How to Throw a Backyard BBQ

Lately we have had several clients who want to do a welcome dinner as opposed to a rehearsal dinner. Traditionally, rehearsal dinners are for those in the wedding party only (and their significant others), but with so many guests traveling to weddings these days, many brides and grooms want to include everyone in their pre-wedding festivities.
A great way to accomplish this without spending just as much as you are on the wedding is by hosting a casual backyard barbecue. Now of course, if you do not have a backyard, this can be hosted at a local park or beach. It is a great way to have fun with your guests in a casual setting, enjoy good food, and invite as many people as you want within a budget. Here are some great ideas on how to put together and personalize a BBQ welcome dinner (and to my friend and bride-to-be Shannon, this is for and inspired by you)! :)


Food and Beverages -- Catered or DIY??
You can go either way with this but the best thing to do is check prices for both. How much does your local BBQ joint charge for platters of pulled pork and bbq chicken? How much would this cost you to make yourself and would it be worth the work? You could also do a combo of making some of the food yourself, like grilling meats, and ordering the sides from a restaurant. Weigh your options to see what works best for you!

BBQ Burger and Chicken Fixin's Station -- If you or a family member/friend is grilling up the burgers and chicken, make a station with all the fixin's and get creative -- lettuce, tomato, onions, relish, etc. are all good, but experiment with some other toppings like salsa and guacamole for a southwestern option, or feta and pesto for a gourmet version.

Specialty Beverages -- Choose a specialty drink to serve to your guests and serve in cute, old fashioned glass beverage dispensers. Here is a great recipe for the perfect backyard BBQ adult beverage --


Lemon Drops on the Rocks (from MarthaStewart.com)
Ingredients

Makes 6 cups; serves 12

• 3 cups vodka
• 2 1/4 cups fresh lemon juice (from 10 to 12 lemons)
• 1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons superfine sugar
• Ice, for serving
• Thin lemon slices, halved, for garnish

Directions

1. Combine vodka, lemon juice, and sugar, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves. Transfer to an ice-filled pitcher, add lemon slices, and serve.

Decor -- When planning something casual in a backyard, natural elements work very well. Potted plants can add a splash of color to your tables, plus your guests can take them home as gifts at the end of the night. These are economical as well since typically a small potted plant from your local nursery will only cost around $5 a pop. You can also use mason jars with stems of daisies or whatever flower you like to add a bit of style. Try to stay away from the stereotypical red and white checkered tablecloths and consider making burlap table runners or going with other earth tones like greens, browns, and oranges.

Seating -- Make sure you have enough seating for your guests, especially if there will be older relatives or friends attending. Renting chairs and tables from your local rental place is not expensive if you go with the basic sets, and you can save money by picking up and setting up yourself.

Plan B -- If your backyard is open and uncovered, create a plan B in the case of inclimate weather. Will there be enough room inside your home for everyone to sit and move about? Where will you set up the food if the party is moved inside? Is there extra furniture from your living room that you can move into a bedroom to create more space? If you plan this ahead of time, it will create a much less stressful day for you and give you peace of mind. You should also set up a small area inside regardless, in case elderly guests need a break from the heat (this is very common in Florida, of course).

If you are thinking about throwing a backyard BBQ, party, or wedding, check out this blog - http://abackyardwedding.blogspot.com. This former bride DIY'ed her entire backyard wedding and had some really cute ideas and details. Here are just a few photos from her site:

other photos by TheKnot.com and Jason Angelini Photography, http://abackyardwedding.blogspot.com