Summer Essentials: The Cookout

Summer is almost upon us! Which means it's time to start planning your cookouts! I decided to put together a list of all the things you'll need to make your cookouts perfect. Check it out

1. Food- Obviously you're gonna need food. Simple things like hot dogs, sausages, burgers, and chicken. These are all easy to cook and affordable. Don't worry about steaks and shit. Unless you got it like that, then of course, worry about steaks and shit. Oh, you're gonna need potato salad and/or a pasta salad too. Side dishes are a must
2. Grill- Two choices Gas or Charcoal? Gas is easier to use, it starts faster, and maintains heat better. However the propane tanks can be a bit pricey. Ask anybody and you'll hear Charcoal tastes WAY better, but it's takes a awhile to get started, can cook food unevenly, and requires you to watch the food closer. Real men use Charcoal though.
3. Drinks- It's hot, maybe humid, so you're gonna need a few refreshing beverages for your guests. I'm a fan of lemonade (Simply being the best) but you could also try other drinks. Limeade is good and comes in a variety of flavors, fruit punch is a crowd pleaser, and homemade punches are nice too. If you're gonna be serving alcohol, beer is great or make a big batch of a mixed drink for people to sip on.
4. Music- A cookout is basically the toned down version of a house party. It'll show you a good time, but it won't get too crazy. Your music should get that across. Don't play shit like "Shots"-LMFAO, instead go for something up tempo but laid back. You want your guest to relax but not fall asleep. Throwback jams are ALWAYS welcome at a cookout. So breakout your faves
5. The Guest List- The final and perhaps most important item on the list is who you're actually inviting to this lil shindig. Known party poopers should be left at home. They'll bring down the mood and ruin someone else's time. Don't bring the guy who's gonna eat all the food, or the chick who's gonna be on her phone the whole time. The point of these things is for everyone to enjoy themselves, so invite the right guests!

If everything goes right, a daytime cookout could definitely turn into a nighttime house party. Just make all the necessary preparations and you should be fine. Have fun!

Tips:

Can't afford to buy everything for a cookout? Well ask your guests to bring supplies for the party, food, drinks, plastic plates, etc. They shouldn't mind as long as you approach them correctly.

A few people you want to/should invite but they might ruin a good time? Talk to them before hand and explain that their past behavior has offended some so be cool at the party.