I have seriously overstretched with a barbecue and I am panicking.

[Theresip]

I decided to have a barbecue next weekend because I’ve got my garden looking the way I want it and I do enjoy hosting. I’ve been inviting people for the last couple of weeks or so. I thought I’d invited around 10 people but I haven’t. I’ve invited almost 20. I’ve only just counted them up and now I am seriously panicking.

I’m not a particularly good cook, never mind on a barbecue. How on earth can I do 20 burgers and sausages and time it so people aren’t sitting starving? It’s a charcoal barbecue so putting more charcoal on after one batch would mean some people waiting another 40 minutes whilst the coals cook and I cook again?? What can I do?

And also, my garden isn’t tiny, but it’s not particularly big. I have a garden sofa and stools that could fit around six people near the kitchen door, and then on the upper decking I’ve got a high dining table that would seat another six. I do have additional small stools but they’re too little for the high table and it would be very squashed round the other table because it’s right in front of the kitchen where everyone will be getting their drinks.

Any advice gratefully received. I have never hosted for this number.

I haven’t. You’ve got reading difficulties. But honestly, don’t upset yourself. It’s just a thread about a barbecue.

I don’t think these men are those type of men.

Because they’ve asked politely if they should bring anything and I’ve politely said no thanks, I’m providing the food, and just to bring themselves and their alcohol. I have no idea why you’re so upset, or how it relates to sitting and barbecue grill room.

I have had plenty of parties in the past, as have my neighbours.

Is it tiring having to name change so often?

Simple: As soon as the men arrive, ask them which one wants to be on barbecue duty and watch them fight over it.

Yes.

Then you need to invite some that are!

Thanks. It has absolutely blown my mind how many times this has been said. The men coming won’t fight over the barbecue, and I wouldn’t want them to. I’m happy to barbecue when I’m the host, it was just advice on the logistics.

No, I won’t.

OP, im sure you will be fine on the day. Have a lovely BBQ.

You have tbe patience of a saint, you really seem to have triggered some of the mumsnet crazies.

I have never posted about anything of the sort. I think you need to seriously seek help if you’re spending your days on Mumsnet name changing and inventing things.

Thank you!

It is quite entertaining, if slightly concerning, how involved some posters get. Who knew a barbecue could be so triggering?

Yes, I’ve put the week in to woman this thread.