Hosting a BBQ is a major highlight of the British summer.
The sizzling of the grill. The ‘ahhh’ of an ice-cold beverage. The satisfying smell of smoke, sauce, and the outside world mingling together.
That right there, that’s summer.
Oh, and the angry shout of the chef, realising the dog has stolen yet another burger.
There we go: 10/10 summer vibes, as our Gen Z colleagues would say.
BBQs are great, but they can sometimes make you feel like you’re the one being grilled to perfection with everything that needs to be done. And organised. And bought.
Plus, with your guests most likely being self-proclaimed BBQ experts, it can be hard to impress everyone, making you hotter than a spicy chicken wing under the collar.
That’s why we’ve consulted our very own grilling gurus (some even hail from the land of BBQ - Texas) to compile this handy list of how to host the very best BBQ on a budget, that’ll hopefully have every one of your guests singing your culinary praises.
And, if you’re looking to host a corporate BBQ, outdoor event, or a brand summer gathering, we’ve got all the promo merch you’ll need to have a great time. From branded aprons, sun hats, games and more - make your summer outdoor event one of this year’s greatest hits with outstanding merch.
“Wear an apron, invite all other males up to the BBQ area to inspect and appreciate, ensure you have a beer in hand.”
Callum Kent, Senior Merchandise Consultant (EMEA)
First up, it’s probably best to clarify the difference between ‘barbequing’ and ‘grilling’ (thanks, Meghan Purkiss, for pointing out there’s a difference!).
The main difference is that grilling is hot and quick, whereas BBQ is low-and-slow.
Plus, ‘grilling’ usually just refers to a method of cooking, such as a ‘grilled’ chicken thigh, or a ‘grilled’ mushroom.
BBQ-ing, on the other hand, is a whole affair. It’s the slow-cooking of the food, the sweet and sticky marinades, the corn, coleslaw and potato sides.
A good way to remember the difference:
“Grilling is great, but BBQ is better.”
Natasha Ithildin, Content Writer (EMEA)
You always wish you’d done more the night before, so this is your reminder:
DO. IT. THE. NIGHT. BEFORE.
Seriously, your future self will thank you.
This is, without a doubt, the biggest tip for keeping costs down and your sanity in check when hosting a BBQ.
Decide on a budget, and stick to it. Decide on who you’re inviting, no exceptions. List everything you need, and don’t get anything else from the store.
Yes, ad hoc BBQs are a lot of fun, but mostly when you’re attending them, not hosting.
Meat, veggies, sides, if you can name it, marinade it (but please, not the cat).
Marinading works so much better when done the night before, as it allows the marinad-ee to take on all those delicious flavours.
Plus, a homemade BBQ marinade doesn’t need to be expensive, and I bet you’ve already got most of the ingredients in your cupboards.
Seasoning is a non-negotiable, especially when it comes to your meat of choice. And a tasty dry rub is a super-easy and cost-effective way to add some mouth-watering flavour to your meal.
“The dry rub is really simple... equal parts salt and coarse black pepper.”
Khoa Le, Creative Director (US)
I know, I know, this is often frowned upon in BBQ circles. However, if you’re hosting as well as having to keep up with regular life, pre-cooking things that can be cooked before in an oven (such as your meat, potatoes and some sides), then this is the way to go to ease the pressure on the actual day.
Cook them in the oven, then reheat on the BBQ later to add some crispy char.
Breaking news: the difference between a good BBQ and a great one? The focus wasn’t just on the meat.
When trying to keep costs to a minimum, taking the pressure off the central focus of the BBQ (be it a tender piece of meat or a wonderful veggie assortment), can be a lifesaver at stretching that star of the show to all your guests.
If you’re trying to keep the costs as low as possible, don’t feel like you can’t ask your guests to bring along things. From sides, extras, drinks and dessert, you can make a game of it with different themes, plus, it keeps things exciting for you, too!
Everyone always puts their meat at a BBQ on a pedestal, which fair enough, meat is usually the focal point of any BBQ; HOWEVER, this doesn’t mean you should shun your humble vegetable.
They’re usually cheaper than meat (helping to keep your BBQ budget intact), and they are delicious in their own right. Barbequed corn on the cob is next-level level top-tier. And don’t get me started on the potatoes.
Getting the best cuts of meat for your budget is always easiest when you get them from your butcher.
Chat to them about how you intend to cook the meat, how many people you’ll need to feed, what your favourite cuts are, etc, and they’ll give you their expert advice on what would work best.
We always recommend reaching out to the experts first - like us! If you’re looking for some creative and fun ways to up your merch game this summer, chat with one of our expert Merchandise Consultants today.
Oh, and top tip from our US friends:
“Not sure how readily available untrimmed brisket cuts of meat are in the UK, but Tri-Tip cuts will work as well.”
Khoa Le, Creative Director (US)
Don’t forget the finale of the night! Desserts can be an amazing and cheap way to make a night unforgettable.
Go for an Eton mess for a fresh finish, or indulge in some decadent chocolate truffles to really end with a bang.
Whether you opt for alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages, don’t forget that a cool, crisp glass of something refreshing can add that extra wonderful (but inexpensive) dynamic to your meal.
Fish often gets overlooked as an option when it comes to barbequing. But nothing beats a bit of char-grilled cod, or some chilli-infused prawn skewers.
Often a bit friendlier on the ol’ wallet, don’t strike fish off your BBQ menu too quickly, as it can add an ocean-depth of flavour that’ll make you a big fish in the BBQ pond.
Now, for the main event. Pull up a chair, grab a *branded* notebook, and let’s make some good BBQ grub.
Our American team all agreed on one thing: it matters what your heat source is. That’s what’s going to impart that rich smoky flavour to your feast (or, not).
“Not sure how readily available oak wood is, but that's a great wood to use to smoke Texas BBQ.”
Khoa Le, Creative Director (US)
It’s not just a light-it-up and hope it gets hot moment; it’s one of the biggest puzzle pieces for making your BBQ unforgettable.
“Charcoal grills give more flavor than a gas grill. You can add mesquite wood chips (soaked in water) to the charcoal before cooking for added flavor.”
Melissa Callaway, EVP of Corp Development + Implementation (US)
Contrary to what old cowboy films and childhood camping trips may have led you to believe, you don’t want to cook on a BBQ that has big, roaring flames. This will burn your food (and not in a good way) before it’s even had a chance to properly cook. Seriously, it’ll be worth the wait.
“Don't burn the food. Wait until the heat has died down a little before cooking, rather than chucking on the food the moment you've got a flame going, and you'll avoid sausages that look like Anakin Skywalker at the end of Revenge of the Sith.”
Jamie Mackenzie, Digital Marketing Manager (EMEA)
With this in mind, a charcoal starter is the way to go for getting your coals at just the right temperature for the tastiest grill.
“I always recommend using a charcoal starter for smaller charcoal BBQs. As the charcoal is piled up, it is a lot easier to get started, being the fire works upwards, rather than spread out. Often, BBQs will get hotter in the centre and not in the corners, so this allows the heat to cook a bit more evenly. You can normally pick them up for less than a tenner.”
Adam Hicks, Senior Designer (EMEA)
This may be down to personal preference, but depending on how you position your meat on the BBQ can determine its flavour afterwards. Who knew?!
“Pay attention to what side you put the meat on- it's split 50-50 whether you go fat side down or fat side up, but I like to shield the meat from the heat with the fat.”
Khoa Le, Creative Director (US)
Remember what we said the difference between a BBQ and a grill was? How BBQs are a low and slow cooking method? Well, we meant it.
“The key is low and slow. 1.5 hours in the smoker at 225 degrees for each pound of meat.”
Khoa Le, Creative Director (US)
Take your time. Let it rest and enjoy every sweet, sweltering minute of a beautiful British summertime.
“Let it sit for 10 min. after you take it off the grill before cutting, to keep the juices in.”
Melissa Callaway, EVP of Corp Development + Implementation (US)
Make a day of it if you can; no rush, no last-minute panics, just you, your BBQ, and a good cold drink.
“I'm not much of a cook in the household, but I do know one thing. Plan PLENTY of time, especially if you're smoking any meats. Start early in the morning so you can eat in a timely manner!”
Zairah Luke, Account Manager (US)
To be on the safe side, no expert barbeque-teer is without a BBQ meat thermometer - an excellent tool for making sure your food is not only as hot as it looks, but is safe to eat, too.
“Use a BBQ meat thermometer!”
Zoe Bailey, Sustainability Assistant (EMEA)
We’ve all been there: you’re dressed up in your fancy, clean, white shirt, you think to yourself, “I’ll be careful, it’s fine.” You just go to give a quick flip to a burger andddd NO, IT’S A TRAVESTY - you’ve got grease splatters all over you. Your shirt: ruined. Your friends: chuckling. Your washing machine: fed up.
Wear the apron, you won't regret it (especially if it’s a branded apron).
“Best tip is to wear an apron so you don't ruin your favourite top.”
Kevin Wickett, Senior Merchandise Consultant (EMEA)
For those once-in-a-lifetime BBQ experiences, the food is only a part of the equation. Having fun activities to keep your guests entertained whilst the BBQ does its thing is what will differentiate your BBQ from Uncle Bob’s less-than-memorable one last summer.
We know you love the sound of your taste sensations cooking away on the BBQ. Your guests might need something a little jazzier as background sound. Create a playlist full of all your favourite summer classics and get their feet tapping as the food sizzles.
Read more: From Elvis to Kanye: Here’s everything you need to know about band merch
A game of hot sauce roulette, anyone? Incorporate fun and easy party games into your BBQ itinerary to make it a night to remember.
We’ve got a whole range of classic games you could add to your menu - from childhood classics to new family favourites - getting your brand in on the game has never been easier.
Read more: Do you remember these games from your childhood?
All the best BBQs have a theme. Be it the 80s, Around the World or a classic Texan BBQ Showdown, having a theme will add that flair of individuality to your night. Plus, it’ll give your guests a chance to get creative!
Read more: The summer merchandise trend everyone loves: pastels
Okay, so you’re wrapping up your BBQ leftovers, and someone needs to wake granny in the sun lounger, your BBQ is officially over, and it’s time to relax.
Except for the mountain of dishes that now need to be done.
It may not be your favourite chore, but remember, it’s 100% the sign of a good night.
And as a parting gift, we have a little BBQ cleaning hack for you: use an onion!
“Cut an onion in half, pierce the cut side with a fork, and rub it on the hot grill grates. The onion's juices will help loosen and remove debris, creating steam to clean the grates. You can also do this with a raw potato to make the grill non-stick.”
Melissa Callaway, EVP of Corp Development + Implementation (US)
Science and good food - we know how to throw a good BBQ here at Fluid!
Read more: Get your merch summer picnic ready
We were suggested some super tasty recipes from our US team whilst researching this post. Enjoy! (A big thanks to Khoa Le!)
And if you’ve got a trip booked for Texas anytime soon, check out these best BBQ restaurants of the Lone Star State (thanks, Glenn Cameron Reimer!).
Just like the BBQ you’re about to host, promotional merchandise can help make unforgettable memories with your team and clients.
If you’re looking to host a corporate BBQ, outdoor event, or a brand summer gathering, we’ve got all the promo merch you’ll need to have a great time.
And our last tip for hosting the best BBQ ever? Don’t forget to enjoy yourself!
“I usually just open a beer and sit down.”
Roy Hooper, Junior IT Technician (EMEA)