Invitations for the barbecue

When the British summer finally obliges, out comes the barbecue. Whether it is a few friends round for burgers and a beer or a full garden gathering with the whole family, the BBQ is one of the easiest and most cheerful ways to entertain. It is also the kind of occasion where numbers matter — you need to know roughly how many to feed before you load the trolley at the supermarket. An online invitation gathers the replies for you and saves a string of 'are you coming?' texts.

The format is relaxed by nature. A casual afternoon in the garden with the neighbours; a family get-together with games for the children; or an evening barbecue that drifts into drinks once the coals die down. Numbers run from a handful to thirty or more. In our experience two things make or break a BBQ: knowing the headcount for the food, and a sensible word on the weather — a line about moving indoors if it rains, or a 'we'll let you know on the day', spares everyone the guesswork that a British summer guarantees.

A good invitation carries the host's name, the date, the start time, the address, and a note on the plan — burgers and sausages provided, bring a salad or a pudding, drinks on you or BYO. Mention whether children and dogs are welcome, whether there is seating in the garden or people should bring a chair, and parking. A bright, summery template fits the mood. A 'bring a dish' note works well for larger gatherings, sharing the load and the variety.

The digital format suits a BBQ down to the ground. The link goes out by WhatsApp or Messenger, the RSVP form counts the heads so you buy the right amount, and you can add a weather update in a tap if the forecast turns. A Google map guides anyone who has not been before, and a shared playlist keeps the afternoon going.