Maybe we’re peaking a little early, and maybe it’s just wishful thinking, but we can’t help but feel that barbeque season will soon be upon us. We’ve gotten through the winter, and it’s seemed to have lasted forever, but now we are more hopeful for hot days and long light evenings. The end is near, and we are soon due a visit from our old friend the sun.
The last barbeque you hosted may seem like a distant memory, and you could feel out of touch and unprepared, but never fear. CNM Online; a leading UK provider of outdoor heating, have provided their top considerations to refresh your memory and get you back into the swing of things.
- The first thing to think about is your garden. If you’re anything like us you may have left it a little neglected over the winter months, but now the ice has melted it’s time to start attending to its every need again. The mower needs to come out, the weeds need to be plucked from their hiding places, and any slabs may need a power hosing.
- Once your garden is sorted you’re going to need a few essentials. The first is a barbeque itself (obvious, we know), the second is a decent sized outdoor table and chairs, the third is an outdoor bin, and the fourth is a small gazebo. It can be a really nice touch to have the food underneath some shelter, it keeps it in the shade and can deter any bugs from feasting on it before your guests.If you want your barbeque to go down in the history books there are a few other optional extras to consider. Outdoor heating ( my favorite is a fire pit) adds a real touch of luxury as the sun sets and the evening starts, as even on the warmest of days it doesn’t stay too warm during the nights. The part will be able to go on for longer and your guests will feel more comfortable.
- The food. The main part of any barbeque. Think outside the box, always have some veggie options available and get creative. Sure, you can’t beat a good old fashioned burger and hotdog, but some nicely seasoned kebab skewers and an impressive range of sides and salads will really get your guests talking. Use the internet, especially Pinterest to find some impressive recipes.
- Think entertainment. No matter how funny your novelty chefs apron is or how great the music selection, a few party games never go a miss. There are loads of options available when you’re hosting a barbeque, and outdoor games that can be sourced for minimum cost. Think badminton, limbo and musical chairs, and these aren’t just for the kids, especially once the vino is flowing!
- Warn your neighbours! We’ve all been guilty of getting caught up in the moment and being louder than we realise, or one drink turning to two and an afternoon barbeque turning into a bit of a party into the evening, our advice is to give your neighbours a heads up. A little courtesy goes a long way!
So here hoping that summer and barbecue times are just around the corner!
It’s amazing the difference between the UK and Ireland during the Summer. We would be lucky to get a few days of barbeque weather this summer! Last Summer, while I was on maternity leave and I had all the intentions of doing up the garden, it rained all bloody summer! Praying for at least 2 weeks of Sunshine in the Republic this year!! Thanks for the tips! Would love a fire pit, how awesome would that be?
The sun is out. I can almost smell the summer BBQs. At least our extension and garden is finally ready to host one!
That’s right. Those backyard BBQs are the best!