5 Tips for Hosting an Adorable Backyard BBQ

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It’s BBQ season! What’s better than inviting friends and family over for burgers on the grill (and cocktails in your glass)? We know that hosting a party can be daunting, but what an incredibly fun chance to get creative and show off your decorating style. Luckily, a few simple tips can help you throw it all together, and we’ve got your shopping list ready to go for setting up the cutest party in town. 

1 – Let the outdoors inspire: The best thing about dining al fresco is that the breathtaking décor is already built right in! Take a cue from Mother Nature and build on the lush greenery and rainbow of fresh flowers. Don’t be afraid to let her casual vibes be your guide…think simple clipped blooms gathered in tall bottles and easy bowls of bright, fresh fruit on the table.

2 – Keep your palette simple: By choosing soft, pretty colours (we went with pale grey, sweet lavender, and vibrant violet), you’ll complement, rather than compete with, the surrounding shades in nature. A little goes a long way, and with such an earthy background, your brightest shade will really pop beautifully. In our case, the violet linen napkins are a real standout against the soft and subtle overall palette and lush green backdrop.

3 – Mix, match, and layer: Sleek silverware, classic glassware, and simple white dishes create a blank canvas. Then the fun starts – layer on interesting textures like linens, stone, and coloured glass. These seagrass placemats add a unique depth to the place settings. Elegant serving boards combine smooth marble and rich wood. There is no right or wrong way to put it all together – the key is mixing it up!

4 – Make it cozy: Your set-up can look good, but nothing matters if your guests aren’t comfy! So create an atmosphere that is so cozy and so relaxing, you’ll have to kick them out at the end of the night. Keep lightweight throw blankets (these are so pretty, they easily double as shawls) on hand to drape around chilly shoulders as night falls. Add fluffy cushions to sink back into as you talk long past dessert. Various low and broad pillar candles will let the party glow on as the sun goes down.

5 – Get joyful with the details: Your place to really shine is in the little accents. From beachy nautical knot napkin ties to a country-style mason jar drink pitcher, splurge on a few items that catch your eye, then work with pieces you already have. Don’t over do it; the thrown-together impression is what makes this casual look so sophisticated, and so successful. Your guests will already be planning to come back for seconds.

What’s your tip for the ultimate backyard BBQ? Have a gorgeous place setting to share? Tag us on Instagram with @StVitalCentre – we’d love to see!

See some pieces to add to your backyard décor? Visit these St. Vital Centre retailers to shop the post (check stores for availability):

Plates: Chapters, $12 (small), $14 (large) 
Square "charger": Chapters $25 (small), $35 (large) Seagrass placemat: Chapters, $14 Napkins: Chapters, $24.50 (set of 4)
Napkin rings: Chapters, $5.50
Cutlery: London Drugs (Corelle), $ 29.99 (20 pc) Wine glasses: London Drugs (Libbey), $14.99 (4 pc) Water glasses: London Drugs (Anchor), $19.99 (16 pc) Blankets: Sears, $59.99
Pillows: Chapters, $49.50
Marble/wood board: Chapters, $38
Candles: London Drugs, $2.99 - 6.99
Lantern: Hudson's Bay, $24.99
Glass carafe (vase): Chapters, $19.50
Beverage dispenser: London Drugs, $14.99
Ash & wood salad bowl: Chapters, $49.50
Salad tongs: Chapters, $19.50
Ceramic berry basket: Chapters, $14.50

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