Fire up the grill and start planning your menu. A backyard barbecue is a perfect venue for you and your friends to soak up the warm weather while it’s here. Here’s some brainstorming fodder for you: Lone Mountain Wagyu’s tips for throwing a fun summer BBQ party will have your friends talking about it long after the sun sets.

Set the Tone

What kind of BBQ bash are you throwing? For a wild and wacky kid-friendly barbecue, set up some toys and games in the yard. Beanbag toss and croquet are popular lawn games. If your party is for grown-ups only, hang some string lights and set up a mini-bar next to the food. Put out Bluetooth speakers and tailor a custom playlist to your guests’ tastes.

Be Prepared

Have all of your food prep work done before the first guest arrives. Turn on the lights and music a few minutes before people start trickling in. If guests begin to arrive before you’re done setting up, they might feel awkwardly early. Be ready for them, and be ready to party right away!

Amp up the Menu

Think about classic barbecue fare—burgers, ribs, potato salad, cold beer—and think about how you can dress it up. Fill a cooler with ice and stock it with craft beers from your local brewery. Swap out your grocery-store ground chuck for a Wagyu beef set packed with top-quality cuts of meat. Offer your guests a touch of luxury at your barbecue.

Cool Off

The dog days of summer can be hot and sticky. Set up ample space in the shade for guests to chill out. Inflate a kiddie pool and fill it with cold water in case young ones want to play or grown-up guests want to dip their feet in. Cold beer is an essential cookout staple, but you should have nonalcoholic drinks in the cooler as well to keep everyone hydrated.

Next time you plan an outdoor shindig, use these pointers to bring it to the next level. A Wagyu beef set will impress your guests, and ambient lights and music add to the relaxing summer atmosphere. Follow these tips for throwing a fun summer BBQ party and your friends will beg you to host again!