How to host the ultimate BBQ this summer

The weather is warming up and that means it’s barbecue season. After the long winter, we deserve to kick off our shoes, bask in the sun and enjoy the smells of a sizzling burger or two. 

If you’re the one hosting a BBQ party, it can still be an enjoyable and relaxing experience if you prepare properly. Getting all the right tools, outdoor seating and entertainment lined up will make things smooth sailing and allow you to join in the fun. 

In this article, the Hills Home & Garden team will take you through how to host a great BBQ this summer so you can really make the most of the weather.

How to host the ultimate BBQ

Every party is unique, but there are some key things you’ll need to consider. Here are our top summer BBQ tips so you can plan in advance.

• Get prepared: A successful barbecue depends on preparation. Here at Hills Home & Garden, we provide a range of high-quality BBQs to achieve the perfect grill. Stocking up on the right BBQ accessories is also vital, including grilling mats, gloves, tools, skewers and aluminium trays. Browse our accessories page to see our full range. 

• Food for all: A juicy burger or a tasty hot dog are barbecue essentials, but you can also get creative with other foods. Vegetable skewers, corn on the cob and grilled fruit are all ways to utilise the grill and serve up something a little different. Catering for vegetarians and vegans has also never been so easy with supermarkets packed full of meat-free options. Set up a toppings and sides bar to give your guests that extra bit of personalisation. Always remember to provide plenty of cold drinks, too!   

• Dine in style: An outdoor dining set will be the centrepiece of your barbecue, and a place for people to gather, enjoy their food and socialise. With dining sets you can also use them as the perfect option for al fresco summer dinners, even when you’re not entertaining, making them a multi-use option for any home. From rustic woven sets for countryside living, to sleek and contemporary aluminium choices for the ultra-modern homeowner, we have something for everyone. 

• Casual seating: Ensure you provide plenty of areas for guests to sit and mingle away from the main dining table. We provide a range of garden chairs to pair with your personal style, ranging from traditional to modern. Garden chairs are also a quiet place for a morning coffee or a place to read when you’re not entertaining. 

• Entertain: When everyone has a full belly, the energy of a party can dip, so make sure you keep everyone entertained from start to finish. Select a playlist to create the right ambience and also consider purchasing novelty straws, napkins and paper cups to set the theme and excite the little ones. Games are also a great way of keeping everyone engaged with the party, especially outdoor activities like frisbee, swingball and bowls.

• Keep things cool: For some people, the sun can be a little intense. Providing cool and shady areas will keep everyone happy and provide a welcome respite for those who find the heat to be too much. One option is pergolas, a shaded, stylish canopy that blocks the harsh sun while still allowing the cool breeze through. We also provide pop-up gazebos, which can be folded away for space-saving convenience.

Ultimately, it will be your personal stamp that will take your barbecue to the next level. All you need to do is make sure you have the right preparation and you’ll be ready to go. 

Get your BBQ essentials all in one place with Hills Home & Garden. We are a leading provider of ultra-stylish outdoor furniture, dining sets, pergolas, gazebos and barbecue accessories for the UK. Simply order online or visit our Kent showroom.