I had the joy of returning to Living Local DMV as a lifestyle expert guest on DC News Now (DCW50). This was actually my fourth guest appearance on the show, and each time I’m reminded how much I love sharing ideas that help people celebrate life beautifully, whether it’s a luxury wedding, a corporate event, or a cozy backyard barbecue.

For this segment, we focused on something fun and festive: Labor Day entertaining tips. With summer winding down, Labor Day BBQs are the perfect chance to gather family and friends, enjoy the outdoors, and create memories before fall officially begins.

5 Labor Day Entertaining Tips to Wow Your Guests

As a wedding planner and event designer, I’ve spent decades helping people design unforgettable experiences. What works at an elegant ballroom reception also works at a casual cookout, because it is the details that matter! Here are the tips I shared on Living Local DMV to help you host a BBQ your guests will remember:

1. Set the Scene with Style. Use buffet blocks (or risers) to place your tasty treats or beverages on display. This is a clean and modern décor piece with a big impact. You can also add colorful napkins or pretty flowers. I love adding vintage vases and trinkets that I already have in my home. The key is to make your guests feel like you thought of them as you transformed your patio, deck and/or yard into an inviting, festive space.
2. Elevate Your Grilling Options. Yes, burgers and hot dogs are great staples, but you can also enjoy grilled oysters, grilled pizza, and my personal favorite — grilled peaches.
3. Serve a Signature Drink. Whether alcoholic or not, having a fun, themed beverage helps set the mood and adds a personal touch. Bonus points if you give it a festive name!
4. Make Everything Portable. Instead of large displays of food, present the food options in single-serve portions that guests can grab and enjoy. It’s fun, easy to enjoy, and there is less mess for your to clean up afterwards.
5. Always Keep Guest Comfort in Mind. Keep sunscreen, bug spray, and pitchers of ice water nearby so your guests are comfortable from start to finish.
6. Don’t Forget Dessert – Think beyond the usual! We placed our guests’ desserts in mason jars so they could enjoy them when they wanted and even take them home with them. Mini handheld sweets make a wonderful finale.

Where to Watch the Segment

You can watch an encore episode today at 1:00 p.m. Eastern on DC News Now.

Or you can watch it via this link.

Final Thoughts on Entertaining with Heart

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or planning a black-tie wedding, the principles of great entertaining are the same: thoughtful details, intentional design, and genuine hospitality. Those are the things guests remember long after the event ends.

I’d love for you to watch the segment and share your thoughts. Which of these Labor Day BBQ tips will you try this year? And do you have your own hosting hacks that never fail to impress? Let me know. I’d love to hear from you!

Love and Soul Always, Kawania