Barbecue parties are a highlight of the summer season, providing us with an excuse to gather loved ones and make sunshine-filled memories to look back on in years to come. And if we want to host a roaringly successful gathering, we need the right tools and equipment to get the party going.
From the best grills for outdoor cooking to glamorous garden party decoration ideas, barbecue essentials really do make a world of difference to both you and your guests. They'll help your hosting duties run smoothly, taking care of the finer details and allowing you to soak up the sun and enjoy the moment.
Whether you're preparing a small backyard for summer hosting or making the most of a spacious outdoor area, we've rounded up the barbecue essentials that will make entertaining feel like a breeze.
1. Pretty but practical furniture
The right outdoor furniture set-up can make all the difference to your occasion, and it's key to invest in pieces that are comfortable for your guests, suit your yard style, are portable enough to be moved around for different group setups, and are practical enough to cope with greasy fingerprints or spillages.
'When you are hosting a barbecue party, you want your guests to be comfortable while sitting outside, so look for outdoor sofas or chairs that are comfortable and easy to get in and out of,' Mike Fretto, Creative Director at Neighbor advises. 'Beyond that, remember that barbecues can get messy. There is a good chance some sauce might drip or get splattered on your outdoor furniture.'
Rattan and wicker pieces are ideal for those who prefer natural textures and earthy tones, but metal furniture can also look chic, and add a pop of color or an ornate, European feel.
This chair looks as stylish as it does comfortable thanks to its webbed seat, and it's foldable too, making it easily portable. The blue colorway may be forgiving when it comes to spillages, but there's also a chic taupe version.
Whether you're elevating balcony seating ideas or making the most of a quiet corner of the garden, an egg chair is always a good choice. This one from Threshold™ has a rust- and weather-resistant steel frame wrapped in all-weather wicker, providing durability without compromising on design. The plush cushions and armless silhouette will look as inviting to you as they do for your guests.
Bright and cheerful, this set is not only affordable and practical – wipe spills clean off and pack it away neatly when not in use – it also brings a lively pop of color to summer barbecues. It's ideal for breakaway groups at large parties.
2. Stylish serveware that sticks around
When it comes to outdoor serveware, practicality doesn't need to mean compromising on style. There are so many wonderful summer table decor ideas that incorporate pieces able to withstand the elements and lots of use.
'For outdoor gatherings like barbecues, I always recommend durable yet beautiful serveware that makes hosting easier and more enjoyable,' says Iryna Kolosvetova, Creative Director and Table Styling Expert at Fine Dining 4 Home. 'I love using large wooden boards for grilled meats and veggies – they’re functional and add a rustic charm.'
Melamine is a fail-safe option, being both lightweight and durable and sets are available in a range of stylish designs, allowing you to get creative with barbecue tablescapes. And when it comes to drinks, you can't go wrong with acrylic glassware, as it's virtually unbreakable, but in so many different colorways and patterns, you can pick a range to complement your spread. 'For summer gatherings, I always suggest investing in a sturdy pitcher for drinks and a large dispenser for water with citrus or herbs, so guests can help themselves,' Iryna adds.
These plates are perfect for a barbecue get-together. Lightweight yet sturdy, the plates combine practicality with whimsical charm, and while the vibrant fruit design is a winner, there's 14 plate styles to choose from in total. Generously sized at 8.75 inches, they'll allow all the family to load as much barbecued food as their hearts desire.
Keep your guests refreshed with the Fiesta Beverage Dispenser from Lulu and Georgia. Its generous capacity and easy-to-use spigot make it perfect for serving lemonade, iced tea, or infused water. With a ribbed glass design and stylish rattan stand, it's one of the most glamorous barbecue party essentials around.
A sturdy yet stylish option for serving summer salads, sides, or fresh fruit. The Alba Melamine Serving Bowl has a footed base to give it a refined feel, but the intricate green florals make it a beautiful summer table centerpiece.
3. Stylish sun shades
Not everyone loves to bask in the sun, and children and elderly relatives are attending your party, you'll need to provide some shade.
'Sun protection is essential for family barbecues, and if you’re grilling at mid-day, it is even more important,' Azelmat Ismael, a home decorator at Berberorugs LLC says. 'A stylish canvas or gazebo is not only beautiful, but also serves a purpose; it can be decorated with string lights or draped off with fabric for atmosphere.'
Knowing where to place a gazebo is key. With the best base for a gazebo, they can go on patios, decking, and lawns, and will provide a beautiful focal point for the party as well as being a source of shade.
Pretty umbrellas and parasols provide much-needed shade for your food as well, preventing it from drying out or spoiling in the sun. And consider pergola ideas if you're considering a more permanent structure.
The sturdy construction and neutral tones of this gazebo are ideal for backyard covered patio ideas. With mosquito nettings and privacy screens for additional comfort, guests can retreat into the shade and have a moment to relax.
With bamboo ribs and a removable canopy (it comes in seven different colorways to match your scheme), this chic umbrella gives European riviera vibes and will look as chic on your patio as it will pool-side.
Offer your guests a chillout space that's protected from the sun's rays with this elegant day bed and canopy. It's not rain-proof but has a durable powder coating, meaning it can be used outdoors when the weather allows.
4. Outdoor cooking equipment and accessories
Of course, we can't talk about barbecue party essentials without mentioning the cooking equipment itself. You can create the perfect furniture layout, dress the table with the prettiest serveware, and invest in a fabulous gazebo—but none of that is much use if you don't have the right cooking gear.
Pellet grills are a good option for barbecue parties because you can set the temperature and forget about it while entertaining guests. 'Pellet grills are versatile as they will smoke, grill, even bake, and they are easy to use for beginners and pros alike,' celebrity chef and owner of Bear Creek Smokehouse, Robbie Shoults says.
Charcoal grills are also beloved by many because of the classic barbecue flavour they create. Just be prepared to spend more time grilling and less time socialising if you're using a charcoal grill over a pellet.
'You'll also need to make sure you have the proper tools to accompany your smoker, such as gloves, tongs, and a meat thermometer,' Robbie adds. 'All of this will help you manage your smoker and the meat on it. The thermometer will ensure your meat is cooked to perfection and take all the guesswork out of food safety.'
This model was voted the best grill by our expert tester in our buying guide for its ease of use, large cooking area and for producing the tastiest food in the rounds of testing. Plus the reviewer thought it was reasonably priced.
This three-piece set, crafted by renowned French cutlery experts Opinel, includes a folding knife, spatula, and tongs, all made from high-quality stainless steel. The tools are designed for both functionality and elegance.
Make like a pit boss with this Foster & Rye apron in durable canvas, to protect from the heat and spitting fat, useful pockets for stowing tools and stylish leather-look straps.
Barbecue season is officially in swing, and these barbecue party essentials will help you host the perfect summer cookout in style. Read our tips on how to stay cool when hosting outside to make your entertaining duties a breeze.
