DREAMY SUMMER PICNICS

When our family was younger, one of our favorite things to do on Saturdays in the Summertime was to go on picnics! I loved spending the afternoon with yummy snacks, a good book, and a bottle of lemonade - relaxing while the kids played and Mr.P snoozed. We still do quite a bit of picnicking when we travel. Not only is it economical but enjoyable to sit back, rest and people watch. Now that the days are warmer, maybe Mr.P and I will pack up some food, and enjoy the beautiful outdoors with a picnic.  When it comes to picnics, most of us like to create a unique yet effortless experience. Here are a few ideas that have been inspiring me for the future.  

How dreamy is this? 
source

The food at this picnic looks ah-mazing.

source

I always love movie nights.

source

Can we talk about this table?

source

The perfect rooftop evening in the city.

source

This picnic basket would be perfect for a surprise date!

source

Oh, Paris. I love you best of all.

source

On the beach with the girls.

source

Out on the dock.

source

Here are some easy picnic tips to keep in mind:

1. The picnic basket is obviously an essential item. Feel free to get creative and use different kinds of containers. I prefer baskets with open tops and large handles that can be piled with lots of goodies and easy to carry; making a lovely showpiece.

2. Keep it easy by picking a theme. Choose simple things like fruit, cheese, wine, sandwiches. It’s nice to have bread, sparkling water, and finger foods - like berries, grapes, and nuts for snacking. If you have more time, get a bit more creative. Store a variety of olives in vintage Ball jars, make a fun dessert in a jar, and mix some lemonade.

3. Add flowers for a nice and unexpected touch. A splash of color to your basket arrangement will make your picnic extra special. Decorate the flowers in a Ball jar. If you can’t bring glass there are some cute plastic options out there too.

4. Pack a fun blanket! Whether you go for a classic Pendleton or an old quilt, it really adds to the outdoorsy ambiance.

5. Bring a game. Savor the time outdoors, whether your are spending alone time with your sweetheart or a group of friends, pack a deck of cards or other favorite game. 
6. Take along a camera or a Polaroid to capture the special moments!
7. Sit back, relax and ENJOY!

savor, life, picnic, fun, summer, movie night, canoeing, up on the roof, baskets, sandwiches, lemonade, family, friends, spontaneous, easy, relaxing, beach, games, memories, ideas, inspiration, how-to,