Guest Picks: Build a Better Barbecue

Keep those beers icy cold and accessible in this classic drink bucket. I love the rope handles.

I love the vibrant clusters of fruit and flowers on these plates. They are great for easy outdoor entertaining when you want to keep it classy but casual. Added bonus: They are dishwasher safe.

Hang a cluster of these pretty lanterns to add a romantic glow outside — very Arabian nights.

Serve up your guac in style with this traditional, volcanic rock Molcajete. Throw in a couple of margaritas and you've got yourself a theme party.

How do you instantly upgrade your outdoor space from average to awesome? Add a fire pit.

Cheer up your patio furniture in a second with colorful blooms of mums and daisies in a fun, graphic print.

An interesting all-weather rug can add a finished feel to your outdoor setup. I'm loving this Moroccan-inspired design.

Unexpected pops of color rule, especially when they come with pie.

This steel grill roaster makes it easy to be a grill master. This is great, especially for veggies and more delicate foods that tend to fall through the grill.

Form and function meet in this beautifully designed terracotta backyard grill.

Can you say perfectly smoked, juicy, baby back ribs? Yes, I think so.

This watermelon serving bowl is just adorable. Pile up the fruit salad or icy, vodka-soaked watermelon.

Hot dogs served on a hot dog plate. Need I say more?

Fun patterns and summer picnics go hand in hand.

The built-in ice chamber in this drink dispenser is a brilliant way to keep sangria well chilled, without diluting it with melted ice.

These metal banana leaf trays are high on my wish list for summer entertaining wares. Hello, tropic chic.

Great idea of the day: Throw an outdoor pizza party.

Banish all memories of struggling with your old blender with this Vitamix. You will instantly become a frozen drink queen with this beast of a machine at your fingertips. Check out the reconditioned versions for a break on the price — they work perfectly and are still backed by a five-year full warranty.

Go high-tech with this solar-powered lantern. It automatically lights up at night.

Get messy with a lobster boil this summer — bibs included.

Next: 21 Patios Ready to Party