Parris Lawn Put On A Great Show At Their Inaugural ‘Big Summer BBQ’
The team and residents at Parris Lawn love to host a sociable gathering so the date for the home’s inaugural Big Summer BBQ was circled in everyone’s diaries weeks in advance.
With the big day fast approaching, one thing the team at Parris Lawn Care Home could be confident about was the weather – yet another sunny day was forecast for July 21st.
Preparation, Planning and Plenty of Creativity
Meanwhile, there was lots of activity behind the scenes in the run up to the event. Every department took their responsibilities seriously and as the countdown to the big day continued, planning, booking, creating, cooking, organising and inviting duties were shared.
The morning itself brought a chilly start, then the sun shone on cue. Tables and chairs were arranged in the garden – with plenty of armchairs brought outside since there was absolutely no chance of rain – and a cheerful ice cream stand was erected, which would be run by Wellbeing Coordinator, Angela. The home’s gardener, Lucy, used her artistic flair, adding flowers and tapping into her knowledge of Feng Shui to make the area feel relaxed and welcoming.
Barbecue Takes Centre Stage as Family, Friends and Neighbours Join the Party
The barbecue was strategically placed at one end of the garden so residents could enjoy the theatre of their food being cooked and as guests arrived, Head Chef, Neil and Second Chef, Callum, were fired up for a busy afternoon. Residents took their seats, joined by over 30 relatives who were delighted that their loved ones could take part in such a happy and vibrant event. A group of local community members were also invited and were super-pleased to be included, declaring how nice it was that Parris Lawn always keeps the village involved.
The barbecue sizzled and juicy sausages, chicken and burgers were served, with optional onions and a range of fresh, colourful salads to choose from. For anyone with room, homemade strawberry and peach cheesecakes and a selection of fresh fruit were on offer, and Angela’s ice cream stand was a popular pit stop all afternoon.
Musical Magic as Manager Edwin Takes the Mic
No barbecue is complete without music and Rosie’s Retro Rhythms provided the perfect soundtrack to the fun as Rosie entertained an appreciative audience with a sequence of hits from the 1950s and 60s which got plenty of feet tapping. Home Manager, Edwin and Nurse, Genelle, surprised everyone with an impromptu – and very professional - performance of karaoke songs from the 1970s and 80s. As Customer Relationship Manager, Jesse, remarked, “Who knew Edwin had the voice of an angel and the dance moves of someone from Strictly”!
Inaugural Barbecue to Become A Regular Event
At the end of the day, everyone declared that the ‘Big Summer BBQ’ had been a huge success. The team now aim to make it an annual event, saying it had been worth all the hard work to create an entertaining afternoon where the home’s residents were able to thoroughly enjoy the experience in whichever way suited them best. With lots of smiles, good food, great company and a huge feeling of togetherness, it was the perfect way to celebrate the summer at Parris Lawn.
A Warm Welcome to Parris Lawn
Tucked away in the peaceful village of Ringmer near Lewes, Parris Lawn Care Home offers a calm and comforting environment with beautiful views over the South Downs. With 62 individually styled rooms, each with an en-suite wet room, residents enjoy privacy and comfort tailored to their needs. Whether your loved one requires residential, nursing, dementia, or respite care, our compassionate team is here to provide personalised support every step of the way.
Life at Parris Lawn is about more than just care, it’s about creating meaningful moments. Residents can relax in our cosy cinema, socialise in the bistro café, or treat themselves to a fresh new look in the hair salon. Our varied activities, from creative arts and crafts to gentle exercise and group games, help keep minds and bodies engaged in a friendly and supportive setting.
We invite you to book a private visit and see our home for yourself. To arrange a visit, call 01276 733 398.
