I love throwing parties in my backyard. But, sometimes hosting a big backyard bash can also be a lot work! Here are my tips for hosting an awesome backyard BBQ without breaking a sweat. The idea here is: If the host is relaxed and having fun, so will the guests!!

Here are my “dos” and “don’ts” for hosting a backyard bash that shows what an expert entertainer you are.

DO:

  • Set a Menu
  • Assign friends an “item” to bring such as a green salad or chopped grilled veggies that can be thrown on the grill.
  • For the undomesticated of the group, ask them to bring chips and salsa, “adult beverages” or dessert.
  • Make sure you’ve mowed the grass, cleaned the grill and arranged the patio furniture
    in a way to encourage socialization. Don’t forget the bug spray and citronella candles.
  • Keep entertaining items together for easy access. Keep the disposable forks, tablecloth
    and napkins together for quick retrieval.
  • Pre-prep as much of the food as you can so you can hang out with your friends when they
    arrive instead of running around finishing things up.
  • Assign a “designated griller” per course (appetizer, entree, dessert) so someone doesn’t
    get stuck grilling the entire night.
  • Create the ultimate playlist to encourage spontaneous dancing. Here is my summer grilling playlist: bit.ly/iTunes-grillbabygrill

Don’t:

  • Make a dish for the first time when entertaining. Don’t let your friends be your guinea pigs—make something you’ve made before that has predictable results.
  • Drink more than your guest. You are the host; you have to keep this party together.
  • Make overcomplicated dishes that will take away from time spent with friends. Make a dish you feel comfortable making for a stress-free experience.
  • Don’t let your friends wander into the living room to watch ESPN. Sports TV is the
    #1 Backyard BBQ killer because it does not encourage talking or dancing!
  • Don’t cancel because of weather. If it rains, take the party inside if your living room
    can fit everyone. In this case, the outdoor BBQ will turn into “game night”.

At the end of the day, the goal is to have fun and not sweat the small stuff. Summer is all about hot nights, cold drinks, and great food and company. Get your grill on!

Robyn Lindars is a Grilling is Happiness sponsored writer.