Everything You Need To Plan the Ultimate Family Cookout

Published on:
Happy People Seated Around Table With Food and Drinks

Backyard family cookouts evoke some of our fondest childhood memories. Sounds of easy laughter in the air, mingled with the enticing aroma of delicious food and the joy of spending quality time with loved ones — these gatherings hold a special place in our hearts. 

Now, it's your turn to create those cherished memories for the young ones in your family. But you'll realize there is more to it than grilled burgers and paper plates as you dive into the planning. Organizing a memorable experience requires attention to detail and some essential elements. 

From choosing the perfect location and crafting a suitable menu to finding the best backyard party rentals, here’s a guide to walk you through everything you need to ensure a fun, smooth-sailing party. 

1. The Perfect Location 

Whose backyard is best? Or perhaps you're considering alternative rental backyard ideas like local parks or community centers? Whichever you choose, there are important factors to consider.

First, assess the available backyard space to determine if it can comfortably accommodate your guests and desired activities. If space is limited, explore indoor venues or local parks that offer picnic areas or pavilions. These designated spots usually come equipped with the necessary food preparation facilities and seating. Don't forget to consider amenities such as restrooms, parking availability, and access to electricity.

Additionally, be mindful of the weather and season when choosing your location and have a backup plan in case of unpleasant weather. Outdoor party event rentals like tents or canopies can provide shelter from rain or extreme temperatures, ensuring the party goes on regardless of the elements. 

2. A Great Menu 

What's a cookout without delicious food? It's the centerpiece that elevates the atmosphere and brings everyone together. Start by selecting a theme that sets the tone for your gathering, such as a backyard barbecue, a beach-inspired feast, or a picnic in the park. 

From there, plan a variety of main dishes that align with your chosen theme, including crowd-pleasers like grilled burgers, marinated chicken, or succulent steaks. Make sure to cater to dietary restrictions with vegetarian or vegan options. 

Complement your dishes with an array of sides, from fresh salads and grilled vegetables to flavorful dips and condiments. And of course, no cookout is complete without a sweet ending. Leave room on the table for desserts like fruit platters, homemade pies, and refreshing ice cream sundaes. 

To ensure you have everything you need, create a detailed shopping list that takes into account your existing supplies and what needs to be purchased or rented. Consider using backyard party rentals for items like server ware to supplement your own and make cleanup a breeze. 

3. Essential Equipment and Supplies

Man In Denim Apron Barbequeing on Portable Grill

Having the right supplies is essential to any event, and a family cookout is no exception. That's where outdoor party event rentals come in handy. To ensure you have everything you need, compare your existing supplies against this checklist of key elements: 

Reach out to family and friends to see if they can contribute or consider hiring from a backyard party rental provider if you find any gaps in your supplies. 

4. A Refreshing Beverage Selection  

No backyard party is complete without a cool drink in hand. When it comes to the little ones, keep it simple and sweet. Whip up a large batch of refreshing lemonade or fruit punch to keep the little ones happy and hydrated all day. 

For the adults, it's all about variety. Stock up on a range of beverages including beer, wine, and ingredients for crafting delicious cocktails, alongside non-alcoholic options like soda and water. 

Consider picking up some disposable cups if your pantry falls short on drinkware. Alternatively, turn to backyard party rentals for additional barware supplies to elevate your beverage service. 

5. A Festive Atmosphere 

Good vibes are the ultimate goal for a family cookout. You want your guests to feel a sense of warmth, joy, and relaxation the moment they arrive. 

Transform your backyard or rented space into a vibrant oasis with colorful banners, gingham tablecloths, or whimsical paper lanterns. If you prefer a more subtle ambiance, opt for soft string lights and enchanting lanterns that emit a warm glow as the evening sets in. Don't have these items on hand? No problem! Backyard party rentals offer a cost-effective solution, allowing you to effortlessly rent beautiful lighting decor for that and other rental backyard decor ideas at a fraction of the price. 

To further elevate the mood, curate a playlist filled with upbeat tunes that will keep everyone tapping their feet and embracing the lively atmosphere. 

6. Fun and Games 

Finally, no family cookout is complete without a lineup of exciting and engaging activities to keep everyone entertained — not just the children. Plan some age-appropriate activities that cater to different interests and abilities. 

Fortunately, the options are endless. From classics like three-legged and sack races to modern favorites such as cornhole and giant Jenga. These games can easily be hired from reputable backyard party rentals, saving you the hassle of purchasing and storing them. 

To add an extra level of excitement, why not organize a friendly tournament where families can compete? Family and sibling rivalry will naturally ignite the competitive spirit, but you can amp up the stakes by offering prizes to the winners. 

Invite Ultimate Party Rentals 

Ultimate Party Rentals is passionate about helping customers create unforgettable moments with loved ones. With a wide range of backyard party rentals and delivery services, we are the go-to events and rental partner for customers in Nashville, middle Tennessee, Clarksville, TN, and Bowling Green, KY. 

Why stress over the logistics when you can invite us to the cookout? Find everything you need from our extensive party rental catalog today and we’ll help you create an event your family and friends will cherish for years to come. 

Whether you’re selecting the venue or looking for tent rentals, here’s your guide to planning a fundraiser that’s both successful and memorable:

Define Fundraiser Purpose

Before diving into the details, establish clear goals for your fundraiser. What is your target amount? What specific cause or project will the funds support? Who are you targeting? These questions aren’t just for your personal understanding, but also to shape the event’s cause and guide all the decisions regarding planning.

Fundraisers can come in all shapes and sizes, and each one is suitable for different audiences and causes. But if you’re looking for popular options when planning a fundraiser, they can include:

If you’re looking to have the perfect event, you need to think about the audience you’re catering to first.  

Have A Budget

A detailed budget helps you allocate resources effectively and avoid overspending when planning a fundraiser. These costs can include:

If you have additional funding from other sources, it’s important to consider them when you’re planning your budget. You can also enlist the help of a professional if you’re planning a big fundraiser, as this can help things go more smoothly and be more cohesive.

Select the Right Location

Your venue sets the stage for the fundraiser’s atmosphere. When scouting locations, consider the capacity, accessibility, and amenities. You have to make sure that the venue can accommodate your expected number of guests. The location has to be easy to reach and accommodate all attendees, including those with special needs. Look for venues with essentials like parking and restrooms.

For outdoor events, parks or gardens can be charming, while banquet halls or community centers work well for formal gatherings. If you’re working on a tight budget, think about reaching out to schools, churches, or local businesses that may offer free or discounted spaces.

Plan Unique Fundraiser Activities

hand holding orange raffle tickets

Fundraising events rely on engagement, and you have to make sure that you’re planning activities that people can enjoy and connect with. Keep attendees entertained with a mix of fundraiser activities tailored to the event’s theme, with ideas including:

Interactive activities not only enhance the guest experience but also end up boosting contributions for your fundraiser.

Secure Your Rentals

Creating the right ambiance and ensuring smooth operations often requires additional equipment and rentals. There are many essentials that you will need to rent, as buying them can eat away from your budget, and it’s not necessary for a one-time event. Finding party rentals in Nashville is not difficult as long as you know what you need to rent.

You will need to look for tent rentals when planning a fundraiser that’s set to happen outdoors. Ensure ample seating for dining and registration with table and chair rentals. Rent concession stands so you can cater to your audience’s taste for food as well as include another fun activities for your fundraiser. Rent party games to enhance engagement, or rent dance floors to create focal points for performances.

Promote Your Fundraiser

In the midst of planning your fundraiser, you can’t forget about promoting it. Hosting a fundraiser goes beyond just planning it, there has to be a strategy for promoting it. You have to attract attendees and sponsors alike, and the best way to do this can be through social media. Create an event page and share updates regularly, but don’t forget to add hashtags!

Send personalized invites to your mailing list for a more personal touch. You can enlist the help of a designer or a design app to create your invite in minutes. Encourage supporters to share event details with their networks. All of this has to be done while you’re planning a fundraiser to generate hype about the event.

Organize Volunteers and Staff

a man holding volunteers needed sign

Planning a fundraiser, and executing it requires a dedicated team. You have to identify what roles you would require for fundraiser activities and who is capable of fulfilling them. You will need event coordinators who can oversee planning and execution. You will also need to have a registration team at the event responsible for managing guest check-ins and ticketing. Activity facilitators can run games, auctions, or workshops.

Host training sessions to familiarize volunteers with their tasks and ensure smooth coordination during the event. When planning a fundraiser, these are important components you can’t miss out on.

Maximize Fundraising Opportunities

Optimize your event’s fundraising potential with good strategies. Partner with local businesses to cover costs or donate prizes. Set up visible areas for attendees to contribute. When hosting a fundraiser, you can also encourage recurring donations for long-term support.

Express gratitude to everyone who’s contributed to the event’s success by sending thank-you notes. This can also increase fundraising opportunities for the future, if you plan to host other events.

Make Your Fundraiser A Success with Ultimate Party Rentals

Planning a fundraiser can seem daunting, but Ultimate Party Rentals in Nashville is here to help you simplify the process. Find all your event rentals, from tents to china at one destination. You can schedule a pick-up or get your rentals delivered, with pick-up allotted for when you want it. Ensure that your fundraiser is a resounding success when you choose a partner like Ultimate Party Rentals to help you through the process.

Previous Post
No Previous Post
Go Back To Blog Page
Next Post
No Next Post
Go Back To Blog Page

Backyard family cookouts evoke some of our fondest childhood memories. Sounds of easy laughter in the air, mingled with the enticing aroma of delicious food and the joy of spending quality time with loved ones — these gatherings hold a special place in our hearts. 

Now, it's your turn to create those cherished memories for the young ones in your family. But you'll realize there is more to it than grilled burgers and paper plates as you dive into the planning. Organizing a memorable experience requires attention to detail and some essential elements. 

From choosing the perfect location and crafting a suitable menu to finding the best backyard party rentals, here’s a guide to walk you through everything you need to ensure a fun, smooth-sailing party. 

1. The Perfect Location 

Whose backyard is best? Or perhaps you're considering alternative rental backyard ideas like local parks or community centers? Whichever you choose, there are important factors to consider.

First, assess the available backyard space to determine if it can comfortably accommodate your guests and desired activities. If space is limited, explore indoor venues or local parks that offer picnic areas or pavilions. These designated spots usually come equipped with the necessary food preparation facilities and seating. Don't forget to consider amenities such as restrooms, parking availability, and access to electricity.

Additionally, be mindful of the weather and season when choosing your location and have a backup plan in case of unpleasant weather. Outdoor party event rentals like tents or canopies can provide shelter from rain or extreme temperatures, ensuring the party goes on regardless of the elements. 

2. A Great Menu 

What's a cookout without delicious food? It's the centerpiece that elevates the atmosphere and brings everyone together. Start by selecting a theme that sets the tone for your gathering, such as a backyard barbecue, a beach-inspired feast, or a picnic in the park. 

From there, plan a variety of main dishes that align with your chosen theme, including crowd-pleasers like grilled burgers, marinated chicken, or succulent steaks. Make sure to cater to dietary restrictions with vegetarian or vegan options. 

Complement your dishes with an array of sides, from fresh salads and grilled vegetables to flavorful dips and condiments. And of course, no cookout is complete without a sweet ending. Leave room on the table for desserts like fruit platters, homemade pies, and refreshing ice cream sundaes. 

To ensure you have everything you need, create a detailed shopping list that takes into account your existing supplies and what needs to be purchased or rented. Consider using backyard party rentals for items like server ware to supplement your own and make cleanup a breeze. 

3. Essential Equipment and Supplies

Man In Denim Apron Barbequeing on Portable Grill

Having the right supplies is essential to any event, and a family cookout is no exception. That's where outdoor party event rentals come in handy. To ensure you have everything you need, compare your existing supplies against this checklist of key elements: 

Reach out to family and friends to see if they can contribute or consider hiring from a backyard party rental provider if you find any gaps in your supplies. 

4. A Refreshing Beverage Selection  

No backyard party is complete without a cool drink in hand. When it comes to the little ones, keep it simple and sweet. Whip up a large batch of refreshing lemonade or fruit punch to keep the little ones happy and hydrated all day. 

For the adults, it's all about variety. Stock up on a range of beverages including beer, wine, and ingredients for crafting delicious cocktails, alongside non-alcoholic options like soda and water. 

Consider picking up some disposable cups if your pantry falls short on drinkware. Alternatively, turn to backyard party rentals for additional barware supplies to elevate your beverage service. 

5. A Festive Atmosphere 

Good vibes are the ultimate goal for a family cookout. You want your guests to feel a sense of warmth, joy, and relaxation the moment they arrive. 

Transform your backyard or rented space into a vibrant oasis with colorful banners, gingham tablecloths, or whimsical paper lanterns. If you prefer a more subtle ambiance, opt for soft string lights and enchanting lanterns that emit a warm glow as the evening sets in. Don't have these items on hand? No problem! Backyard party rentals offer a cost-effective solution, allowing you to effortlessly rent beautiful lighting decor for that and other rental backyard decor ideas at a fraction of the price. 

To further elevate the mood, curate a playlist filled with upbeat tunes that will keep everyone tapping their feet and embracing the lively atmosphere. 

6. Fun and Games 

Finally, no family cookout is complete without a lineup of exciting and engaging activities to keep everyone entertained — not just the children. Plan some age-appropriate activities that cater to different interests and abilities. 

Fortunately, the options are endless. From classics like three-legged and sack races to modern favorites such as cornhole and giant Jenga. These games can easily be hired from reputable backyard party rentals, saving you the hassle of purchasing and storing them. 

To add an extra level of excitement, why not organize a friendly tournament where families can compete? Family and sibling rivalry will naturally ignite the competitive spirit, but you can amp up the stakes by offering prizes to the winners. 

Invite Ultimate Party Rentals 

Ultimate Party Rentals is passionate about helping customers create unforgettable moments with loved ones. With a wide range of backyard party rentals and delivery services, we are the go-to events and rental partner for customers in Nashville, middle Tennessee, Clarksville, TN, and Bowling Green, KY. 

Why stress over the logistics when you can invite us to the cookout? Find everything you need from our extensive party rental catalog today and we’ll help you create an event your family and friends will cherish for years to come. 


Michelle Fuqua

Michelle has been in the event rentals business since 2008 when she started The Ultimate Party Store to provide affordable and high-quality party decorations for any event. After dabbling in providing table and chair rentals, Michelle opened Ultimate Party Tents and Events, fully committing to providing everything anyone would need for an event in the Nashville-Hendersonville area. As a local business owner, she gives back to her community by volunteering her time to local organizations and events.