Before Jessica Simpson walks down the aisle, it's BBQ time!

The fashion mogul, sister Ashlee Simpson, the former Melrose Place star's fiancé Evan Ross, and other family members and friends headed to a Fourth of July barbecue bash at San Ysidro Ranch, the wedding venue, in summer chic garb, where multiple American flags were hung up outside of blue and white striped tents. According to a source, guests "seemed "excited, happy and in a rush to get there."

Inside of the venue, a small stage was set up and shrubbery was brought in from Green Set, a company based in North Hollywood.

According to an eyewitness, over 50 large potted arrangements of white flowers were sitting on the grass outside of the tents Friday morning, as well as hundreds and hundreds of flowers. There was also a shabby chic wheelbarrow filled with yellow sunflowers outside as well. Inside of the tents, there were blue Victorian themed chairs, white round ottomans and yellow roses scattered throughout.

As the pre-wedding party kicked off around 6 p.m, a band started playing Folsom Prison by Johnny Cash and funk music. According to People, the bash started with a cocktail hour with passed appetizers including lobster dogs and corn fritters and a shellfish station.

Guests were also treated to a Southern-inspired buffet packed with beef brisket, smoked BBQ baby back ribs, fried chicken, grilled shrimp, mac and cheese and potato salad.

And that wasn't all.

Dessert included pecan key lime, apple, peach and coconut cream pies, as well as creamsicles and watermelon.

As for the festivities, there was a photo booth and games for the kids to enjoy, among other things.

Sounds like a blast!

Source: eonline.com