With the summer solstice behind us and July 4th right around the corner, cookout season is in full swing. From temperature-controlled serveware and bug-repelling gadgets to stylish decor, we’ve gathered a list of 15 smart additions to your backyard BBQ lineup. (And if you’re not hosting this year, some of these items make great hostess gifts, too!)
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Serveware
Chilled serving tray
Keep fruit, vegetables, seafood, and condiments chilled with this serving tray ($33.99), which comes with a handled lid and a set of small serving tongs. Not only does it keep the cold stuff cold, but this setup also protects your spread from bugs and debris! If you’re looking for something smaller that’s intended for condiments and garnishes only, check out this option.
Salad bowl
Similarly, you can find a variety of serving bowls with a built-in chilling function. (What a time to be alive, right?) This one, available on Amazon for $54.99, comes with an acrylic bowl and dome, a stainless steel bowl, serving spoons, and durable ice bags to help transport and store your ice.
Warming pad
Don’t neglect the warmer menu items! You can invest in professional chaffing dishes for serving hot food or consider a silicone warming pad. This warming pad ($69.99) has three temperature settings and rolls when not in use for convenient storage. (Some user reviews share other fun uses, like keeping melted chocolate or other ingredients at the correct temperature as you bake.)
Linen-look disposable napkins
Get the look and durability of cloth napkins without the ironing, laundering, or expense involved in preparing for large parties. We love this classic red and white bistro motif, but several other options are available, including classic white and a lovely blue floral pattern! Order a pack of 60 for $25.99 here.
Patterned plates
If you’re looking to branch out from the usual stars-and-stripes motif this July, consider leaning into classic tableware patterns instead. Coterie offers a full line of patterned paper plates, napkins, cups, cutlery, and more, available for quick shipping from Amazon. These charming blue patterned plates start at $9.25.
Checkered hot dog trays
Or, if July 4th is all about nostalgia for you, consider stocking up on red and white checkered options, like these classic hot dog trays! You can snag a pack of 250 for $19.99 — enough to see you through summer and well into tailgating season.
Food covers
Mesh food covers are old school but immensely useful, and they’ve come a long way since your grandmother’s garden parties. You can now find a variety of shapes, colors, and materials beyond traditional white mesh. We love the sleeker look of this black mesh set, available on Amazon for $53.99. (If you prefer to make more of a statement, this colorful rattan pick from Anthropologie is great for a pop of color.)
Takeaway containers
If you’re looking to avoid leftovers, order a stack of disposable takeaway containers for guests to fill on their way out. There are a wide variety of sizes and shapes available on Amazon — this particular compostable option comes in a pack of 50 for $20.99. (Be sure to leave out a handful of Sharpies for labeling!)
Ambiance
Fly-repelling fans
With the recent popularity of charcuterie boards, fly fans have become more common, which means we’re seeing a wider variety of designs. This style has a sleek base — available in black and gold or white and silver — and features reflective strips, which help to further deter pests. These are available in sets of two, three, or four on Amazon ($49.99 – $89.99).
Bottle topper lamp
For any event, lighting is key. Once the sun sets, you’ll want to ensure your outdoor spaces stay adequately lit. One fun option we’ve seen lately is bottle stopper — or, in this case, bottle topper — lamps. They turn any bottle into a miniature lamp, so you can make use of old bottles that are too pretty (or too sentimental) to throw out. They’re also great if you’re already planning to have self-serve bottles scattered around your event! This set of two is available for $64.99.
Dimmable LED lights
Another fabulous cordless lighting option is this portable LED lamp, available in five finishes ($43.99 – $59.99). Choose from black (pictured here), white, waterproof nickel, brass and white, or solid brass. The lamp is dimmable to your preferred brightness, and its rechargeable battery promises to last up to seven hours.
Lawn games
Contribute to the fun summer vibe by offering up games for your guests — whether that be waterproof playing cards for the pool or classic lawn games like croquet, cornhole, or ladder toss (pictured here, available for $64.99). If you haven’t tried your hand at ladder toss (also known as ladder golf or ladder ball), you’re either in for a treat or the most frustrating afternoon of your life. Great for a competitive crowd!
Decor
Wreath
Welcome guests right away with a festive wreath at your entryway! This artificial forsythia wreath (available in both red and blue) makes an understated nod to July 4th but can easily be reused throughout the year for a variety of other occasions. Snag it on Amazon for $25.99.
Patterned vases
Another July 4th-appropriate addition that could easily live in your home year-round is these adorable miniature vases! Add them to your dining tables, bar, or buffet setup. Choose from two patterns here — each set is currently $19.98.
Dried flowers
And finally, a nod to dried florals! Not only are they long-lasting and versatile, but they add a hint of rustic charm to any event. Right now, it’s easy to find baby’s breath in classic ivory or dyed with just about any hue you can dream up. We especially love this statement-making red, available for $12.99 a bundle.
Happy planning!
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