As I said, I already prepared blank brackets for 5,6, or even 7 pairs. It's highly unlikely that we'd make 8 pairs.
5 pairs - Triple Elim.
6 or 7 pairs - Double Elim
Since only 5 seeded players are pretty much sure to attend, and there are at least 10 other eligible players, it looks like we can definitely use the tiered format (even if Dave and Alvin do go).
I'll say it now though. In case we end up with an uneven number of entrants, someone will have to make the sacrifice of backing out of the tournament.
You'll have more time for burgers, if that's any consolation. 
Drawing lots for partners will probably start at 1:30. And then there'll be around an hour and 30 minutes for prep time. Hopefully we can start the tournament by 2:30 or 3:00 at the latest.
5 pairs - Triple Elim.
6 or 7 pairs - Double Elim
Since only 5 seeded players are pretty much sure to attend, and there are at least 10 other eligible players, it looks like we can definitely use the tiered format (even if Dave and Alvin do go).
I'll say it now though. In case we end up with an uneven number of entrants, someone will have to make the sacrifice of backing out of the tournament.
You'll have more time for burgers, if that's any consolation. Drawing lots for partners will probably start at 1:30. And then there'll be around an hour and 30 minutes for prep time. Hopefully we can start the tournament by 2:30 or 3:00 at the latest.
