15 Essential Supplies for an Outdoor Party or BBQ

Martha Stewart Collection BBQ Watermelon Melamine Dinner Plates, Set of 4

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Melamine plates are an excellent option for outdoor gatherings where you don't wish to use paper plates but don't want to worry about your nicer dinnerware, either. There are so many great prints and patterns to choose from when shopping for melamine products—why not have a little fun and select a summery print that will get your guests into the seasonal spirit?

Threshold 15oz Large Round Ceramic Citronella Candle in White

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A citronella candle will ensure that all that your guests will remember from your party are all of the laughs they had with friends... not the critters that just wouldn't stay away! Keep yourself and your guests bug bite free with a functional candle that happens to look pretty cute.

C.R. Gibson X&O Paper Goods Blue 'Just a Splash' Mermaid Beverage and Cocktail Napkins

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We won't judge you for wanting to add an Instagrammable moment to your backyard soiree. Cheeky cocktail napkins will have friends busting out their phones in no time. This budget-friendly set is absolutely perfect for summer.

Crate & Barrel 2-in-1 Bean Bag Toss

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No outdoor gathering is complete without some games. This two-in-one bean bag toss and tic-tac-toe board will appeal to guests of all ages. We love how sleek and sophisticated this set looks.

Mind Reader Beverage Chiller 5-Gallon Tub

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There's nothing better than an ice cold beverage on a hot day. This metal party tub is practical but happens to look super pretty. You'll actually be excited to bust it out every time you entertain!

Williams Sonoma Rainbow Pop Molds

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Popsicles are the perfect summertime dessert. Kids and adults alike will go wild for a customized treat. Plastic molds make it easy for you to whip up a different yummy creation every time you host.

Sol 72 Outdoor Onyx Colworth Plastic Adirondack Chair

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Great lounge chairs will help keep adults nice and comfy as they sit back and watch the kids play. Adirondack chairs never go out of style and are known for their durability.

West Elm Horizon Drink Dispenser With Stand

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Outdoor gatherings are supposed to be nice and laid back, so keeping them buffet style and allowing guests to serve themselves is A-OK. A beverage dispenser makes it easy for your friends to replenish their glass of flavored water, lemonade, or punch... you name it!

HANSGO Flamingo Paper Straw Decorations, 50 Pieces

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Everything tastes better when it's consumed via a colorful paper straw, right? Keep a few of these on hand to get the party spirit going after a long work week.

Crayola Washable Sidewalk Chalk

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Set out some sidewalk chalk to keep kids occupied while the burgers are cooking. Little ones will have fun drawing their own hopscotch boards or writing messages to each other, and parents will be all for this simple, screen-free activity.

Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face Dry-Touch Sunscreen

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Keeping extra sunscreen on hand to offer to your guests is a must when hosting a get together outside. A large bottle like this one will last for several weeks on end.

Pottery Barn Galvanized Metal Rectangular Serving Tray with Wood Handles

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A large platter makes it easy to serve hamburgers and hot dogs fresh off the grill. You can never go wrong with a classic galvanized metal option that's excellent for the outdoors. This piece can even be monogrammed if you want to add some extra flair or gift it to a pal when it's their turn to host.

GRILLHOGS Luxury 16-Inch Barbecue Grill Tongs

4.5

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If your BBQ tongs have seen better days, now is the time to stock up on a set that'll work great without breaking the bank.

Zuru Crazy Bunch O Balloons 100 Rapid-Filling Self-Sealing Water Balloons

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If you're looking for a way to cool down at the end of the night, why not have some good old fashioned fun with a game of water balloons? (Of course, you'll want to consider guests to wear their swimsuits or show up in an outfit they won't mind getting wet). Keep the balloons in a cooler and then bust them out when it's time to play.