For close-knit communities, neighborhood BBQs are a huge part of summertime. Friends, neighbors, and loved ones gather for an afternoon and evening of good food and better company—often with their families in tow, which means a bunch of rambunctious kiddos, lots of giggles, and more reason for you to prep your backyard for summertime fun.
Upgrade Your Deck and Comfortable Outdoor Furniture
Rebuild or renovate your deck to accommodate upwards of a dozen people or more, with loads of comfortable outdoor furniture, like chaise lounges and wrap-around deck benches. Make sure the cushions are plush and comfy, and a roll-away shade protects against inclement weather while still allowing your guests to enjoy each other’s company.
Line Your Home with Summertime Blooms
Have you ever seen those beautiful homes with gorgeous flowers lining all sides of a house? Do this with yours. Plant summertime flowerbeds alongside your home for a colorful presentation that your guests can admire.
Fence in Your Backyard as a Safe Kids Play Place
Parents will thank you! Put a fence around the perimeter of your backyard and add a playground at one end, complete with a sandbox and weather-proofed picnic table. This will give kids a safe place to play, while their parents are free to enjoy conversation without worrying what their youngsters are getting into.
Keep Your BBQ Setup to the Side, Out of the Way of Guests and Their Kids
Designate one part of your deck for your BBQ setup, like your grille, accessories, and grille covers. This will ensure no kids run into your BBQ stuff, while adults won’t get breeze-blown smoke in their faces. Looking to serve more than steaks and off-the-grill goodies? Snag a hot chicken warmer to keep those rotisserie favorites ready to serve with a side of BBQ sauce.
Create an Enclosed Firepit for Lounging and Conversations into the Night
After everyone has eaten and enjoyed awesome dinner conversation, suggest moving to an enclosed firepit area for more talk and maybe a glass of wine or two. Let the kiddos munch on smores.
Tip: Install outdoor lights around the kids’ playground to give them the option of continuing to play while you and your adult guests enjoy the roaring fire.
