To me, nothing screams summertime quite like a good barbecue, cookout or picnic. You know everyone else is thinking the same thing when you walk outside and smell charcoal and sizzling burgers. Barbecues are all about taking advantage of the warm weather to gather your friends and family outside for one the most basic acts of community and caring: breaking bread.
Image credits: Row 1: Luxe and Lillies, Oh Darling! via Southern Weddings, The Happy Couple via Brides; Row 2: Gabe Aceves via Southern Weddings, Jonathan Ong via Eat, Drink, Chic; Row 3: (Once Like a Spark) Photography via Every Last Detail, Green Wedding Shoes, Bella Grace Studios via Southern Weddings
Whether you’re planning a casual rehearsal dinner, engagement party or just trying to get some good grub on the table, the basics are the same. Ditch the fancy china and head outdoors — just don’t forget a sunhat and some bug spray!
A. Grab a blanket and pop a squat on the grass. We love this tablecloth for its summery berry pattern, but also because spilled barbecue sauce blends right in!
B. Ain’t nothin’ we love more than an adorable koozie! Keep your hands warm and dry while sporting your monogram.
C. Gingham basket liners are perfect for catching cole slaw drips and corralling hush puppies.
D. Leave the fancy ceramic berry baskets at home. These cute wooden baskets are ideal for passing around strawberries and blueberries.
E. No one wants a fly in their drink! These mason jar sippers keep a top on your drink while sporting a straw for easy hydration in between games of cornhole or frisbee.
F. Pull your hair back (and away from dripping barbecue sauce!) with this fabric headband.
G. A handy kitchen towel goes a long way for the grill master. We like the cheeky reminder on this option.
H. Versatile, biodegradable and fun-sized, these sporks are the only utensil you’ll need for baked beans and strawberry shortcake.
I. Dress up your outdoors a bit with sunny patterned bunting.
J. We know barbecues are finger-lickin’ good, but don’t forget the moist wipes for those extra sticky fingers. Find a site to customize them for extra fun.
K. Y’all know no gathering’s complete without a pie! Bring your mama’s best recipe in this fluted dish.
What are your summer barbecue essentials?
Looking for more Summer in the South? Check out our last post: A Day at the Lake.
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