Rehearsal Dinner Question HELP!!!!!

I don't want to have the RD turn into another big expense and I wanted some ideas. Since alot of our family is coming from OOT I was thinking of having a BBQ. Do u think this will be too much work? I was going to have it at my house in the back. Maybe make it from 5-8 so people will be outta here by nine.
What do u guys think? What did u do? Also I know that my future inlaws r supposed to throw this but they r clueless about what they are expected to do and I don't know how to bring it up to my FMIL. HELP!!!

I think a BBQ is a great idea. If you think it might be too much work for you or your family, you can get extra dishes via a caterer and you can hire a waitress. My SIL did this for my Nephew's christening and my neices second b-day party and it was inexpensive and a great help to her. She got to really enjoy the party while the waitress passed out hor'derves, heated up food, set the tables, cleaned up and served the cake.
It may be worth looking into.
Good Luck

Definitely hire a waitress. my parents's friends did this for a party and it was the best thing they ever did. I dont think it was that expensive either.
As for your FMIL although you say they are clueless, I would still run it by her. most people have been to weddings and do know that it is the groom's families responsibility for the RD. You just would not want her to think you are stepping on her toes!TRUST ME!
If there are alot of out of town guests, you could consider having just the bridal party, their dates, parents and grandparents (siblings too if htey ar enot in the party. This is what I am doing becuase my FH is from out of state and half hte wedding is coming frm OOT
Good luck