No doubt every family in Northern Ireland have had at least one BBQ over the last week. Team Arbutus have definitely catered for their fair share, from private parties, weddings, anniversaries and much more. 

Here, we have deiced to share a few tips with you for your next BBQ party. 
 
Set-up smart
Buffet style is the only way to go, with one area for dishing up food and another for sitting down and eating. Make sure that you keep plates and cutlery pre-rolled in napkins to make it as simple as possible for your guests. 

Make a toppings station
Let your guests do their own toppings on their burgers and hot dogs with a range of toppings laid out for them. Include a variety of ketchup and the traditional mustard. Don't forget the cheese and onions!

Jazz up your burgers
Don't be affraid to add ingredients. Garlic, BBQ sauce, relish etc are all good ways to get away from a plain burgers. Also, don't forget about the children who are more than likely going to want a plain burger and bap.  

Cool down in style
Give your summer drinks a fun twist by making fruity ice cubes. Another way to wow your guests is to freeze edible flowers within the ice cubes.  Drinks will look so pretty and summery.

Don't skip the sides
Depending on the number of guests, you'll want a selection and sides are also an easy way to bulk out the plates. Choose a simple potato salad, coleslaw or sweet potatoes fries.  

Don't forget dessert
This is one of the most commonly made mistakes at any party. 
Keep it simple. Fresh fruit salad, fresh cream and ice cream are perfect and not forgetting ice lollies for the little ones. 

Tidy as you go
Let guests help clean up by placing a few clearly-labelled buckets or bins outside. That way, guests can just toss plastic plates and cutlery in the proper recycling bin when they're finished and you'll have much less to do once they've all gone.