Food, games and good company — there’s no better way to welcome in the warm weather than with an outdoor BBQ party.

Hosting an unforgettable outdoor gathering doesn’t need to be a stressful affair. Just get your deck ready, fire up the BBQ and turn on the music. We’ve put our party hats on and compiled 6 tips to help you throw a BBQ party your friends and family will love:

1. Bring your deck back to life

Your deck is at the heart of any outdoor space, and no party is complete without a freshly coated deck. If your deck is looking a little lacklustre, bring it back to life with Cabot's Aquadeck.

Cabot’s Aquadeck’s new claim makes coating your deck simple. The water-based decking oil that lasts 2x longer than traditional oil-based decking oils can now be used over any existing oil or water-based coating*. Plus, if your deck’s existing coating is still in good condition, Aquadeck can be applied without sanding or undertaking a water bead test#.

It’ll protect your timber while its semi-transparent finish shows off the timber’s natural grain, which is sure to impress your BBQ guests. Head over to Cabot's Aquadeck to learn more and find out how to coat your deck depending on the timber’s condition.

*Provided the existing coating is at least 30 days old and in good condition. #Provided the existing coating is in good condition and not darker than your chosen Aquadeck colour.

For further information, visit www.cabots.com.au/aquadeck

2. Sun’s out, buns out

Your deck is ready to go, but it’s not a BBQ party without food! Slaving over the BBQ for hours is no fun, so do your prep ahead of time and enjoy the party. Prepare these hamburger patties early, or have steaks marinating the day before. You can’t go wrong with sausages and salads, or try grilled seafood for a tropical twist. For veggie-lovers, charred corn on the cob, mushroom shawarma or grilled veggie skewers are all safe bets.

3. The art of table setting

We often go all-out when hosting indoor dinner parties, so why not give our outdoor table the same love? Table settings help set the vibe of your BBQ party. Create a classic, elegant feel with glass tealight holders, or opt for simple styling with a linen tablecloth and foraged greenery. Theming your table setting, like going for a coastal look or rustic theme, is always fun.

If you’re looking to show off your DIY skills, create a show-stopping centrepiece. This timber table feature is perfect for any outdoor party.

4. Perfect your party games

What’s a backyard party without games? They’re fun, interactive and get guests on their feet. For entertainment that both kids and adults love, you can’t go past a classic game of backyard cricket. Planet Finska has a great selection of wooden outdoor games — from the ever-popular Finska to classics like Quoits and Bocce. For something a little different, a giant DIY Jenga set is an easy project that guests are sure to enjoy.

5. Only good vibes

Set the vibe by building an upbeat party playlist. The ultimate playlist will have variety, and mixing classic oldies with more modern hits means there’s something for everyone.

If you don’t have time to curate the perfect party playlist, Spotify has some epic playlists for any occasion. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the aptly named ‘Soulful Dinner’ playlist or ‘License To Chill’ feature plenty of feel-good tunes. For something a little more disco, try ‘Bottomless Brunch’ or ‘Rock Party’ and get the heads bobbing.

6. After party

After the party, it’s… the clean-up.

Post-party cleaning is certainly not glamorous, but it is necessary. Once the plates have been cleared, the table linen washed and leftovers packed away, it’s time to tend to your outdoor space. Our Everyday Deck Wash helps remove dirt and dust from your deck, making it the perfect timber cleaner following your BBQ party.

There’s not much we wouldn’t do on a freshly polished deck. Grab your Cabot’s Aquadeck and follow these steps to host the ultimate BBQ party that’ll have friends and family back on your deck in no time.