Summer is all about spending time outdoors in the company of close family and friends. Let’s look at some tips and ideas on how to dress up a backyard barbecue party with both rustic and elegant flair.

HOW TO DECORATE YOUR BACKYARD: AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE

Outdoor dining set decorated with magnolia leaf garlands and wreath

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There’s more to hosting a barbecue than just firing up the grill. Here’s how you can set up your backyard for your next BBQ party:

ENSURE LOTS OF COZY SEATING

Outdoor patio decorated with wicker furniture, a fire pit, and blue and yellow greenery

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Consider creating smaller pockets of more intimate seating to allow guests to relax and enjoy a cold drink away from the heat and smoke of the grill. Soft furnishings like cushions and lightweight throws help create a more comfortable atmosphere.

CREATE A CHARMING TABLESCAPE

Rustic table set up in a garden

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Even casual events such as a backyard barbecue benefit greatly from well-decorated tablescapes. Entice guests to the table with table runners made of greenery and other rustic elements. For eye-catching centerpieces, arrange seasonal blooms in clear jars or straw baskets.

DAZZLE WITH A DRINKS AND DESSERT STATION

Colorful flower wreath behind a table with wine and glasses

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Make food and beverages part of your BBQ party décor by presenting them beautifully and in line with your theme. For example, fruit-infused water or colorful summertime tea in mason jars are refreshing drinks that draw the eye. Use a galvanized metal bucket filled with ice as a rustic beverage cooler to play up that summertime vibe.

AMP UP THE AMBIENCE WITH LIGHTING

Outdoor fire pit with fairy lights

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As the party will surely carry over into the evening, create a cozy and festive vibe with the right outdoor lighting. Fire pits provide a warm glow, as do backyard string lights on trees. Large lanterns filled with light strings or flameless candles are also versatile pieces you can use to illuminate your nighttime gathering.

ELEVATE THE ATMOSPHERE WITH GREENERY

Two children sitting on wicker patio furniture decorated with colorful flowers in pots and wreaths

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Summer is the best time to use nature as your very own decorations for a BBQ party. Accentuate any natural foliage you already have with lifelike greenery and artificial flowers in full bloom. Hanging baskets or potted arrangements add cheery pops of color throughout your backyard. Meanwhile, TOPIARIES lining pathways and flanking patio doors give your garden a manicured look.

BARBECUE PARTY THEME IDEAS

While not required, a theme can help simplify your menu and décor choices while adding professional panache to the proceedings. Check out some popular backyard BBQ theme party ideas below.

Orange and yellow blooms in a hanging basket, a cookbook, and wooden chopping boards in corner

COUNTRY CHARM

Bring back the classic backyard barbecues of your childhood. Decorate your backyard with red-checked tablecloths and wicker baskets full of fresh fruit. Serve food family-style on rustic wooden chopping boards.

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Blue and yellow flowers in a rustic planter placed on stone steps

COFFEE & SIDE TABLES

Cheery blue, white, and yellow flowers call to mind summer breezes along the shore. Sizzle some fish and seafood on the grill for the full seaside experience.

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Artificial rose garland

ENGLISH GARDEN

Celebrate the splendor of a classic rose garden in full bloom. Put a spin on teatime by serving iced tea with your desserts. Lay out blankets and soft cushions to heighten the romantic ambience.

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Rustic table setting

TROPICANA

Have some fun in the sun with rustic tableware and accessories in natural textiles and vibrant green foliage. Serve fruity refreshments in double-walled glass tumblers and toss some corn and pineapple on the grill.

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HOW TO HOST A BARBECUE PARTY: FAQ

Host a backyard BBQ with no stress or fuss by making sure you’re well-prepared. Pick up more practical tips on how to prepare a barbecue party below.

HOW DO I PREPARE MY BACKYARD FOR A PARTY?

Start by assessing the space allocated for the party. Make sure there is ample space for the grill, dining, and guests to mingle comfortably. Thoroughly clean patio furniture, accessories, and décor if they’ve been in storage. Spruce up your garden and bring in more greenery to add to the festive atmosphere.

HOW DO YOU ORGANIZE A BBQ PARTY?

Send invitations 4-6 weeks out from your planned date. Once you’ve finalized your guest list, start planning how much food you’ll need, along with sides and drinks. Prioritize preparing your backyard to accommodate your guests.

HOW DO YOU MAKE A BBQ PARTY FUN?

There are a ton of interesting and interactive games for all ages. Consider giant Jenga sets and other lawn games, a small inflatable pool or a sandbox for younger guests, or an informal poker game. Leave out board games and decks of cards if guests are inclined to play. You can even plan to project a movie onto a large screen set up in your backyard.

We hope these backyard barbecue planning and decorating tips make your next gathering the best one yet. Click the link button to see Balsam Hill’s latest decorations perfect for the spring and summer.

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