There are three components to every great party. Three things that make or break your guests' experience. Master them all and you will definitely be deemed the hostess with the mostest. 

Find out what they are below so that you can throw a smokin’ good BBQ this summer at your Chico apartment.

All you need to do is read this blog, choose a date and time, call up your friends, and get ready to wow with these go-to hosting tips.

1. Environment

Apartments at Hignell Rentals generally has its restraints as far as hosting space, especially for outdoor gatherings. But have no fear, many of the Hignell Rentals properties have spacious outdoor amenities that you can take advantage of. 

Providing a fun, relaxed environment is key, no matter how much space you have. The more laid back the better! Hosting a great BBQ is about gathering together to enjoy comfort food and conversation.

First, choose the space that works best for you and your guest list, whether that’s your personal patio or apartment amenity. This might be an easy choice if you don’t have a BBQ and need to access the one provided by your complex.

You will want to avoid overcrowding your apartment, so choose what feels most comfortable.

Next, you will want to make sure you have all the supplies your guests will need. Being unprepared is the easiest way to steamroll a good time. Environment includes atmosphere and convenience. You don’t want to be the host who provides a delicious plate of BBQ wings and also forgets the napkins!

Supplies Checklist:

• Napkins
• Plates
• Silverware
• Cups
• Water (Don’t forget this especially if you plan to use an amenity instead of your apartment)

2. Food

There is something special about a perfectly seasoned tri-tip or veggie kabob on a warm summer afternoon. Pair it with fresh crisp seasonal fruits and an ice-cold beverage and BAM! The recipe for epic BBQ success! 

So, to make this perfectly clear, if every other aspect of your BBQ falls short, you absolutely must knock it out of the park with food taste and texture. Be smart about which foods you pair, for example, corn on the cob is great with tri-tip! For a fun twist of flavor, add a light sprinkling of cayenne pepper and a squeeze of lime juice to your corn, wrap it up in tinfoil and throw it on the BBQ. Your guests will thank you.

If you are considering appetizers, a great hint for bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers is to sprinkle a bit of brown sugar on top to enrich the flavor and provide sweet and spicy contrast. 

Most importantly, focus on your entrée. Pick high quality cuts of meat! Lather your ribs in tangy smoky sauce, season tri-tip and chicken to perfection, and you’ll have happy guests in no time. Just be sure to not pick something too lean or too fatty.

Be sure to include a vegetarian option for guests with that preference -- grilled veggies ought to do the trick! Also consider a watermelon salad with feta and mint!

Here is a list of fantastic Summer BBQ recipes:

• Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili-Lime Butter and Cotija Cheese
• Watermelon Salad with Feta and Mint
• Veggie Kabobs
• Homemade BBQ Sauce
• Santa Maria-Style BBQ Tri-Tip (Courtesy of Bobbly Flay)
• BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs

3. Beverages

Ice Ice Baby! Whatever you choose to serve to your guests for drinks, just make sure they are cold!

Make sure to respect the apartment complex’s alcohol policy if you are using an amenity to host your BBQ.

The best option is to use an ice chest. This will keep people from going in and out of your fridge, keep your drinks cold, and provide an easy self-serve option for guests. Often people will bring beverages to share as their contribution to your gathering, so having an ice chest is a good idea for extra space and convenience. A helpful hint is to remember that you can buy ice at Costco and most gas stations.

Consider crafting up summer inspired drinks, or offering your favorite blended margarita. Whether you are an Arnold Palmer or a John Daily kind of host, make sure you’ll have enough ice! 

Get Cookin’!

We hope these hosting tips will help you throw a great get together. Remember, the recipe for an epic BBQ is environment, food, and beverages! Rock all three elements and you’ll be sure to impress your guests.

For more awesome tips on rental living, check out our free resources below!