We have some awesome lighting ideas for your next BBQ or party. Proper lighting is of the upmost importance when setting the right tone for your gathering.

You don’t need a “theme” to your party. You already have one: you’re cooking outside. But, our vote is more the “campfire in the woods” kind of outdoor cooking than the “Father’s Day card with checkered table cloth and yellow and red squeeze bottles” sort of thing.

To pull it off, you need but two things: something green and nature-y, and something on fire. If you have a grassy yard with trees, you’re all set on the green part. If your space is more of a deck or fire escape (or dirt lot), get some basic potted plants. Even placing some succulents in bowls on the table conveys the tone.

As far as fire, there are several options. A backyard fire pit is ideal, so if you have the space, go for it. Use an established pit or ring for safety, and I recommend some basic concrete pavers underneath the pit if you’re setting it on something flammable. If you don’t have one, you can use a kettle grill to build a small, safe wood fire, or you can always make one. Here’s the ManMade tutorial, and these are some other good DIY options. Just be sure to check your local city codes for open flame laws. 

If a fire pit doesn’t make sense, plenty of other options will work just fine. Tiki torches are a great solution, adding lots of vibe and helping to keep the bugs away. If you don’t have a spot to stake them in the ground, embrace the power of the citronella candle. Get lots, and use them on every flat surface you have.

From “How To Host An All-Out Barbecue Party” by our friends at ManMadeDIY.

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