There’s something inherently comforting and empowering about a girls-only backyard BBQ. The laughter, the shared stories, and the aroma of grilled favorites wafting through the summer air. It all creates a space where women can relax, connect, and feel like themselves without pretense.
Last year, 25 percent of Americans barbecued regularly. At this point, BBQs have become a part of the culture for many Americans.
But if you’re the host of the BBQ, your role extends beyond simply firing up the grill. To create a memorable and welcoming gathering, it’s important to consider the unique needs of your guests.
From the physical layout of your backyard to the emotional comfort you provide, everything needs to be perfect to ensure maximum inclusivity. And here’s how you can pull it off.
Curating the Guest List with the Intention
Every memorable girls-only event begins with the people. Hosting inclusively means looking beyond your immediate social circle and thinking about who might appreciate being invited.
At one point, the US was falling behind on the global inclusivity scale. However, new research shows that support for diversity and inclusion does exist among Americans.
You can reflect this through your all-inclusive BBQ party. Diversity in age, background, body type, and lifestyle experience can make your BBQ richer and more authentic.
It also helps to send out invitations that clearly explain what the gathering will be like. For example, letting guests know it will be a casual backyard hangout with food, music, and conversation gives them a chance to mentally prepare.
Being mindful of those who may not drink alcohol or consume certain foods also goes a long way in building trust and comfort.
Providing Comfortable Seating
Comfortable, varied seating isn’t just a matter of aesthetics; it’s about accessibility and thoughtfulness. Picnic blankets and folding chairs may work for some. However, not everyone can be expected to sit on the ground or perch on a flimsy lawn chair for hours.
Besides, 28 percent of Americans have to deal with chronic back problems. You can’t ignore this detail and not provide comfortable seating at your party.
Think about borrowing or renting outdoor cushions, low tables, or even hammocks. Create shaded areas for anyone sensitive to heat or sun exposure. Arrange your seating to encourage both group conversation and smaller, quieter exchanges.
Now, let’s talk about a topic most hosts wouldn’t think to consider: physical discomfort related to medical devices, specifically mesh implants.
Some women at your gathering may be living with mesh implants due to procedures related to pelvic organ prolapse or incontinence. Many of them might not openly discuss it, but the discomfort and pain can be real. Sitting for extended periods, especially on hard or uneven surfaces, can be excruciating for them.
Besides, thousands of women are pursuing a vaginal mesh lawsuit due to health complications stemming from these devices.
For women experiencing vaginal mesh complications, inclusivity means more than just offering them a plate of food. It means providing padded seating, low-stress activities, and the chance to enjoy the evening without having to explain or defend their discomfort.
Some may even be in the middle of legal action, working out the transvaginal mesh settlement amounts or awaiting decisions in their mesh lawsuits. The emotional burden can be as intense as the physical pain. Recognizing these realities without judgment can help them feel seen.
Designing a Food Spread That Welcomes Everyone
No BBQ is complete without good food, but inclusive hosting demands more than just offering veggie burgers as an afterthought. Whether your guests are vegan, lactose intolerant, or managing health issues like diabetes, they deserve to feel just as catered to as anyone else. That doesn’t mean turning your backyard into a culinary lab, but it does mean offering a few thoughtful alternatives.
Label everything. Create simple signage or ask a friend with beautiful handwriting to help. A tag saying “contains dairy” can save someone the risk of eating something that will make them sick later.
Also, be sure that everyone has access to water, fruit-based mocktails, and lighter fare if they don’t want something heavy. Women who are post-surgery or dealing with digestive issues often appreciate that subtle accommodation.
Music, Vibe, and Conversation That Don’t Exclude
Hosting an inclusive BBQ also means being mindful of the atmosphere you’re creating. Avoid music that’s overly aggressive or lyrics that make light of gender-based experiences.
Opt for a playlist that’s empowering, nostalgic, or simply joyful. Avoid music that can get personal when it comes to the lyrics. Some of your guests may be in recovery from trauma, navigating divorce, or grieving the loss of a loved one. Others may be single by choice, child-free, or exploring their identity.
The more you can steer the gathering away from the unspoken assumptions that often linger at all-girls events, the more relaxed everyone will feel. Laugh together, but also be okay with moments of silence. Not every conversation has to be deep but every guest should have the space to simply be.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you do a backyard BBQ in rainy weather?
Yes, a backyard BBQ can still happen in rainy weather with the right preparation. Using a covered patio, tent, or gazebo can keep the grill and guests dry. Some people even enjoy the cozy vibe rain brings to outdoor gatherings. Just make sure to keep electrical equipment safe and offer warm, comforting food to match the mood.
How should you plan an inclusive, all-girls BBQ party list?
To plan an inclusive all-girls BBQ, consider everyone’s dietary needs, comfort levels, and cultural backgrounds. Include vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal options, and don’t forget accessible seating and activities. Think beyond the usual pink themes, diversity in music, games, and food creates a relaxed and welcoming vibe. Most importantly, make sure everyone feels seen and celebrated.
What kind of food should you have at a BBQ for those who eat vegetarian?
A vegetarian BBQ can be just as flavorful with grilled veggies, plant-based burgers, tofu skewers, and halloumi or paneer. Add fresh salads, corn on the cob, and creative dips like hummus or tzatziki. Meat-free doesn’t mean boring; spices, marinades, and smoky flavors can turn veggies into BBQ stars everyone enjoys.
An inclusive girls-only backyard BBQ isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about saying, “I see you” without needing to make a spectacle of it.
Being inclusive means remembering that every woman comes with her own story, her own joys, and yes, her own pain. For all of them, a night of warmth, food, and genuine connection can be more healing than you’ll ever know. And if you can create that kind of night in your backyard, you’ve done something powerful.