BBQ like a society queen! Tatler shares its guide to the ultimate garden get-together including a 'French Riviera' dress code and decorating with jam jar vases (but there are no paddling pools allowed)
by Jessica Green For Mailonline- Despite the UK's lockdown, the sun is shining and it is time to get out the BBQ
- Tatler has revealed how to prepare a glamorous barbecue for ourselves at home
- Includes ditching the 'plastic paddling pools' and sporting 'French Riviera chic'
Now that we are allowed to host small get-togethers for groups of six in our back gardens, it is time to start thinking about how to make that first barbecue of the season one to remember.
Society bible Tatler has released its ultimate guide to holding a glamorous grill at home, including the perfect dress code, sporting entertainment and menu.
The magazine encourages those looking for a more sophisticated barbecue season to ditch the 'sticky plastic paddling pools and broken goalposts' and embrace a 'badminton net' instead.
It also suggests Britons should opt for a 'French Riviera chic' vibe when deciding what to put on for their day in the sun.
So from what to wear to the food you should dine on, here FEMAIL reveals how to hold a glamorous BBQ, Tatler-style...
Dress to impress
Lockdown has thrown society's summer plans into disarray, with jaunts to the Amalfi Coast or the South of France almost certainly out of the question.
However that doesn't mean you can't infuse a touch of holiday glamour into your next back garden barbecue.
Tatler suggests bringing the Med into your home by choosing a 'French Rivera' dress code. Think floaty dresses, a raffia sun hat, and crisp white linen.
If your guests are unwilling to invest in the theme then don't despair: there is nothing wrong with dressing up alone.
Decorate with style
Decorations can elevate a simple - and small - gathering into something worthy of Instagram... or the society pages of a high end magazine.
Fresh flowers are a good place to start and Tatler suggests presenting them in small bunches displayed in jam jars for added charm.
If you have the space, why not thinking about providing a standing umbrella or a handful of parasols that guests can use to shield themselves from the sun.
And while paddling pools and broken goalposts are a definite 'no', there is nothing wrong with a badminton net as a 'sophisticated alternative' - as long as space allows.
A menu fit for high society
A Pimm's-fuelled summer BBQ can be enjoyed at the height of glamour, but even Tatler agrees that you might want to change it up sometimes.
For those wanting to be a little daring, the guide suggests trying the bourbon-based cocktail Mint Juleps, which is an American classic.
'When it comes to food, burgers and sausages are non-negotiables, but why not expand your BBQ horizons? Prawns and salmon both pair beautifully with the smokey flavours of a grill,' the magazine adds.
Finish off your savoury menu with halloumi and vegetable skewers for vegetarians, plus salads and sauces.
And when it comes to choosing the barbecue to grill all your food on, there can only be one: the Big Green Egg. Prices vary but these must-have garden accessories can cost up to £2,600. The best-seller is the £1,045 'Large Big Green Egg'.