Feeding a family of four is challenging enough, but feeding your entire extended family? Yikes. Not to worry--there are lots of ways to ease the workload. See if any of the following options would suit your crowd.

• Host a buffet taco bar, build six-foot hoagies, or make your own sundaes.

• Ask each guest to contribute a dish and share the wealth.

• Have each family bring their own picnic.

• Have each family bring their own meat, fish or chicken to barbecue, plus a potluck salad or dessert or drink to share.

• Cater the whole affair.

• Try regional foods. When in Texas, eat barbecue. When in New England, have a clambake.

• Hold the meal at a local restaurant.