Crédit : ® Photographie : Tanguy de Montesson / Agence Oblique
Whether you're planning an intimate garden party or a large-scale summer celebration, organising a BBQ for a big group can feel daunting. Between estimating quantities, hiring the right equipment and creating a welcoming atmosphere, there are many elements to consider. But with careful planning and the right partners, like Options Greathire, your barbecue can become a stylish, seamless event. Here’s how to plan a successful BBQ for 30, 50 or even 100 guests, with expert tips on tableware hire, furniture, and catering essentials.
1. Estimating Quantities: Food, Drinks and Tableware
When you organise a party BBQ, getting the quantities right is crucial to avoid both waste and shortages. Estimating for 30, 50, or 100 people may sound intimidating, but by using some reliable ratios, it becomes manageable.
OUR SELECTION OF EQUIPMENT AND DISHES :
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Planning Your Barbecue Food List Per Person
Use the following rule of thumb:
- Meat and protein: Around 300–400g per adult (e.g. 2 sausages, 1 burger, 1 skewer)
- Sides: Offer at least 3 varieties; 150–200g per side per person
- Bread rolls: 1.5 per guest
- Vegetarian/vegan alternatives: Account for at least 15–20% of guests
Your BBQ food options can include classics such as burgers, sausages, skewers, marinated chicken, grilled vegetables, halloumi, and seafood.
Drinks and Hydration Strategy
For warm-weather BBQs, drinks are just as important as food. You should plan:
- Two drinks per person for the first hour, and one every hour after
- Offer variety: soft drinks, wine, beer, mocktails, sparkling water
- Set up self-serve drink stations or bar hire for large BBQs
Chilled storage is a must. Hiring refrigerated coolers or mobile bars can be a game-changer for outdoor party planning.
Tableware and Serving Essentials
Hiring professional event crockery rental UK services ensures your barbecue looks polished and avoids waste. Key hire items include:
- Durable plates and cutlery for main meals and desserts
- Serving trays, bowls, and tongs
- Glassware for wine, cocktails, and soft drinks
Opting for tableware hire for events saves you from the hassle of cleaning and storing large quantities. Options Greathire can deliver, collect, and professionally clean everything, so you can focus on hosting.
OUR SELECTION OF BBQ'S EQUIPMENT :
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2. Renting the Right Equipment for a Successful BBQ
When catering for a large group, having the right infrastructure matters just as much as the menu. Here's how to create a well-equipped environment with BBQ party hire services.
BBQ Equipment and Grill Options
Depending on your venue and guest list, choose one or more:
- Charcoal grills for classic smoky flavour
- Gas barbecues for speed and temperature control
- Flat-top grills for volume and versatility
Ensure you have catering equipment hire that includes:
- Warming trays
- Thermometers
- Gas canisters and safety gear
A professional setup will elevate your barbecue experience and simplify cooking for larger groups.
Buffet Setup Ideas and Display Tables
Buffet-style service is ideal for 50 to 100 guests. It keeps the flow moving and encourages mingling. For this, you'll need:
- Buffet risers and counters for a dynamic layout
- Chafing dishes to keep food hot
- Clear signage for dietary preferences
Professionally arranged buffets with barbecue food list signage can elevate even a casual garden party.
Garden Party Essentials to Consider
Outdoor events demand a bit more forethought. Ensure you have:
- Weatherproof furniture (tables, chairs, lounge sets)
- Shade options (parasols, stretch tents)
- Outdoor lighting for evening ambiance
Add planters or greenery to make the space feel complete. Coordinating your layout with your BBQ food service areas avoids congestion and creates harmony.
Waste Management and Sustainability
Don't overlook bins, recycling, and cleanup:
- Provide separate waste and recycling stations
- Consider compostable napkins and eco cups
- Hire post-event cleaning services if needed
Rental solutions are inherently more sustainable than disposable ones. With disposable vs rental plates, the latter not only look better but reduce your environmental footprint.
3. Tips for Managing Guests and Creating a Great Atmosphere
Once the logistics are handled, it’s time to think about your guests’ experience—from flow and comfort to vibe and weather resilience. Here are practical tips to elevate your barbecue.
Creating Flow and Circulation at Your Party BBQ
Divide your space into clear zones:
- Grill station
- Buffet and drinks station
- Dining and seating areas
- Relaxation/lounge area
Use furniture placement to direct flow and avoid crowding. Keep paths open for easy movement, especially for larger events.
Music and Entertainment
Music helps set the mood. Choose:
- A live acoustic set for a stylish touch
- A playlist with summer classics
- Lawn games like boules, giant Jenga or croquet
For a garden party BBQ, interactive entertainment keeps the vibe relaxed and friendly.
Weather-Proofing Your BBQ Party
UK weather is famously unpredictable, so be ready:
- Have gazebos or stretch tents on standby
- Provide blankets and patio heaters for evenings
- Secure a plan B for heavy rain
Communicate the dress code based on your venue—formal garden or barefoot and relaxed?
Comfort for All Ages
Ensure your space suits everyone:
- Benches and high chairs for kids
- Cushioned seating for elderly guests
- High tables and stools for cocktail-style mingling
If the event goes into the evening, use LED lights and candles to transition seamlessly into night.
4. Essentials for a BBQ That Guests Will Remember
Your checklist of essentials for a BBQ should go beyond just food and drinks. These are the touches that make all the difference.
BBQ Food Must-Haves
To impress 50+ guests, make sure to include:
- A signature grilled dish (e.g. spiced lamb skewers, jerk chicken)
- One showstopper vegetarian option
- Freshly made salads (not store-bought)
- Homemade sauces and dips
Set up a "build-your-own" burger or taco station for interaction and fun.
Tableware and Decor
Bringing visual harmony to your table settings elevates the occasion. Choose:
- Matching tablecloths and runners
- Stylish napkin folds or napkin rings
- Coordinated glassware
With Options Greathire’s tableware hire, everything arrives ready to use - saving time and adding class.
Lighting and Atmosphere
Ensure your space suits everyone:
- Benches and high chairs for kids
- Cushioned seating for elderly guests
- High tables and stools for cocktail-style mingling
If the event goes into the evening, use LED lights and candles to transition seamlessly into night.
BBQ food ideas for a party
Ensure your space suits everyone:
- Benches and high chairs for kids
- Cushioned seating for elderly guests
- High tables and stools for cocktail-style mingling
If the event goes into the evening, use LED lights and candles to transition seamlessly into night.
FAQ
What should I include on a barbecue food list?
Your barbecue food list should cover proteins (burgers, sausages, skewers), vegetarian/vegan options (grilled veg, halloumi), sides (salads, bread), and desserts (fruit platters, brownies). Don’t forget condiments and sauces.
Should I use disposable or rental plates for a BBQ?
While disposable plates are convenient, rental plates elevate your event's look, reduce waste, and are more sustainable. Options Greathire provides full-service tableware hire for events with delivery and cleaning included.
How many grills do I need for 100 guests?
You should plan for at least two large grills or one professional-grade catering BBQ. Factor in cooking time and volume. Hiring from a BBQ party hire provider ensures you're fully equipped.
What are some top tips for a successful barbecue?
Top tips include planning your layout in advance, hiring professional tableware, keeping food warm with chafing dishes, and having a weather contingency plan.
How do I create a great atmosphere at a large BBQ?
Use music, lighting, comfortable seating, and themed decor. Incorporate lounge zones and interactive buffet setups. The right barbecue setup can feel both festive and intimate.
Can I hire everything I need for a BBQ?
Yes, with Options Greathire, you can hire everything from grills, plates, cutlery, tables, seating, and buffet stations to lighting and decor. It’s a full-service solution for hosting any scale of barbecue.
What if the weather changes on the day?
Be prepared with tents, covered grilling stations, and indoor alternatives if needed. Many BBQ party hire services offer last-minute solutions to save your event from bad weather.
What should you bring to a barbecue?
Bring your appetite, a light jacket for cooler evenings, and perhaps your favourite drink or side dish if it's a potluck-style event. If you're a guest, ask the host if anything specific is needed. For hosts, having a checklist ensures you don’t forget key barbecue items.
How do you host a barbecue for a large group?
Begin by confirming guest numbers and dietary preferences. Plan your barbecue food list, create distinct zones for cooking, dining and relaxing, and hire professional grill and tableware equipment. Focus on comfort, flow, and ambience—and always have a plan for the weather.
Ready to plan your barbecue? Contact Options Greathire for bespoke quotes and elegant solutions tailored to your event’s size, theme, and style. Make your barbecue unforgettable with professional service, premium hire items, and peace of mind from start to finish.
