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Updated Aug 17, 202215 Backyard Barbecue Ideas for a Fun Wedding Reception
Who doesn't love BBQs?
Tin Sparrow Studio
Borrow the best parts of backyard grill parties to create a spring or summer wedding that stays true to the red, white and blue. When your wedding lands on a summer holiday like Memorial Day, Fourth of July or Labor Day, adding a dose of patriotism only adds to the celebration. Here are 15 ways to take barbecue favorites and spin them to work at your engagement party, rehearsal dinner or wedding reception.
1. Outdoor Accessories
Have outdoor-friendly accessories on hand for guests, like hats, sunnies and sunscreen.
From: A Low-Key Backyard Wedding at a Private Residence in Gladwyne, Pennsylvania
2. Seasonal Blooms
Stick to seasonal summer blooms like dahlias, clematis and garden roses for the freshest stems.
From: A Colorful, Whimsical Wedding at a Private Estate in Sonoma, California
3. Patriotic Accessories
Red, white and blue accessories, from bow ties to patterned socks, is an easy way to nod to a holiday weekend celebration.
4. Lawn Games
Set up lawn games for a fun cocktail hour. Croquet, corn hole, life-sized jenga or tic-tac-toe are bound to all be crowd pleasers. (And icebreakers!)
From: An At-Home, Rustic, DIY Wedding in Woodville, Alabama
5. Colorful Cocktails
Mix up bright colored cocktails to really get those summer vibes going.
From: A Woodland Fairy-Tale Wedding in Hopland, CA
6. Picnic Plaid
Incorporate red gingham table linens for an authentic picnic experience.
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From: A Colorful Backyard Barbecue Wedding in Rutland, Vermont
7. Refreshing Apps
Keep guests refreshed with small bites of seasonal fruits like watermelon.
8. Veggies
Balance heavy barbeque foods with light farm to table snacks for grazing guests.
9. Party Favorites
Fry up backyard party favorites (like bacon baskets and fried chicken!).
From: A Green Building Wedding in Brooklyn, New York
10. Koozies
For an outdoor celebration it's important to keep cold drinks cool.
From: A Modern Nautical Wedding at Newport Beach House in Middletown, Rhode Island
11. Beer on Tap
Local brews on tap? Does it get any more awesome than that?
From: A Pretty DIY Wedding at Robin Hill Farm in Brandywine, Maryland
12. Sauce Station
A DIY sauce and topping station means everyone can fix their plates exactly how they like them.
From: A Nautical Vintage Wedding in Edgewater, MD
13. Unexpected Eats
Delight your guests with a snack or dessert that's widely adored, but rarely seen at weddings.
From: A Garden-Inspired Jewish Wedding at the Ritz-Carlton in Dallas, Texas
14. Pie
Supplement the dessert table with classic pie favorites.
From: A Relaxing, Outdoor Wedding in Boyne City, MI
15. Saucy Favors
Thank guests with custom condiment favors (like BBQ sauce!).
From: A Vintage, Garden-Inspired Wedding at Bissell House in South Pasadena, California
