Add to Cart: Backyard BBQ Essentials

When summer rolls around, there’s nothing better than spending time outside, and one of our favorite ways to entertain is with a backyard barbecue. Below, we’ve included tips from the IDG team on how to host an unforgettable summer gathering, from recipes to try to the ultimate outdoor accessories for your setting.

Cara’s “House Rocks” Marg

What says summer more than a freshly shaken margarita? For IDG Founder Cara Saladino, her signature recipe is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

2 lime wedges
Coarse sea salt
Ice cubes
2 oz pure agave reposado tequila
1.5 oz triple sec
1 oz fresh lime juice

Step 1:

Prepare your glass! Take a lime wedge and run it around the glass rim. Sprinkle coarse sea salt on a plate and gently dip the rim in. Pour some fresh ice into the glass, and then place it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve.

Step 2:

Choose your bar set! A good bar set is essential, especially when entertaining. Whether you prefer metallic and classy or neutral and relaxed, we have a range of attractive options in stock at IDG’s Shoppe.

Step 3:

Make your marg! Take your cocktail shaker and fill it with ice before adding tequila, triple sec and freshly squeezed lime juice. Cover and shake like your life (of the party) depends on it.

Step 4:

Serve! Pour into your prepared glass and top with a fresh lime wedge.

Andrea’s Steak Marinade

Salt and pepper are fine, but when you want to impress, try this marinade by IDG Interior Designer Andrea Keuler.

Ingredients:

250ml red wine vinegar
50ml Worcestershire sauce
25ml olive oil
50ml chutney (blatjang) sauce
50ml tomato or barbecue sauce
2 tsp minced garlic

In a casserole dish, combine the ingredients, add your meat and let it marinate for 3–6 hours. Simple and delicious!

Got a summer barbecue on the calendar? Head into IDG for a selection of beautiful outdoor furniture and accessories, or browse online.

Paula’s Ultimate Hosting Guide

We love barbecues because they’re relaxed and carefree, but there are a few things you can do to make your event more memorable. IDG Personal Shopper Paula Duffy takes us through some of her top tips below.

Tip 1:

Summertime barbecues can get hot! I always have extra hats, sunscreen and mosquito repellent close at hand. When your guests are comfortable, everyone will have a good time.

Tip 2:

I like to give my guests the option to bring their fur babies along. I’ve had every dog under the sun at my house, from Bobby McGee the Doberman to Damian the Great Dane.

Tip 3:

Barbecues are great because they make it easy to delegate. After all, being the hostess doesn’t mean you have to do everything! Ask attendees to bring different dishes and show off your hosting skills with your tablescape. Dinnerware and home accessories can completely transform a dining area.