Guide to the Ultimate Summer BBQ

There are so many reasons to celebrate during summer! The sun is shining, the weather is warm, and school/work vacations have everyone feeling great. There is no better way to get all of the people you enjoy having around together than a summer BBQ. Want to step up your BBQ game? Personalized grilling utensils are an ideal place to start. From main course picks to customized party favors, we're brimming with excellent backyard BBQ ideas.

How to Have the Ultimate BBQ

1. Set the Scene

When you're trying to figure out how to host an outdoor party that guests will remember, start with setting the scene. Summer BBQs are all about fun and good food. Still you could stand out by selecting a theme to make things truly spectacular. When setting the scene and environment, consider:

• Appearances and decorations
• Good tunes you want your guests to hear
• Comfort measures to keep guests around longer

As far as decor, a few lights strung around a patio can be a great touch, especially if the BBQ is expected to continue after dark. Potted plants, tablecloths and linens, and even a few personalized gifts for the home could be used. Add the tinkling sounds of personalized wind chimes or create a BBQ playlist with everyone's favorite songs. Finally, make sure you have good seating, throw pillows, and even a fire pit or patio heater if there's a chance that the weather could turn a bit chilly.

2. Make Sure You Have the Right Barbecue Supplies

You truly can't pull off a good summer barbecue if you don't have the right grill. If your outdoor area doesn't have a grill already installed, look for a well-built grill that suits your comfort zone and size requirements. Charcoal and propane are the two primary grill options you'll encounter. Both can be employed to craft delicious food that will solidify your status as the neighborhood grillmaster. Don't forget a personalized grilling apron while your'e at it!

A few other good tips for using a grill include:

• Always clean the grill grates before cooking
• Separate different foods on the grill top to prevent flavors from mingling
• Use foil to line the bottom of the grill to maintain more stable temperatures while cooking
• Consider adding grilling planks or wood chips for added smoky flavor

3. Pick Your Main Course(s)

If you are hosting a larger crowd, it may be a good idea to work on more than one main course. 

A few options to consider include:

• Lamb and feta burgers
• Grilled salmon, scallops, or shrimp
• Store-bought bratwursts, traditional hot dogs, or sausages
• Grilled steakhouse-style hamburgers
• Pork chops or pork tenderloin for pulled pork
• Grilled chicken or turkey
• Vegetarian BBQ tempeh sandwiches

4. Choose Your Sides

Side dishes such as salads, grilled vegetables, or the classic chips and dip are all go-to treats for a tasty summer BBQ. There are endless possibilities, but it's a good idea to look for sides that complement the main course. For example, some chefs swear by pairing pork with a side that contains apples, and grilled seafood almost always melds well with a good mint and quinoa salad. A good rule of thumb: always offer at least two or three sides, and possibly more if you have a lot of guests. This ensures everyone finds something they like and makes the meal more filling even if you are not serving hefty main course portions.

5. Don't Forget the Cold Drinks!

After setting the scene and picking the food, don't forget your beverage options. An all-adult BBQ may involve a cooler filled with beer, hard seltzers, and bottled water. If you're going a little more high-end, stick a few bottles of chilled wine in an ice bucket on the table or set up a small cocktail bar. Family-friendly? Make sure you have a tub of ice-cold sodas, bottled water, and kid-friendly choices.

6. Serve Up BBQ Fare in Style

BBQ food is oh-so-good. There's just something about food that comes to life when enjoyed outdoors with loved ones. However, there is also something to be said for making an awesome presentation. Don't be afraid to whip out your personalized jumbo knife set to cut fabulous slices of brisket or smoked turkey to wow your guests. Set up your tablescape with a few personalized outdoor gifts, such as a nice planter with a welcome message, or integrate some custom placemats.

7. Consider a Few Personalized Party Gifts

Who says backyard BBQ guests shouldn't get party favors? Pick up a few personalized gifts to give out to each guest. Something small and inexpensive can make the day truly a memorable one. Or, pick a few personalized gift ideas and play a few games allowing the winner to walk away with a prize.

A Few Extra Summer Barbecue Tips

• Heading to a BBQ as a guest instead of hosting your own? Grab something like a laser engraved cutting board or a grill lover's personalized barbeque set to gift the host.
• Summer BBQs are a great way to celebrate special occasions. For example, for Father's Day, grab some gifts for dad and grill for him – if he'll let go of his favorite spatula!
• Wondering how to celebrate July 4th with a BBQ? Build your menu around red, white, and blue food choices. Toss in a few patriotic decorations, and don't forget the Independence Day music.

Looking for a few extras to make your summer BBQ even more fun? Be sure to check out our extensive collection of personalized gifts at ForAllGifts.