1.) Clean it up! Make sure you clean your yard prior to having guests over. While it's not totally necessary to have a completely cleaned backyard, it IS good habit. Be sure to prep your grill before guests arrive as well. Nobody wants old, crusty BBQ residue on their food. Remember, as many of you already know, heating your grill makes cleaning and prepping your grill much, much, much easier. If you are using a smoker, be sure to clean out any old ashes in the fire box.

2.) Don't forget the vegetarians. Yes, there are actually people out there than can somehow manage to resist the melt-in-your-mouth flavor of smoked meats. Don't ask me how they do it though. You can cater to vegans by providing lots of salad and vegetable alternatives. Try my Squash Rockefeller Recipe, it's meat-free and will blow your guests away.

3.) Think about the kids. Whether you are expecting to have kids to your get together or not, there is always the possibility that a few might show up. If you have nothing fun for the kids to do at the BBQ, they will end up pestering their parents into leaving early- and nobody wants their friends to jet out quickly!

For the older kids try setting up a game of Washers. They will love you for it I promise. For the younger kids, try setting up a scavenger hunt before guests arrive. Candy works best and is a great after-BBQ dessert!

4.) Don't skip out on dessert. Some people have a sweet tooth they just can't get rid of, so you should always be prepared with a killer dessert. My favorite is Bread Pudding in Bourbon Sauce. There's something special about the taste of bread pudding after a big ol' plate of barbecue. I am not 100% sure what it is, but there's definitely a great connection between the two flavors.