One of the challenges of event planning is creating new and novel experiences while also staying true to tradition. Case in point: the summer barbecue.
This American pastime is a coveted warm-weather staple, and it’s personally one of my favorite aspects of summertime. And although you may think barbecues are bland, I’m here to say that it’s actually loved because it’s boring. The predictable customs, non-fussy menu, and charmingly-classic format makes everyone feel like a kid again and evokes a simpler place and time.
So don’t back down from a barbecue. Instead, I challenge you to embrace its kitschy nature and build one that’s both memorable and a tiny bit modern. Here’s my barbecue blueprint. It’s yours to steal:
Every good performance needs acts, so I like to divide the event into three timeframes: Daytime, dusk, and darkness. Then I orchestrate the food, and activities into those “acts” of my play.
Daytime means lawn games and firing up the grill. Don’t be afraid to potluck the party. Assign specific guests to bring condiments, buns, snacks, sides, and drinks. Your role as host? Party atmosphere and the world’s best burger.
I personally swear by this mouth-watering (and fool-proof) burger recipe from Bon Appetit and I’ve never had any complaints.
Setting up a few tents for shade will also go a long way in keeping guests comfortable and providing separate spaces for the party. And as far as games go, I’m a big fan of slam ball and a can-frisbee game called Kan Jam.
Have guests BYO percussion instruments, and purchase a few of your own to add to your party closet. I like tambourines, rhythm bongos, and percussion blocks.
Now is the time for fun party lighting, too. Attaching simple string lights to the tents you used during the day can bring energy back to the lawn. And a single moving light near your speakers will draw eyes and happy feet to the “dance floor.”
Finally, surprise your guests with roaming trays of chilled toasting shots. Premix your favorite summery beverage–I like cucumber with gin or spicy tequila concoctions – and pour them into disposable shot glasses for easy access. This is one of my favorite things to do, especially towards the end of the evening. Encourage celebratory dedications with each toast.
And don’t forget to toss one back yourself for the badass barbecue you crafted.
Ben Hindman is co-founder and CEO of Splash, the country's fastest-growing event marketing platform that helps businesses and brands more effectively market through their events.
An event planner turned tech entrepreneur, events are in Ben’s DNA. Prior to starting Splash, Ben was the Director of Events at Thrillist, where he produced large-scale events from concerts to mystery fly-aways. He also co-founded the invite-only Summit Series, a premier event which attracts the world's leading entrepreneurs. Before that, Ben founded and sold DC By Foot, DC's only free walking tour company. In another life, Ben goes by Benny Beatbox, and has performed at the White House and on stage with Naughty by Nature – but not at the same time.