Picture Perfect Picnicking

“Spring is nature’s way of saying “let’s party!”

— Robin Williams

What’s a more beautiful way to greet the warm weather months than sitting outside with some tasty delights, cold bubbles and good friends? A day like this can be realized on a beautiful restaurant terrace or a less formal but equally dreamy picnic outside. A picnic is the ultimate celebration of nature. As soon as the weather turns and the sun begins peeking through the clouds, I know it’s time for my first of many pilgrimages to the park for a picnic with friends. I love the relaxed vibe of sitting on the ground outside, taking in some sun and having friends casually coming and going. The relaxed nature is a great way to entertain without the pressure of having guests at your home and it’s a good way to combine groups that don’t know each other yet. In fact, the first time I was introducing Alessandro to my friends, I chose to host a picnic in Central Park to keep things light and casual. This year, after being locked up in our homes for months, I’m sure we all have a newfound appreciation for being outside. If social media tells us anything, it’s that everyone is raising their picnic game, creating ever more beautiful displays and experiences. Here’s a list of ways to make take your picnicking game to the next level and some inspiration from across the web.

1. Location. Location. Location.

   Get creative about where you spread out. You’re not limited to parks and beaches. In fact anywhere that you’re able to be spread out outdoors can work. Be sure to also consider riverbanks, your backyard, balcony or terrace.
   

2. Packing List

   1. A Light-Colored Picnic Blanket - I don’t use the flat sheets that come with bedding, so in our home, these are designated for picnicking. Aim for light colors such as whites and beiges. Yes they stain easier, but they make for a brighter and ethereal display

   2. Wicker Baskets or Bags - Why wicker? Because besides being aesthetically pleasing, they’re sturdy

   3. Wooden Boards - Meaning cheeseboards or cutting boards of different sizes. These are great for your fruit and cheese, but also to balance your drinks. marble boards are beautiful though a bit heavy to lug around

   4. Fresh Flowers - They add a touch of color and enhance the overall aesthetic

   5. Fresh Fruit - There’s a reason artists have spent centuries painting still lifes of fruit. Besides being healthy and delicious treats, they add life, color, shape and texture to your display

   6. Real Glasses and Utensils- Next level stuff. Graduate from plastic and paper and bring in the real deal. Do it for the shot

   7. Nuts/Fancy Pastries/Baguette - Delicious and good looking

   8. An assortment of cheeses - Everyone likes cheese

   9. Cold bubbly - The sound of a prosecco or champagne bottle popping is an instant mood lifter

   10. Good Friends - Friends that bring a positive vibe and won’t get upset at all the attempts you need to get the perfect shot

Enjoy!