A BBQ is a simple, relaxing event in theory, but it is all too easy for things to go wrong if you do not follow the rules of BBQ etiquette. The rules are easy enough to remember but make a great difference to the barbecuing experience.
So read on if you want to know more about BBQ etiquette and how to have a fine BBQ experience.
Plan ahead
Planning ahead is important if you want to have an unforgettable BBQ experience with your family and friends.
Start by picking a date, and you can begin planning your summer BBQs as early as January.
To pick a date you could create a poll to make sure that everyone is available. However, it is advised to give your guests as few decisions as possible to avoid the date never being set. And it’s your BBQ so as the host you should be making all the leadership decisions.
Make sure to be kind enough to let your neighbours know of the date, and if you like them enough then invite them.
Make an invite list
An occasion like a barbecue can easily be hijacked when you, the BBQ king or queen, are forced to invite people who ruin social events. But don’t worry, below is a list of people to keep out of the invite list, so if you follow the instructions you will be sure to have a BBQ that’s so talked about that guests will have to be VIPs to be invited to your next one.
Your toxic ex
Your BBQ is not the time to get everyone together, nor is it the occasion to get together with Mr. On-and-Off.
By inviting your ex or anyone else’s you and your guests will be made to feel uncomfortable and that’s just not the vibe you should be going for.
Your problematic family member
Some have embarrassing family members and others are related to villains. We have all heard of the opinionated and controversial uncle and the crazy aunt, save yourself the drama and don’t invite them.
Yes, your grandma might threaten you not to come but don’t risk your friendships by keeping such family members close.
The guy who never brings anything and always eats too much
As the host it is your responsibility to ensure there is enough food for everyone, how can you do that if a guest of yours refuses to share and demolishes your food before anyone else can get another bite in?
This type of guest usually never brings a meal to the BBQ but will make sure to have thirds and fourths before you’ve had your first.
If this guest wants to be invited, they must bring enough food to cover their portion.
The virtue signaler
As much as BBQs are about bonding, they are not about politics, unless the subjects are discussed peacefully.
It is advised to ban all political t-shirts and to encourage your guests to keep their differences aside.
The bad drunk
If you have made the mistake of inviting a bad drunk then you can attempt refusing them alcohol. However, rather than dealing with their antics, try to know your guests before you invite them by going out with them socially.
A bad drunk might be a bad guest because they are careless to themselves and others. For the safety of others, and for the sanctity of your BBQ, please refuse entry to bad drunks.
Mrs. Negative
Have you ever met someone who has never had anything good to say? Well, if you have then don’t invite them as you can’t have good times with negative people.
Don’t let negativity drain your energy and take your peace, when you should be having the most restful and restorative BBQ day.
Cater for all dietary requirements
It might be daunting catering to various dietary requirements so create a dietary form to have your guests complete ahead of time.
Make sure to prioritise the guests with specific dietary requirements but keep in mind that some people might, for example, opt for a vegetarian option despite not being vegetarians so make sure to have extra for those instances.
Make sure you know how to use a BBQ
BBQs can easily be ruined by the person who can’t work the BBQ or worse doesn’t know how to stop the meat from burning.
As the host it is your job to light the BBQ and learn how to use a BBQ charcoal grill.
It is not too difficult as long as you have all the essential tools like:
- Tongs
- Spatula
- BBQ fork
- Grill brush
- Heat resistant gloves
- Meat thermometer
- Skewers
- Grill basket
- Apron
- Plates
Feel free to copy and paste this list into your notes, amending as you wish.
And make sure to not throw out your BBQ instruction manual. Read it, youtube it or ask the expert to take over the cooking.
Provide non-alcoholic beverages
Not everyone will drink alcohol. Maybe they are the designated driver, maybe they are pregnant but don’t want to say. Or maybe it goes against their religion, but no guest should have to explain why they aren’t drinking alcohol.
And it’s up to the host to provide great alternatives, like:
- Fizzy drinks
- Mocktails
- Non/low alcoholic drinks
- Juice
- Water
Final thoughts
To have a ‘fine BBQ experience’ be courteous, hardworking and willing to sharpen up your barbecuing skills.
A major part of BBQ etiquette is planning ahead, making sure no detail is missed, and that everyone has something they can eat.
And don’t forget to only invite who you want. Stick to inviting people who reinforce the chill, fun BBQ feeling.
