A well-planned barbeque can be a welcome sign that summer is in full swing. A simple dish using fresh ingredients and a grill is a great way to entertain your friends and family while enjoying the sunshine. We've compiled a list to make your barbeque as easy as possible. 

When you're choosing what kind of grill to use, it's important to think about the number of people you are planning on grilling for. If you are planning on cooking for over ten people, choose either a larger outdoor grill or two small ones that can feed one family at a time.

Here are some tips on how to host a perfect event in 5 easy steps!

Step 1: Keep It Casual

The best thing about these types of gatherings is the relaxed atmosphere. You don't have to worry about getting dressed up or making it anywhere specific at a certain time. Make sure you have enough seating for everyone, but allow people to move around if they want to get out of their chairs from time to time. If you're planning on serving beer or wine coolers, make sure you have plastic cups and ice on hand for everyone.

Step 2: Keep It Clean

You don't want any slipping and sliding! Lay down a tarp or plastic sheeting over the grass to protect you and your guests from dirt and mud. For some added style, try to stay in the same color palette when it comes to tablecloths, plates, silverware, etc.

Step 3: Keep It Fresh

To keep things fun and delicious, plan different dishes that are easy to make ahead of time. Ask each guest to bring something that compliments what you're serving or coordinate with friends who are great cooks so they can help out in the kitchen. Whether it's chips & dip, fruit salad, potato salad, or pasta salad - make enough to feed everyone.

Step 4: Keep It Moving

No one wants to watch your grill all day, so keep it simple with some hot dogs or hamburgers for some protein while still leaving room for dessert! Throw on some brats if you're looking to mix it up a bit. Once the main course is cooked and put out, let everyone serve themselves and enjoy their meal. If you're not confident in your barbeque skills, you can always order take-out from a local restaurant or even just bake something at home and bring it along.

Step 5: Keep It Sweet

Forget about the ice cream truck - adults love their booze too! Put out a selection of drinks such as beer, wine coolers, and soda. Then, you can either serve simple desserts like ice cream, cookies, and cake or do something that really impresses your guests. Mini-parfaits in glass cups are a great way to end the meal! They look festive, and they're easy for everyone to grab when they are walking around.

Test Run

If you have extra time before your event, try doing some test runs at home so you can get the hang of preparing everything beforehand - the tri tip steak from Creme De La Crumb is to die for. It will help take some stress off during the event when there are lots of other things going on!

And there you have it - the perfect barbeque in 5 easy steps! So gather up your friends and family and enjoy an amazing summer day together in your backyard with these helpful tips!