BBQ Money-Saving Tips + Checklist

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Make your next BBQ a success with this check-list!

  1. First, go here to print off this helpful checklist
  2. Choose your venue! Will this be a backyard BBQ, a BBQ in the park or a beachside grilling session? If you’re holding your BBQ in a public space, be sure to reserve a grill ahead of time and check local Covid restrictions.
  3. Check out our Summer Pinterest board here
  4. Plan the guest list and maximize your available space. 
  5. Set up a DIY Hot Dog bar, here's how!
  6. Send out the invites to get the ball rolling. Facebook invites make it easy and free.
  7. Buy the basic supplies: get cheap, bright, and patriotic paper plates, napkins, and cutlery.
  8. Consider hosting a Clam Bake instead of the typical BBQ
  9. Plan your decor: will your BBQ be specifically patriotic, or will you go with a summer-theme? For a patriotic event, buy mini flags, star-spangled garlands, and plenty of other red, white, and blue goodies. For a summer-focused event, go for a tropical vibe with tiki torches, mini umbrellas, and other island-centered decor! Balloons and streamers are great for any event.
  10. Plan your main course. Make sure to have a couple of meat options–hamburgers, hotdogs, ribs, chicken are all great options!  Make sure to have vegetarian course as well. If you do choose to grill some veggies, make sure you grill them first, out of courtesy to the vegetarians.
  11. A Burger Bar with all the fixins is another fun idea
  12. Have some fun with side dishes. While some chips or crackers and cheese will do just fine, side dishes are your time to shine. Think potato salad or coleslaw, and help guests to remember your BBQ fare for years!
  13. Set up a condiment station with ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, pickles, and whatever else you think your guests might enjoy.
  14. Add a couple of ready made fruit platters and vegetable platters on the side.
  15. Fill your cooler with beer, soda and juice galore–but don’t forget the water bottles! We like filling those large plastic 
  16. Brownies, chocolate chip cookies and make your own ice cream sundaes are always winners for dessert.
  17. Plan your server station: find a couple of tables, tablecloths, serving dishes, and serving spoons. Arrange your station so that guests can move in and out in an orderly fashion; buffet style does the trick.
  18. On the day of, slather up in some sunscreen, set up the stereo outdoors, and enjoy!

See our BBQ Pinterest Board for More!