Tips For Hosting A Budget Friendly BBQ!
Get a head count in advance. Be sure when inviting your guests whether with invitations or word of mouth, to mention an RSVP date. You can better prepare by knowing how many guests will be attending. Head counts give you a better handle on how much food and beverages should be purchased and reduces the chance of cooking too much food.
Host a toppings and condiment pot luck. Consider inviting your guests to take part in an BBQ pot luck, requesting each guest brings a unique topping to feature at the party. This will not only increase the amount of toppings and condiments offered, but will make it fun to see what the guests come up with! (Make the pot luck invitation optional).
Find decor and accessories for your BBQ at your local dollar store and other budget friendly retailers. There is no need to spend a ton on decor for your party. Dollar stores are one of many stores known for giving you your biggest bang for your buck, especially when it comes to items like paper plates, plastic cups, forks, knives, and even table cloths.
Use what you’ve got. Because decor and accessories can began to add up if not bought from budget friendly retailers, why not use what you already have such as plates, silverware, and cups?
Check your local supermarkets for deals on hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, and all other foods you would like to serve.
Make a grocery list of exactly what you will need. Lists are a great way to help you stay on task at the grocery store. They also help reduce impulse buying.
Shop in bulk. Warehouse stores are one of the best places to shop when hosting an event or party.
Serve cans and small bottles of beverages. Rather than buying 2 liter bottles of beverages that will most likely be half used and then wasted, keep individual cans and small bottles of soda, water and juice for the guests. Whatever is not used will be used in time rather then running the risk of going flat or becoming unfresh.
Keep dessert simple. Fresh fruit is a great dessert that is not only inexpensive, but basically serves itself. Create a platter for the guests to pick at with toothpicks, but also be sure to offer a fun, inexpensive dessert such as ice cream as well. (Click here to check out my budget friendly tips for hosting your own ice-cream party!)
Don’t forget the music! Set the tone of your barbecue with fun music. Create a play list and save it under “BBQ Music” and reuse it for another party or event.
Keep your grill clean. Once the BBQ is over, be sure to clean the grill properly. Keeping up on the proper maintenance of your grill can help you get the most use out of it year after year.
