I loved this fun read - I am not surprised by guests keeping their own time when invited to an event but what can you do? In fact I have been criticized for being too fastidious about time because I tend to be the odd one out -

Were your guests trying to be polite when they did not state their food preferences/allergies early on? But that was not fair to you - anyways I like the last part best - about having a relaxed party where no one stands on ceremony 💙