Discover the ingredients needed to host a successful summer BBQ with expert tips and advice from some of our top outdoor brands
Summer has officially arrived and with it comes outdoor entertaining and backyard barbecues. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the essentials that are needed to host a successful backyard BBQ, including stylish accessories that are sure to impress your guests and common pitfalls to avoid when planning an outdoor gathering. We had the opportunity to interview some of our favorite outdoor brands, who generously shared their expert advice and tips, ensuring that you have all the necessary ingredients for the perfect backyard BBQ experience.
Pictured: Woodbridge Harvest Dining TAble O-LL501-47
What are the essential pieces that you believe are necessary for a successful backyard BBQ?
At Furnitureland South, we have everything you need to host an unforgettable summer party. From outdoor lighting options and enchanting lanterns to set the mood, to fire pits that create the perfect space for warm gatherings, outdoor accessories play a pivotal role in setting the ambiance for your outdoor gathering.
"Keep the décor simple and classy."
-Made Goods
We asked the Marketing team of Made Goods about the essential pieces that are needed to have a successful backyard barbecue: Ambiance and décor of course! If it’s an evening backyard soiree, plenty of mood lighting with outdoor pendants plus candles with hurricanes in varying sizes and heights scattered around will set the tone. Keep the décor simple and classy. Have varying sizes of Alcoy baskets to keep umbrellas, beach balls, or blankets handy for your guests."
Pictured: Yardley Side Table FURYARDLESTBGY | Avani XL SQR Tray Set OBJAVANITRXLSQGYS2 | Garrison Sofa MG GARRISON SOFA | Speak to a Design Consultant for details.
Add Lighting for Ambiance
The gentle flicker of candlelight and the glow of hurricanes can add a mesmerizing touch to any outdoor table setting. These two paired together can create a sense of charm and elegance, making an outdoor space feel cozy and romantic.
"We love adding hurricanes to any tablescape. Use them to add candlelight to your settings or fill the glass with freshly cut stems for a floral centerpiece, said the Marketing team of Made Goods. You can easily create an intimate and inviting ambiance that sets the perfect mood for al fresco dining or evening gatherings by including hurricanes in your tablescape.
Another great option are portable lights, which can be precharged to allow your guests a great atmosphere long after dark.
Pictured: Gloster Ambeint Pebble Table Lamp in Fire Terracotta 101385 and Carbon Meteor 101384
Can you provide some suggestions for accessories that can add a touch of style and make your outdoor space pop?
By adding accessories, you can put the final touches on your outdoor space, taking it to the next level and creating an elevated ambiance. From charming lanterns to gorgeous outdoor planters, we have a stunning collection of outdoor accessories that will set the perfect mood for unforgettable summer nights and parties.
"Oversized planters with bright florals or tall palms add a touch of opulence to any outdoor space, instantly transforming it into a lush paradise , said Alyssa from Eichholtz. Outdoor planters have the remarkable ability to transform your backyard into a lush oasis, adding a touch of natural beauty and tranquility to the space. By incorporating plants into your outdoor living area, you not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also enjoy the benefits of improved mood, reduced stress, and a greater sense of well-being. At Furnitureland South, we have planters in different shapes, sizes, and colors to create your lush and tropical paradise right in your own backyard.
Pictured: Ocean Club Outdoor Planter 113647 | Bell Rive Outdoor Dining Table 113620 | Paladium Outdoor Dining Arm Chair 113619
Pillows make it POP!
If you re looking to infuse your outdoor space with a vibrant burst of color while simultaneously elevating the comfort level, then pillows are the way to go. With their versatile nature and variety of designs, patterns, and hues available, these decorative accessories provide the perfect opportunity to add a personalized touch and create an inviting atmosphere in your outdoor oasis. Whether you prefer bold and striking colors or subtle and soothing tones, pillows allow you to effortlessly incorporate your desired aesthetic and create a visually captivating space that exudes comfort and style.
Looking to make a statement? Consider mixing stripes with a tropical pattern for a dynamic expression:
Perfomance fabrics have come a long way.
"Pillows are a great way to infuse color and personality, not to mention style and comfort , said Greg Voorhis, Executive Design Director from Sunbrella. At Furnitureland South, there’s sure to be a pillow to fit your aesthetic. From oversized throw pillows to bolsters and beyond, you can find options both at the Sunbrella gallery and throughout the outdoor showroom. Furnitureland South also has a variety of pillows from designer Elaine Smith, all crafted with premium performance of Sunbrella fabrics. You can find even more fabrics and pillows in the Sunbrella gallery located on the first floor of The Showroom.
Pictured: Elaine Smith Pillow Collection
What are some common pitfalls or things to avoid when planning an outdoor BBQ?
When speaking to our brand partners regarding the potential pitfalls of hosting outdoor gatherings, a common thread emerged: the scarcity of seating and the lack of diverse seating options. Often overlooked, this factor holds significant importance in ensuring the comfort and enjoyment of your guests. Rest assured, Furnitureland South offers a diverse range of seating options that will not only elevate your hosting skills but also prioritize the comfort of your guests. From relaxing dining chairs to comfortable loungers, our wide selection of seating choices allows you to create an inviting atmosphere where your guests can relax and enjoy every moment of your outdoor gathering.
Pictured: Four Hands Bandera Outdoor DIning Chair JLAN-131A | Atherton Outdoor Dining Table JSOL-019A
Offer a variety of seating options.
"To make guests feel invited, it’s important to offer a variety of seating options. Whether it’s for lounging, dining, or conversation, having different vignettes depending on the purpose creates a more intentional environment , said Alyssa.
The marketing team of Made Goods emphasized that not having enough seating is a common pitfall. Our Elias coffee tables serve a dual purpose. With cushioned tops, these tables offer a cozy seating option for guests whenever additional seats are required, ensuring comfort and convenience.
Look for furniture that can serve multiple purposes. Stools can often be used as seating when guests are present, but plant stands or drink tables when they are not.
Pictured: (right) Made Goods Elias Coffee Table in Azure FURELIASCF2412AZ | (below) Four Hands Teak Stool 102364-004
Offer comfort and style
“At Eichholtz we believe outdoor is an extension of our luxury interiors,” said Marketing Director of Eichholtz, Alyssa Abrams. “Having the comfort and style of interior products designed for outdoor use means you can enjoy a seamless lifestyle between both spaces.” Some outdoor essentials are lounge sofas like the Outdoor Sofa Residenza from the Laguno Collection, as well as an oversized dining table for summer entertaining like the Vistamar Collection.”
Pictured: Vistamar Outdoor Dining Table 115001 | Delta Outdoor Dining Chair 115003
Be prepared for messes
In addition to setting the ambiance and mood with décor, it’s important to be prepared for any messes or spills that may occur while everyone is having a blast. As a great host, you will need furniture and fabrics that can withstand the challenges of an eventful gathering. At Furnitureland South, we understand the importance of durability and convenience. That's why we provide a wide range of high-quality furniture and performance fabrics that are designed to stand the test of time. With weather-resistant and nonfading fabrics, you can relax and enjoy your party without worrying about the aftermath. Our expert Design Consultants can help you create a space where fun memories can be made without sacrificing style or peace of mind.
Furnishings Director of Sunbrella, Sarah Dooley, touched on the importance of having easy-to-clean fabrics: Having easy-to-clean fabrics for your outdoor space is essential for hassle-free maintenance and longevity. With the unpredictability of weather, outdoor elements, and unexpected messes, durable and washable fabrics allow you to effortlessly maintain a fresh and inviting outdoor environment, ensuring that your space remains clean, comfortable, and ready to be enjoyed at any time.
Pictured: Teak Monterey Collection by Three Birds Casual | 2 Seat Sofa MT60 | Deep Seating Arm Chair MT 50
“This might go without saying, but no BBQ would be complete without the sauce. If you are from North Carolina, you’re likely familiar with the Eastern vs. Western BBQ sauce divide. Eastern-NC style sauce is based on vinegar and peppers, while Western-NC sauce is tomato-based.” No matter where you and your guests fall in the great sauce debate, having high-performance and easy-to-clean fabrics that are stain resistant and durable for your outdoor dining areas allows you to relax in style without having to worry about any saucy spills and messes that may ensue.
Pro Tip: To clean up messes like BBQ sauce (or popsicles):
- Brush off loose dirt or debris and blot (don't rub) liquid spills with a clean, dry cloth.
- Prepare a solution of 1 teaspoon (4 ml) of dishwashing liquid per 1 cup (250 ml) of lukewarm water, or use Sunbrella Clean™ Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner.
- Spray a light mist evenly over the entire area.
- Use a soft bristle brush to clean, allowing the cleaning solution to soak into the fabric.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
- Allow fabric to air dry.
Keep cool in the shade
One common challenge when hosting outdoor barbeques is the lack of protection for guests from the summer heat and hot sun. However, this can be easily addressed by incorporating umbrellas or even pergolas into your outdoor setup. Umbrellas offer a convenient and versatile shade solution, while pergolas provide a more permanent and stylish option. Depending on your specific requirements, our Design Consultants can assist you in finding the perfect shade solution that ensures the comfort and well-being of your guests.
Choose your shading based on your space
“When selecting shade for your outdoor area, the first thing to consider is what type of shade structure you want for your home,” said Greg from Sunbrella. “You need to be sure it will work well in your space. Whether you need shade to cover your whole patio, an outdoor dining area, or to create a backyard oasis, a shade structure with Sunbrella will create the perfect space for you. For focused shading on a dining area or outdoor lounge, an umbrella is the perfect flexible option. Umbrellas can be moved as needed for protective cover when and where you want it.”
Pictured: Summer Classics 9' Crank Auto Tilt Umbrella 7562 | Bali Teak Sofa 2953 | Bali Teak Lounge Chair 2952 | Croquet Teak 40" Round Coffee Table 2839 | Croquet Teak End Table 2836
Host with confidence
Our brand partners Sunbrella, Eichholtz, and Made Goods gave wonderful insights and tips to create the perfect space for your next outdoor gathering. A successful backyard BBQ requires careful consideration of both style and functionality. By incorporating stylish accessories like lanterns, outdoor planters, and vibrant pillows, you can create a visually appealing and inviting outdoor space. Additionally, providing ample seating options, including versatile coffee tables that double as seating, ensures the comfort of your guests throughout the gathering. To protect your guests from the summer heat, umbrellas or pergolas offer practical and stylish shade solutions. Finally, choosing durable and easy-to-clean fabrics for your outdoor furniture guarantees a worry-free experience while maintaining a stylish aesthetic. With Furnitureland South's extensive range of outdoor furniture and accessories, you can confidently host unforgettable outdoor gatherings and backyard BBQs that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Picture: Universal Del Mar Dining Table UD12622 | Seneca Dining Table UD12753