Summer Entertaining
Crafting Memorable Outdoor Events from Start to Finish
Last weekend's summer barbecue was pure magic as Steve and I opened our property to friends and clients from our personal passion project, DIY Designer Homestead. We created a gathering that perfectly embodied what Fresh Roots Living is all about. As we fired up the grill, our space transformed into something beautiful - a place where genuine connections flourished amidst the calming embrace of nature.
Watching our guests discover quiet corners of the property to breathe deeply, witnessing conversations flow as naturally as our creek, and experiencing the profound satisfaction of serving farm-to-table food in an environment that invites people to simply be present, reminded us that the most nourishing experiences happen when we slow down, step outside, and create inviting spaces where community can gather and souls can exhale in the beauty of intentional, grounded living.
Summer Barbecue Bliss
Fresh Roots Living invites you to host a sun-dappled afternoon barbecue in your backyard, where thoughtful preparation meets farm-to-table flavors and timeless, simple elegance. Picture a gathering that's all about smoky grilled dishes, heartfelt connections, and a classic outdoor setup that feels effortlessly inviting. Here's how to create a memorable barbecue that keeps guests talking long after the sun sets.
Envision Your Rustic Retreat
Imagine friends and family gathered in your backyard, laughter mingling with the scent of sizzling barbecue. This afternoon vibe is relaxed yet intentional—think close-knit vibes with a touch of charm. Keep it budget-friendly with borrowed wooden chairs, mason jar wildflower vases, and vintage plates for a homey, lived-in feel.
Set a Classic Scene
Transform your outdoor space into a welcoming haven. Long wooden farm tables, draped with crisp white linens or burlap runners, create a communal vibe. Scatter wildflowers like lavender and simple greenery for natural centerpieces. String lights and citronella candles add a warm glow as the afternoon fades, while sturdy tables ensure no wobbly wine glasses disrupt the fun. Picnic blankets on the grass invite kids to play nearby, keeping the vibe inclusive.
Grill Farm-Fresh Favorites
Serve a farm-to-table barbecue menu straight from the grill. For inspiration, this was our menu:
Slow-Roasted Pork
Succulent, slow-cooked baby back and spare ribs, pork loin, and pork butts smoked to perfection with a delicate blend of herbs and spices. Served with a variety of sauces including apple cider vinegar, wasabi aioli, BBQ, caramelized onions, and a tangy chimichurri.
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chipotle-Lime Butter
Sweet corn roasted to perfection, brushed with smoky chipotle-lime butter, and finished with a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
Smoked Four-Cheese Macaroni with Bacon & Jalapeños
Creamy elbow macaroni folded into a rich, velvety blend of smoked Gouda, Manchego, Jarlsberg Swiss, and Gruyère cheeses. Finished with crispy Applewood-smoked bacon and fresh jalapeño slices for a bold, smoky kick and a touch of heat.
Slow-Cooked Caramelized Sauerkraut with Onions
A savory, slow-simmered sauerkraut gently caramelized with sweet onions, delivering a perfectly balanced, rich, and tangy flavor.
Smoked Maple Bourbon Baked Beans
Rich and hearty baked beans slow-cooked with smoked bacon, a touch of bourbon, and a drizzle of Steve’s maple syrup for deep, smoky sweetness.
Crisp Asian Slaw with Rice Wine Vinegar, Toasted Almonds & Sesame Seeds
A vibrant and refreshing slaw of finely shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and thinly sliced green onions tossed in a tangy rice wine vinegar dressing. Finished with toasted sliced almonds and sesame seeds.
Gin & Brown Sugar-Drizzled Fruit Medley
A colorful assortment of fresh seasonal fruits—citrus, berries, and melons—lightly drizzled with a decadent Bombay gin and brown sugar syrup for a perfect balance of sweetness and botanical notes.
House-Made Dollar Buns with Maple Butter
Warm, flaky, and buttery rolls served with Steve’s locally sourced maple syrup.
Candied Applewood Bacon
Crisp Applewood-smoked bacon enrobed in a caramelized blend of brown sugar, toasted cashews, and a hint of cayenne for subtle heat.
Artisan Cookie & Bar Collection
An elegant assortment of freshly baked gourmet cookies and decadent brownies.
Serve with Ease
Set up a buffet on a rustic table (try a door on sawhorses, draped with linen). Arrange plates first, then grilled mains, sides, and napkin-wrapped utensils for a smooth flow. Nestle cold salads in ice with fresh herbs for flair, and use mesh covers to keep dishes fresh in the summer heat. A drink station with mint-infused water, local craft beers, and acrylic goblets feels festive yet practical, with extra ice stashed in coolers to beat the warmth.
Create the Perfect Mood
Soft acoustic tunes set a relaxed tone, shifting to upbeat classics as the afternoon unfolds. String lights draped over trees and solar stakes along paths ensure safety and charm as daylight dips. Offer shade with market umbrellas and cooling fans for comfort, plus discreet bug repellent in woven baskets to keep pests at bay. These touches show your care for every guest.
Make It Seamless
Prep ahead to stay present. Marinate meats and mix salads a day prior, booking rentals like tables early for summer's busy season. On barbecue day, follow a simple timeline: grill in the morning, set tables by noon, and welcome guests by 2 PM. Enlist a friend to manage the grill, freeing you to mingle. For ease, handle mains yourself or hire a local chef for the proteins, giving your gathering a pro polish.
Craft Lasting Memories
This barbecue is about making guests feel at home—welcomed by clear directions, thoughtful dietary options (like veggie skewers), and your warm presence. Use foil-lined dishes for easy cleanup and send leftovers home in guest containers. As the afternoon glows over your property, your simple, classic setup and farm-fresh flavors create a joyful escape.
For Twin Cities Locals
Bobby and Annie worked together to create this beautiful event for us. Reach them here:
Bobby’s Gourmet & Culinary Studio
Discover the Collection Showcased in the Story
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Cari Ann Carter is a multi-faceted entrepreneur whose passion for sustainable living and design has flourished across several successful ventures. As the creative force behind DIY Designer Homestead, she has cultivated an expanding Instagram following through her authentic home design content, organic gardening expertise, and signature floral arrangements. Her professional foundation rests on the Cari Ann Carter Group, a respected real estate company with 26 years of experience offering comprehensive design, build, and renovation services, as well as property staging and curated home events.
Cari Ann is now expanding her vision with the launch of Fresh Roots Living.