And they don’t have to involve kegs or togas. It seems that many guys forget how to throw a party after that first awesome basement keg party they threw when their parents were out of town. Some guys still consider a frat party as the benchmark for throwing a great get-together. Well Bro, it’s time to stop living in the past.

I’ve asked a couple of guys that I know to help me with some easy suggestions on how to throw a good, yet manly get-together... a Bro-B-Q, perhaps (alright, enough of that!). I promise it isn’t that hard to step up your game and impress your buddies, and the women in your life (including your mom!). Let’s break it down.

Food
Steaks are always a good bet, and if you get a grill going... even better. I’m sure you could get a friendly contest going with your fellow Grill Masters. Every guy becomes an expert when it comes to grilling, so it’s time to haul out those briquettes. Get out there and show your techniques with some burgers, chicken skewers, or fresh vegetables. It takes a real man to grill in a snowstorm!

Of course, there are other foods that you can prepare. Some are easy options. Phoenix-based, Designer, Mark LaPalm likes to “order freshly prepared pizzas that are uncooked and cook them as needed. They smell great, and are much better tasting than delivery. And you never have to eat a cold pizza.” Mark adds that he likes “buffet style serving as it is the easiest for parties. Let your friends relax and get food as they want.”

Philadelphia-based Style Expert, Jimmy DeLaurentis says that he’d “probably go Italian. Across the board, what guy turns his head on Italian?” And ads, “for a more refined taste, Kobe beef sliders, veal and or lamb chops are perfect, and why not throw in a ton of cookies and pies for dessert.” So, the motto seems to be, keep it simple, but, on the other hand, if you are a guy who knows your way around the kitchen, show your skills off. Game on.

Drinks
There is nothing wrong with keeping the drinks easy. Mark suggests renting a kegerator. ”It is a must. It keeps the beer chilled and fresh.” And, Jimmy suggests “a varied selection of draught beers, varying in low to higher alcohol content”. Or, “all shades of red wine... the heavier the better”. People love to talk about beers and wines these days, so give ‘em something to talk about. Mark says, ”Try introducing your party guests to a great beer!“ Even better, invite your guests to bring their favorites and start comparing. If your friends like the harder stuff, do the same with nice quality whiskeys or tequilas. Remember to have some cabs ready.

Decor
As most women can attest, many men don’t really care much about plate patterns, candles, or flower arrangements, but the details do matter. Paper plates are probably too flimsy for a man-sized portion of food, so use your strong stuff (porcelain will do just fine). Have plenty of simple cloth napkins around especially for BBQ’s.

Unless this party revolves around a sports event, turn the TV off! Don’t be afraid. But, if you are worried about the quiet, have everything ready for a poker game, but only after you eat the main meal. Everything seems to go awry when food and games go together. A mess usually follows.

If you have a televised sports event party, Mark suggests having some “other things to do that day, like darts or Xbox (in another room) for those guests that might not want to watch the game. And for those who are crazy for their sports teams, purchase team banners to hang, or better yet, have your adorable kids wear team jerseys.” No one can get upset at a cute kid when his team loses.

More
Jimmy wanted to add that “a cappuccino bar toward the end of the night and of course a cigar bar” is always a good way to end out the evening. I also like Mark’s idea; “Give cigars for a surprise competition. Pick something everyone will be unprepared for, like the guy with the cleanest car or biggest car engine”. Don’t forget to provide lots of ashtrays and a cigar cutter handy (and fans to blow out the smoke). Mark adds, “Have a comfortable place outside for the guys to sit around and enjoy that cigar.” It will be nicer for your significant other.

So, are you man enough to throw an easy, great party? Let’s see.

Above photo: Christopher Jagmin Number Paddle
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