4 Tips for Throwing an Easy Summer BBQ

Summer is almost here, and it’s time to start thinking about spending time outside with friends and family. The classic summer BBQ is something that everyone always enjoys, but you don’t have to make these gatherings complicated. There are so many things you can do to make entertaining easier!

Here are some quick and easy solutions for hosting a summer BBQ:

1. Pre-plan what you can

Planning is everything. You don’t want to wait until the last minute to head to the store or decide who to invite. Sit down and decide who you want to invite, make a menu, and then make a shopping list. If you want to pick anything up from the deli or bakery, make sure you put in your orders, if needed. The day before the event, you can even make some of the foods you plan to serve—this will make the day of the BBQ go much more smoothly.

2. Set up stations

If you want to make it simpler to remember what you need to have out for your guests, set up stations! This makes it so easy to get everything set up and for people to find everything they need. Separate the obvious things, like drinks and food.

Having items set up in stations is a great way to keep the flow moving. If you don’t have the space to have multiple stations for food, desserts, and condiments, use things from around the house to create height. Items like wooden crates and cake stands make it easier to reach (and see!) all of the food options.

Having labels is a great way to let people know what is available. You can also add information about ingredients if you have anyone with a food allergy or sensitivity. Writing directly on Chinet Classic® plates and platters is a quick and easy way to ensure everyone knows what’s what on your BBQ spread.

For other items that you serve in bowls or your own dinnerware, I’ve included some printable labels to make things super easy, as well as a matching invite.

3. Have games

You also want to have entertainment for the adults and kids, like outdoor games! For the kids, it could be something as simple as a water balloon fight. For adults, you could play a fun game like “Have You Ever?” or set up a badminton net, croquet set, horseshoes, or cornhole. Parties are so much more fun when everyone is interacting!

4. Make clean up a breeze

There are so many things you can do to make cleanup easier, but the biggest is using as many disposable items as possible. Not only can you use disposable plates, cups, napkins, and cutlery, but you can also use disposable tablecloths, butcher paper, or craft paper.

Make sure you find a product that is sturdy! I love Chinet Classic ® products because they offer premium strength so you don’t have to worry about spills and leaks—they are even cut resistant! Chinet Classic® products are strong enough to serve the heaviest, messiest meals with style and work great when paired with Chinet Crystal® cups and cutlery.

A summer BBQ is always a great way to entertain people, but it can easily turn into a big affair that requires a lot of work. Don’t let that happen! Use these quick and easy solutions for hosting a summer BBQ so that everything goes off without a hitch.

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