The Ultimate Guide To Hosting The Perfect BBQ

Bonjour lecteurs! It is eventually starting to feel like summer and I can’t wait to spend more time in the garden with our family. This weekend was particularly glorious and I saw so many people having a spontaneous BBQ in their jardin, I am now planning one for the Bank Holiday Weekend! You too? C’est parfait because I’ve done some recherche and here is for you my Ultimate Guide To Hosting The Perfect BBQ!

Create A Menu

Once you know who will be attending your BBQ, plan a menu with all the classiques such as burgers, hot dogs, and grilled chicken.

I would also offer a vegetarian or vegan option. We love grilling salmon but also some vegetables like peppers and tomatoes. Plus, prepare fruit and salads to cater for everyone’s tastes.

For the dessert, ice cream or some cake would always do the trick.

And if anyone offers to bring something, take on their offers for a more varied menu. Plus, you can always do with some extra help.

I also have a pizza or two that I can pop in the oven if the kids fancy.

Make It Ever So Special

Hosting The Perfect BBQ that people will keep talking about for years can happen with just one little détail.

You could do a hog roast to impress your guests? Plus, it’s something quite extraordinary for kids! From the classic hog roast to lamb spit roasts, your BBQ will for sure be talked about!

Or if you fancy something a bit quirky, why not look into Poptop Parties? They have such a variété of options. You can turn the evening into a cocktail class or even book a solo singer to make it très spécial.

Plan Ahead & Back Up Plan

This year more than ever, the weather has proved to be unpredictable. So to make sure your BBQ parfait doesn’t fail, careful planning should be on the cards.

Have a plan B like a gazebo in case of rain.

And let the neighbours know that you will have a little party so there might be some musique later than usual. Or even better, invite them so they can join the fun!

Stock Up On Supplies

Now this clearly sounds like THE most amazing BBQ of the year and no doubt your guests will not want to leave anytime soon!

You better stock up on supplies and that includes grilling utensils, charcoal or propane, plates, napkins, cups, and cutlery. Don’t forget either the condiments like ketchup, mustard, and barbecue sauce.

And if you plan to serve alcoholic beverages, I would also buy a variety of options and even ask guests to all bring their fave drinks. A delicious Mai Tai cocktail with vibrant rum, refreshing lime juice, and sweet orgeat syrup can be a fantastic addition to your drink selection. This way, everyone is happy and you will not run out of drinks.

Prepare The Grill

To be fully prepared and not have any bad surprise, I would test the grill a week or so before. Plus l’excuse parfaite to enjoy an extra BBQ before your big evening!

Make sure your grill is clean and free of any residue from previous use. Check the fuel levels and make sure you have enough charcoal or propane to last through the cooking.

Get The Party Going

Create an inviting and comfortable outdoor space for your guests. Arrange plenty of seating options, such as chairs, benches, and picnic blankets, especially if you have elderly guests.

For a cosy and welcoming ambiance, add some LED lights or lanterns.

It will add this je-ne-sais quoi to the atmosphère.

Decide also of whom will be in charge of la musique. The simpliest is to create a playlist with a mix of upbeat and relaxing tunes that will keep the atmosphere lively. And if you have the space and budget, you can even hire a live band or DJ to take the entertainment to the next level.

Keep The Children Busy

All the mamans will just want to chill and you can even catch up with your besties.

So to keep the children busy, plan ahead some activities. I would set up some outdoor games like twister, giant Jenga, or even some balls games if you have space to keep everyone entertained.

You can even arrange for a movie night in the garden, especially in the late evening when the kids get a bit tired. Put a blanket on the floor with some cushions et voilà!