Honored to be recognized with a Communicator Award of Distinction and with a Charlie Award by the Florida Magazine Association.

Horizon West Magazine

Blog Post

Backyard BBQ with Tips From Gertrude's Kitchen

May 18, 2020

How to Host the Perfect At-Home Event! 

Memorial Day is coming up! Make like mom always did and host a backyard bash complete with delicious BBQ! 

Not sure where to start? 

Luckily, Horizon West is home to an expert in all things home cooked, thanks to advice passed down through generations. Gertrude’s Kitchen, owned and operated by Shonda Singleton-Taylor, has been hitting the spot with her home spun family recipes for many years. We asked her for her advice on how to host a backyard BBQ that’s sure to be a hit. 

Here are her tips to make your Memorial Day a sweet success:

TIPS FROM GERTRUDE'S KITCHEN

1. Prepare - Determine your menu (meats, sides, and desserts). Make sure to include something for everyone, in case you end up with a picky eater or two. Make sure you have enough tables and chairs for social distant seating in order for your family and guests to feel comfortable. 

2. Plan - Create a Shopping List. Determine your backyard BBQ décor such as tablecloths, plasticware, plates, cups, etc. Always plan to have a little extra of everything in case your guests bring along a friend or family member. 

3. Shop - Based on your meat selection, choose the type of wood or charcoal you would like to use to barbecue your meats and/or vegetables. Make sure you have the proper tools and serving dishes on hand, so you don’t find yourself without serving spoons the day of! 

4. Delight - Choose a refreshing beverage such as a Strawberry Lemonade made with fresh strawberries and juicy lemons! A simple twist on a summer favorite will delight your guests and taste delicious in the warm Florida heat. 

5. Relax - Enjoy the day! Holidays are every reason to relish the time spent with your loved ones. Kick off your summer, relaxed and ready to make some memories! 

If all morning in the kitchen doesn’t sound like your ideal day, don’t worry! Gertrude’s Kitchen  has everything you could possibly want on the table! Fill out the form below and treat your family to a feast. 


 



Stay updated on all of the community news in Horizon West by Signing up for Our eNewsletter >>

 


Share This Story...

March 26, 2025
Your Guide to Celebrating Easter in Horizon West
By Leah Emmanouilidis March 18, 2025
District 1 Safety Expo Brings Fun, Learning and Community Connection to Horizon West
By Marie Robinson March 13, 2025
Hamlin's New Mexican Concept to Open This Summer
By Marie Robinson March 3, 2025
An Exclusive Sneak Peek into Horizon West's Highly Anticipated Hangout
Embark on a journey of discovery and transformation on an Alaskan cruise with fellow Horizon Westers
March 2, 2025
Embark on a journey of discovery and transformation on an Alaskan cruise with fellow Horizon Westers! 🚣‍♀️✨ ONE OF LAST REMAINING BALCONIES + ON-BOARD CREDIT* *$200 on-board credit compliments of Horizon West Magazine
February 21, 2025
Camps with Close-to-Home Convenience in HW!
By Marie Robinson February 6, 2025
Library Pop-up Events Emerge Ahead of Horizon West Branch Opening
By Leah Emmanouilidis January 3, 2025
Auditions for the 2025 Season are Here!
By Marie Robinson November 22, 2024
Locals gather to plan healthy vision of biking and walking
By Marie Robinson November 18, 2024
Local charities & businesses team up for season of giving
More Posts
Share by: