How to Host the Perfect Barbecue

*For my lovely UK readers!

The Great British Summer is finally upon us and even though we’re almost guaranteed our fair share of rain, it’s definitely BBQ season. The recent Jubilee celebrations and long bank-holiday weekend were the perfect excuse for many of us to mow the lawn, stock up on the beers and throw our first barbecue of 2012. However, if you do plan to host your own Wimbledon or Olympics-themed party then make sure you follow this guide to ensure that your barbecue isn’t a washout!

Garden Furniture

One word: Gazebo. The unpredictable British weather means that you need a back up when the skies turn grey. An essential piece of garden furniture for outdoor parties and barbecues, most of the larger gazebos come with curtains so you can let in as much or as little sun as you wish – as well as protecting you from rain showers and light breezes.

 

Depending on the size of your garden and the number of guests you plan to invite, a full outdoor dining set is a great investment. There’s nothing worse than trying to balance a burger on the arm of a deckchair while your drink sits on the floor at the mercy of kids, animals or your more inebriated guests! Most garden tables come with a parasol to provide useful sun cover on hotter days. 

Food and Drink

The range of barbecue foods is endless. From hamburgers and chicken drumsticks to tuna steaks and haloumi kebabs, it’s easy to ensure all your guests will be catered for – plus it gives dad the chance to flex his culinary muscles! Whether you’re serving beer, wine, spirits or soft drinks to accompany your food, make sure the drinks are ice-cold. Keep your bottles in large buckets of ice if there is no room in your fridge. 

Entertainment

Most people are happy to sit back and just enjoy the food and drink but it’s a good idea to provide some activities to break up the day. If you’re throwing a Wimbledon party for instance then hiring a table tennis table and holding a mini-tournament of your own will provide lots of entertainment. For the Euros, why not hold a table football competition. If the weather does turn nasty then karaoke always proves popular with both young and old.