BBQ Catering Ideas for a Casual Wedding Feast

“When people gather around a grill, they’re not just waiting for food. They’re waiting for a memory.”

Weddings don’t always have to be black tie and white linens. Some of the most unforgettable celebrations are laid-back, laughter-filled, and yes, served with a side of smoky barbecue. If you’re planning a wedding that’s big on heart and flavor but low on fuss, BBQ catering is your best friend.

At The Four Columns in Harvey, we’ve seen firsthand how a sizzling grill and well-planned menu can turn a simple wedding into something magical.

Let’s dig into the flavors.

BBQ Catering Ideas That Guests Actually Remember

Here’s the truth: people will forget your centerpieces, but they’ll talk about the brisket for years. The key to a solid BBQ wedding menu is balance. Go bold on flavor, generous on variety, and smart with presentation.

• Slow-Smoked Brisket
• Barbecue Chicken with a Glaze
• Chargrilled Andouille Sausage
• Classic Pulled Pork (bonus: build-your-own slider station!)
• Grilled Veggie Kebabs for the plant-based crowd

This kind of spread says one thing: welcome, grab a plate, and stay awhile.

Outdoor Grilling Menus That Feel Like a Celebration

If your wedding is happening outdoors, under twinkle lights, with a breeze coming off the bayou, there’s no better match than a live grill setup. A visible grill crew adds theater to your event and gives off that unmistakable Southern charm.

Here’s what works well on outdoor grilling menus:

• BBQ Shrimp skewers
• Grilled oysters (hello, local flavor)
• Sweet corn on the cob with Cajun butter
• Marinated chicken quarters over mesquite
• Pit-roasted whole hog (for larger weddings)

Set it up buffet-style, or go full-on family-style for that Sunday cookout vibe.

Pair It With Southern Comfort Sides

The grill’s the star, sure, but the sides play a supporting role that can’t be ignored. Keep it true to your roots with:

• Potato salad (yes, we offer the creamy kind with a kick)
• Jambalaya or red beans and rice
• Macaroni and cheese, baked, bubbly, and topped with breadcrumbs
• Coleslaw, both vinegar-based and creamy
• Cornbread muffins with honey butter

And don’t forget a cold station for salads, fruit, and house-made pickles. That contrast matters when the plates are stacked high with heat.

Don’t Skip the Sweet Stuff

Just because it’s BBQ doesn’t mean the dessert table takes a backseat. Go for the kind of desserts that feel homemade, nostalgic, and a little indulgent:

• Bread pudding with rum sauce
• Pecan pie tarts
• Banana pudding
• Strawberry shortcake
• Chocolate mousse in little cups (trust us, they’ll go fast)

These are the desserts that make your guests pause mid-convo and say, “Mmm, you’ve got to try this.”

Why Couples Love BBQ Weddings at The Four Columns

We’ve catered weddings across every season, and BBQ weddings are always a hit. They’re approachable, flavorful, and bring people together. Whether you’re planning a backyard-style celebration or a full wedding weekend with a casual reception night, our BBQ menu fits like a glove.

We offer on-site grilling, live stations, or pickup options. Want an oyster station or Cajun-style crab boil to round it out? We’ve got you covered.

And if you’re worried about the mess, don’t. Our team handles everything from setup to cleanup, so you can focus on celebrating, not scraping grill grates.

Let’s make your wedding feel like home.
Let’s make it yours.

Contact for more details.