Maybe I live in a snooty area... parties here, especially kids parties are very formal. Way more formal than a BBQ.

Aren't humans funny creatures We all have our little ways...
we must be in a snooty area too Cai! definitely more importance placed on kids parties than BBQ gatherings. around here, BBQ's (unless for a specific party like a birthday) are pretty much "the grill will be on at X time, we'll supply this, if you want to come along, come along"

funny how different people see things differently...