Social Dilemma-Is It Okay To Ask People To Bring Food to A Barbecue?

Interesting social dilemma today that may even be affecting you this weekend.  A friend of mine wanted to have a bbq on Monday to celebrate Memorial Day.  However, she knew she wasn't going to be able to get everything that's necessary for a bbq so she wanted to ask the guests to each bring something.  She asked me if I thought it was okay.  I said absolutely.  Hey I'm Italian, you never go to someone's house without something in hand anyway.  I'd rather bring something that they want or need.  She said her plan was to buy all the meets and main veges for the meal and wanted to ask some guests to bring side dishes, like macaroni salad, or corn on the cob, and chips and salsa.  You know, stuff like that.  I said I thought it was a great idea.   And while most of the people she asked were totally fine with it, there were four or five people who flat out said no.  Two of them even said they didn't think it was right for her to ask.  The others said they wouldn't have time to get something to bring.  There was lots of rumbling about how if you invite someone to your home, they shouldn't have to bring anything, that's the point of the invite.  Now my friend feels badly about asking.  So I thought I would ask you today.  Do you think it's okay to ask people you invite to your home to bring something along. .  What about you?  Let me know on the 98-3 TRY Facebook page.