Now is the perfect time to be planning the most fun summer BBQ with friends and family before everyone heads back to school! Here are a few tips and tricks to throw the best party, stay stress free, and make sure everyone (including you, the host!) has a great time! People will be asking about next year’s party before you know it.

-Send out your invites a few weeks in advance. This will give people enough time to respond, and give you a solid head count. This is an easy step to take all of the stress out of something that should be fun and exciting!

-Ask your guests to bring a side, appetizer or dessert. They will be more than willing to show off their talents in the kitchen, or swing by their local bakery and pick up a sweet treat to share.

-Keep it simple. A bright summer flower arrangement goes a long way in keeping things festive and keeping the budget low. You can also do a fun cocktail and add in some fresh or frozen fruit! Here is a great go-to recipe:

Summer Strawberry Lemonade

• 1 Lime
• 1 Mint, fresh
• 1/2 cup Strawberries
• 3 cups of lemonade
• 1 bag of ice
• 4 oz. of your choice of vodka

-Make a fun playlist and use a portable speaker for your backyard. This sets a fun mood for everyone, and music can be a conversation piece for people who may not know each other very well.

-Don’t forget to provide bug spray for your guests!! This one is super important. You want everyone to be comfortable and stay for the whole party. This ensures people will have a comfortable evening outside.

-Finally, take some time the week after to send a quick thank you note to your friends and family for their time. This goes a long way and will remind them of their fun night at your home! Don’t forget to take pictures and text them out to your friends later as well. Just another thoughtful gesture that will keep people asking when your next shindig will be!