Preparation Notes: Most everything on this menu can be prepared ahead, at least in part. The roasted tomato ketchup can be made up to three days ahead and refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before serving. The baked beans can be made up to three days ahead, cooled and refrigerated, then reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. However, they are so quick and easy, it is no problem to prepare them just before serving. The potato and pasta salads can be made the day before and refrigerated. Set them at room temperature for about thirty minutes before serving. The biscuits for the dessert can be prepared the day before and kept in an airtight bag or container.

The morning of the event, prepare and refrigerate the strawberries, as well as the deviled eggs. Several hours before dinner, make the hamburger patties and refrigerate. Whip the cream for the shortcakes and refrigerate. Don't forget to get everything out of the refrigerator that needs to come to room temperature. As guests arrive, set out the chips and pickles so they have something to munch on. (If you are expecting a large crowd, or people will be arriving more than an hour before the meal, you might want to add some dips for the chips, as well as some nuts and fresh vegetable crudites.) Heat the grill. Put out mustard, mayonnaise, relish, chopped onions and anything else that people might want in addition to the homemade ketchup on their burgers or hot dogs. When it is time to serve the dessert, place the biscuits in a cloth-lined basket, and the berries and whipped cream in separate serving bowls. Your guests can assemble the shortcakes as they like. That's it. All that's left to do is enjoy the day!