One of these days, Mother Nature is going to get her act together. But honestly, we are sick of waiting. So let's throw some spring fever, warm weather vibes out into the universe and plan ourselves a lil' bbq! Here at A Milkhouse Party, we love all things pretty: pretty china, pretty flowers, pretty candles and pretty parties. But sometimes we like to ditch the vintage tea cups and host a cozy, casual event. Who doesn't love an epic bbq?
Tami & Ryan Photography
Set The Vibe
Just because it's a bbq does not mean you have to stick with the traditional gingham tablecloths and paper plates when selecting your decor (though, we certainly won't judge you for it!) Get creative and consider the vibe you want to set for your guests. We love the idea of setting up some lawn games for friends and family to enjoy - we even custom made some of our own! From corn hole to ladder ball to washers, yard games are easy to set up and are fun for all ages.
Tami & Ryan Photography
Not a fan of friendly competition? No problem. Set the tone with playful drink stations and create some intimate seating areas where people can sit, sip, and chat. No need to go out and spend a ton of money. Pick up some unique pieces at your local yard sale, or raid the basement for hidden treasures!
Sometimes, less is more. Add some candles around the space and use fairy lights to add some whimsical, warm lighting as the sun goes down. Turn up the tunes and relax!
Tami & Ryan Photography
Good Eats
This is a bbq, so obviously the food is the star of the show. Choose wisely. We love a good burger and corn on the cob, but let's take that and level it up a bit! We've had the privilege of working with many talented vendors, local to our area. When the owners of Hog Day Afternoon reached out to us, we couldn't resist sampling some of their delicious smoked bbq (and don't get us started on the mac and cheese).
Want to wow your guests? Rent a smoker, or hire the professionals. Not only will your guests have plenty to eat, but it will give you the opportunity to mingle and enjoy yourself. Pulled pork, smoked turkey, veggie kabobs...oh my.
Serve it all up on mix-matched platters, or allow guests to grab their own food from the buffet. We love the idea of using trays lined with parchment paper, like these cuties from Nordicware. Or, find some patterned paper products - they give the appearance of the real deal, with the benefit of an easy clean up!
Single-serve burger trays!
Thanks For Coming
Party favors add a personal touch to any special event, even a good old-fashioned bbq. Send guests home with a little homemade cornbread, wrapped in cellophane and tied up with string. We also love a good homemade jam, stored in a sweet little mason jar.
If you don't feel like spending time in the kitchen baking up all of these goodies, set up a #selfie area. Provide a polaroid camera, or allow guests to use their own devices. Grab a few photo booth props from amazon and hang some fabric and Christmas lights from a nearby tree! Not only will everyone walk away with a little memento, but they will capture all of the epic-ness and fun in pictures that will last a lifetime.
Tami & Ryan Photography | Treats by Stephen Wilson and Jill McClennon
Vendor highlight: Hog Day Afternoon | https://www.hogdaycatering.com | 609-238-6460