There’s something magical about having your friends and family over for a dinner party in your backyard. Whether you’re celebrating something special, like a birthday, or you just want to spend time together, dining outdoors offers an experience that’s hard to beat. If you’re looking for ideas, the following tips will help create an unforgettable backyard dinner party.
1. Offer vegetarian barbecue options
So many barbecues focus on meat, and that’s fine for people who eat meat, but vegetarians and vegans are often left out. Sure, there are always side dishes, like roasted potatoes and onions, but that’s not really a meal. When you host a barbecue, make sure to offer tasty vegetarian options for main dishes. If you have to buy something prepared or frozen to heat up because it’s too hard to cook from scratch, that’s fine. Just don’t leave anyone out.
2. Get an outdoor kitchen
When you have an outdoor kitchen, cooking for a bunch of people is so much easier. Not only will you avoid having to run to and from the backyard constantly, but it’s fun cooking outdoors. With a good grill and a couple of burners, you can cook multiple dishes at once and make sure everyone gets their food while it’s hot.
In addition to grills, outdoor kitchens have various options, like ice makers, extra storage, pizza ovens, and kitchen islands when you need a larger prep area. If you want to serve alcohol, having an ice maker is a must.
3. Serve a tasty dessert
There’s a reason meals feel incomplete without dessert – that sweet taste at the end of a meal is the perfect way to indulge your taste buds and leave you feeling completely satisfied. If you’re serving food, don’t forget the dessert.
Cake, cookies, ice cream, pudding, brownies, tarts, and cheesecake are all popular dessert options and with these ideas, you can’t go wrong. However, be aware of allergies, and make sure to disclose all ingredients. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to have at least one or two options that don’t contain common allergens, like nuts. For example, plain chocolate chip cookies are a classic favorite and you don’t need to worry about them going to waste.
4. Give out party favors
Nobody is ever too old for party favors! They’re a great way to show people your appreciation and make them smile when they open their goodie bag. Everyone loves a good surprise, and your options are endless.
Party favors for adults are not your average trinkets. You can make them silly, practical, or even a little inappropriate, depending on your guests. Some of the best ideas include custom temporary tattoos featuring an image everyone knows as an inside joke, popcorn, bath bombs, personalized towels, cigars, candles, and anything else your friends and family would enjoy..
5. Host an after-dinner movie
Everyone loves relaxing with a good movie after they eat, so offer your guests the option to stick around for a movie after dinner. If the weather is nice and you have the ability, host the movie outside with a projector. If that’s not possible, bring everyone inside and hand out cozy throw blankets, pillows, and of course, popcorn.
For extra seating, you can get bean bag chairs or bring out a top mattress and put it in your living room. Don’t worry about making your living room look neat – sometimes the best experiences are chaotic and messy.
6. Have extra trash cans available
Never underestimate the power of an overflowing trash can to diminish someone’s experience at a party. When people have to wander around looking for a free trash can, they can feel a little out of place. Put several empty trash cans throughout the areas where your guests will be gathered, including inside. Check them periodically to make sure they aren’t stuffed, and change the trash bags as needed. When your guests arrive, let them know where the trash cans are located so they won’t have trouble finding them.
Keep it simple and don’t stress
Amazing parties aren’t necessarily fancy, and you don’t need to impress people by spending a fortune to hire a popular band. The most memorable parties are ones where guests feel appreciated and enjoy connecting with other people. When you create a space for your guests to enjoy each others’ company, your party will be a success.
