Barbecue Wedding Reception Ideas
A barbecue for a wedding reception is an excellent alternative to a formal seated dinner. The atmosphere will be relaxed, casual and fun, where family and friends can gather with the newlyweds for laughter and best wishes. It can be held in someone's backyard, which cuts down on many costs, while still providing a memorable experience for the bride and groom. The food can be simple or gourmet, depending on the preferences of the couple.
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Food
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Food is one of the most important factors of a backyard wedding reception barbecue. It is imperative that the food is prepped ahead of time, including marinating meats and chopping fruits and vegetables. The menu should be set well in advance to ensure all ingredients are purchased and ready for grilling. There should be at least one dedicated grill master tending to the food all afternoon or evening. At least one other person should be assigned to help him to make the process smooth and more efficient. The food preparation will also be easier if there is a large grilling surface.
For the food, consider thinly sliced beef, chicken or pork to keep costs low and have shorter cooking times. Tiny beef burgers, also known as sliders, could be a gourmet alternative to regular ones. A range of toppings, such as brie, carmelized onion and pineapple, could be offered with the sliders. The food choices are endless but must include sides like fresh salads and fruit, and also desserts.
Decor
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Brightly colored paper lanterns and citronella candle stakes can be lit and placed around the periphery of the backyard to provide the party with effective lighting and insect protection. Linens of bright colors should be placed on all the tables, as well as floral blooms and candles, to create a casual but romantic atmosphere. The decor should be simple and inexpensive, as barbecues can get messy. Focus on lively colors, soft lighting and bright blooms. The garden should be planted in advance with lush greenery and flowers for a beautiful backdrop to the reception.
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Activities
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Wedding receptions often have games and activities, and a backyard barbecue reception should be no exception. Give the kids sparklers and let them run wild around the garden, providing a lively atmosphere and a touch of shimmer and excitement. The traditional events can still take place if desired, such as the bouquet toss. Dancing should definitely remain a part of the gathering, as coming together under the stars is romantic and unforgettable. Late-night activities should emphasize fun in the dark --- perhaps a bonfire with marshmallows or fireworks set off for a colorful show for the guests.
Favors
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Wedding receptions often end with the guests taking home a favor to remember the special day. A barbecue wedding reception should not be an exception to this tradition. Consider fun favors such as small bottles of homemade barbecue sauce with labels of the wedding date. Alternatively, barbecues usually have lots of leftovers and the guests can each be given premade containers with printed labels to take home their favorite foods from the night. The containers can be simple and reusable, so guests can use them long after their food from the event is gone.
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