Planning the first spring BBQ can be a fun and exciting experience, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. So, here are some tips to help you kick off the season with style and a bang.
First, Plan the Food and Drinks
The most fun part is deciding what to serve at the barbecue. Think about what's in season and how your guests like their food and what they like. Burgers, hot dogs, steak, chicken, and vegetables are always good choices for a BBQ. But don't forget to think about the sides, drinks, and dessert. Use these fun and creative drink recipes to really impress your guests. Make sure to ask your guests if they can't eat something because of intolerance or have any allergies.
Consider the Date and Time of Your Party
If you live in a place like the UK, where the weather can be hard to predict, this can make it hard to plan a BBQ. But you should try to pick a date and time that works well for you and your guests. Think about the weather report and choose a day with good weather. And make sure you have a plan if the weather turns bad. This could mean putting up a gazebo, bringing extra blankets, or having plans for moving inside if it rains. So make some room in your house.
Get Your First Spring BBQ Supplies Now
A BBQ can cost a lot of money. Even a small grill can cost up to $100, and that's before you buy food and drinks. But right before summer, there are always BBQ sales in the spring. Most likely, you already have them. But write down everything you need for your BBQ, like cooking tools, plates, and even napkins. Consider buying things that are easy to throw away to make cleaning up easier. And if you want to show your support, buy things that last and don't use plastic.
Clear a Safe Area for Cooking
Using a grill is inherently dangerous, especially when kids are around. So, make sure you have a place to cook that is safe and easy to use. This could be a stove, a grill, or a fire pit. Also, make sure you have everything you need to cook, like tongs, a spatula, and a grill brush. With these, you won't drop hot food on someone walking by, like a toddler. And remember that when you use a grill outside, you should always follow all safety guidelines and rules for doing so.
Add Some Decoration and Flair
Even if it's not a special day like a birthday, you can still decorate the BBQ to make it feel festive and fun, even if it's not a special day. Think about things like balloons, tablecloths, and even spring flowers that are often used at parties. You could also add string lights, lanterns, or candles to make the area feel warm and inviting when it gets dark. Think about the theme as well. For example, for a Hawaiian-themed BBQ, add tropical flowers, leis, and tiki torches.
Summary
With the more desirable weather of the season comes the time for the first spring BBQ. First, plan your food and drink. Then get supplies on sale, and spice it up with a decorative theme.