10 Tips For Hosting a Successful BBQ

Fourth of July is this weekend and if you’re hosting a BBQ you’re probably in full planning mode! Before Sunday arrives make sure to check out our tips below for hosting a successful BBQ with your friends and family.

 

1 – Get a headcount – You want to make sure you have enough food and drinks for your guests. Get an accurate headcount from your guest list tonight so you know what you need at the grocery store.

 

2 – Know what your guests eat – Do some guests have special dietary concerns or allergies? Make sure you have options for them so they are able to eat and enjoy themselves at your party!

 

3 – Make sure you have all the cooking supplies – No one wants to be running out to the market for missing items the day of the party. Think about condiments, ice and charcoal now!

 

4 – Make the perfect playlist – No party is complete without the perfect playlist! Music streaming services offer plenty of options and some have already put together 4th of July playlists that are perfect for your soiree.

 

5 – Have activities planned – Put out some games for your guests if you have the space! Think lawn games like cornhole or badminton for some outdoor fun!

 

6 – Think of the kids – Make sure you have food and beverage options on hand for any little ones who will be attending the party (i.e. juice, water, snacks etc.)

 

7 – Have a bad weather back up plan – Rain can certainly ruin any party. Don’t let it ruin yours! Make sure you have a backup plan and a space for guests to go if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

 

8 – Have festive accessories – Nothing says 4th of July like red, white and blue apparel! Pick up some beads, glasses or hats for your guests to wear while they celebrate!

 

9 – Prepare for the sun and bugs – Stock up on bug spray and sunscreen and have it out so guests can help themselves if needed.

 

10 – Have fun – The most important tip is to remember to have fun! Hosting a party can be stressful but if you follow these steps you should be well-prepared and able to enjoy yourself.

 

5 Tips for Hosting a Great Friendsgiving

Hosting a separate Thanksgiving with friends is a tradition that is gaining popularity over the last several years. Whether you host yours before the big day or serve leftovers after it, here are some tips to make your Friendsgiving fun and memorable!

 

1 – Make it an annual thing. Create some invitations (paper or use online sites like evite.com) and let your friends know they can look forward to Friendsgiving every year.

 

2 – Serve options other than turkey. Some people are “turkeyed-out” by the time Thanksgiving is over. Try serving some dishes that you wouldn’t see at a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

 

3 – Ask your guests to bring something. If everyone pitches in and brings a casserole or finger food appetizer the work-load will be easier and less stressful.

 

4 – Start some unique traditions. Play board games, toast with a special drink, create a photo album of photos from every year. Traditions are fun (especially around the holidays). Your guests will know what to look forward to next year.

 

5 – Don’t force a timeline. Let your friends pop in and visit for as long as they’d like. If you have a strict dinner time set some people may not be able to attend.

5 Tips for Setting a Table for a Dinner Party

Hosting a dinner party this weekend? Before you pull out the plates and flatware, keep reading to find our tips for setting the perfect dinner table for guests…

  1. Use a table covering of some sort (one that fits the theme of the night.) A tablecloth or table runner adds a beautiful touch to a standard dining table. Don’t have a table runner? A roll of brown craft paper can give a fun DIY touch to your table.
  2. Fill a glass water pitcher with cold water earlier in the day and pull it out to place on the table at dinner time. That way guests can refill their glass as needed.
  3. Try a fun napkin fold for the event! Watch this video here for some folding inspiration.
  4. Add the decor. Head to the local supermarket and get some fresh flowers to add to the table. Use small LED candles on the table as well to give your dinner a warm ambiance.
  5. Don’t forget about dessert! Save room on the table (and time) by plating your desserts ahead of time and keeping them in the kitchen. You can serve with coffee right after the meal.