exactly what they want, whether it’s topped to the brim or sweet and simple. Set up a gold picture frame with a print out of the options available, or include fun facts about the benefits of adding kraut to your meal.

Keep cool with a signature cocktail. Creating a signature cocktail is easy, but you want to make sure it matches the vibe of your party. Choose something light and refreshing, and not too sweet for the hot sun. A sparkling pink lemonade is always a good choice, or a crisp white wine or sangria. Be sure to have a variety of options for your guests' tastes, including waters and juices for any of the kids. This is another great way to incorporate your favorite antique picture frames at your table. Add a fancy menu or keep cards with the recipe nearby to hand out to guests who request how to make your famous drink at home.

Keep guests entertained with fun outdoor games. No one likes a party with a lull, so keep the conversation going with some great outdoor games. Have different areas of the yard devoted to some favorites such as horseshoes, croquet or the cornhole, which is rapidly growing as one of the most popular outdoor games to play with friends. Have a bucket of bubbles or sidewalk chalk for the kids to entertain themselves with, and be sure to clean off any patio furniture or swing sets thoroughly beforehand.

Set the party to continue into the evening with lighting and decor. Hanging colorful flag banners are an easy way to add some great color to your yard and create a beautiful segmented setting for your guests. Lighting can go a long way as well. One of the most popular things to create the mood are string lights hung from tiki torches. You can even make sure the candles repel bugs while smelling amazing with citronella in your tiki torches, so they can play double duty in keeping the party going and keeping away unwanted pests.