3 Tips to Elevate Your Backyard BBQ

It’s natural for guests to gravitate towards one area at gatherings. Create a sense of movement and facilitate mingling by arranging patio furniture in multiple seating areas. Pro tip: Break up an outdoor seating set into a few different seating arrangements, adding complementary seating options like Adirondacks or loveseats to create a look that’s cohesive but not too matchy.

Likewise, aim to place food and beverages in different areas to create an organic flow, and make sure you have enough accent tables for guests to rest drinks and snacks on. For a sit-down occasion, set your outdoor dining table ahead of time and confirm that there’s plenty of seating and table space, so nothing feels too cramped or crowded. And if you’re entertaining in the heat, a perfect summer cookout idea is to incorporate misting fans to keep guests feeling fresh, even if the temperature or humidity is at an all-time high.

You don’t necessarily need an ornate spread to be a good host. Creating an ambiance can be as simple as selecting the right serving pieces—think bar carts, trays, and coolers—that are as stylish as they are functional.

Swapping out small accessories like throw pillows or poufs is an affordable and easy way to refresh the look of existing furniture. And of course, the best outdoor accent is potted greenery. No green thumb? Opt for faux greenery, which is virtually maintenance-free and adds the same organic element as natural plants.