eternal optimism - how do any of you time barbecues?

[thewomanwhothoughtshewasahat]

how do you time barbecues? (I don't mean how long do you cook the sausages for) are they lunch or dinner? if lunch how early do you start? if dinner when do you ask people to arrive? If you were 20 something and childless how ouwld you time it? I ask coz I am contemplating inviting some 20 somtheing childless people to a barbecue (if we ever get a summer) we usually ask friends with kids round at 3-ish, serve a few sausages for kids tea first, then an early - but extended - dinner for adults, who stay for the whole evening. But I'd rather make this one a day time one. but not convinced they'd make it for lunch time. (god I'm old. I have 3 meals a day and can only cope with slight variations thereon)

Sorry, no advice but very impressed that you've managed to stay in contact with 20 childless couples . What a popular gal!

You don't, you say come for a bbq around 2 and feed them when the food is ready! Serve tortillas and dips to keep them going while they're drinking. Expect people to drop in anytime after 2 and keep the food going all afternoon. Watch what's going and cook more if necessary. It's supposed to be relaxing so don't stress but buy lots of food for later too in case they stay all evening as well!