The Art of a Perfect Picnic
What do you think of when you hear the word picnic? Maybe Styrofoam plates and barbeque stains come to mind. Or perhaps a checked blanket sitting in the middle of the yard. Well, whatever your vision, I am here to help inspire you.
Today I am going to share the steps I use when planning an outdoor gathering. With a bit of effort and a little creativity you can create a beautiful and cozy outdoor space for your guests.
1. Who will be attending and when will they be coming?
Are you planning to have a friend for lunch? Maybe you're hosting a family for dinner. Or perhaps an older couple is joining you for dessert. This is a crucial step!
If you're planning on serving a full dinner you may want to have your picnic close to the kitchen so you can grab items you need. If there are young children coming you might want your picnic on a blanket vs. a table where it can be difficult to attach boosters/high chairs. If you're having older people, you should consider a location on flat even ground that can be easily accessed.
The goal in any situation is to make your guests feel special and comfortable with the atmosphere you've created.
2. What type of food will you serve?
Again, thinking of your guests and the time they will be coming is an important piece of the puzzle. I've personally found that the simpler the meal, the easier it is to serve when outside. For instance, you may not want to serve a piping-hot five course meal because you'll need lots of dishes and utensils. In addition, you'd have a hard time keeping everything warm and carting all of the food back-and-forth.
Subs, one pot meals, charcuterie boards, fresh fruits, and salads are all great options. Remember, it's not about cooking a five-star meal. I'll share a piece of advice that my grandmother gave to me: "They won't remember what you made, or if your house was perfectly clean, but they will remember if you made them welcome."
So don't stress over the food. Make a recipe that you're comfortable with and that you won't be stressed about serving. Your positive and relaxed attitude can really help to set a lovely tone for your picnic.
3. Set the mood.
This step is the most fun in preparing for your guests! The more you can plan this step out, the more special and unique your picnic will be. Consider things like lighting, the color of your tablecloth, fresh flowers, napkins, and music.
Little details can make ordinary moments seem special. If you know your guests love strawberries, plan to have a bowl of fresh berries easily accessible. If you're planning a birthday picnic, think about if your guest would like candles and the whole nine yards, or if they would prefer a more low-key celebration.
A strand of Christmas lights, or some old candles will go a long way in helping with lighting. A campfire can also be fun, especially if there are children around. Campfire stories and songs are some of the best things life has to offer. Just remember a citronella candle or essential oils if you have lots of bugs and mosquitos.
The main take-away from this section is trying to think of what makes you feel welcome when visiting someone else's home. I always love going to a home where you receive a warm welcome. I also enjoy an atmosphere that has music playing quietly in the background. It can be a good conversation starter and help to drown out any awkward silence. Incorporate the things that you find special and your guests will appreciate it.
4. Relax. At the end of the day the most important part is that you are comfortable in your surroundings. I've been to several uncomfortable dinners where a couple is bickering, someone seems stressed to the max, or the hosts seem distracted. That does not make me feel welcome. If fresh flowers, matching dishes, and candle light aren't for you, don't worry about it! I guarantee our guests would rather have a half burnt frozen pizza served with love, than a gourmet meal where you spend all your time attending to the food. Play to your strengths and rock the unique gifts that you have! Remember, it's about getting to know your guests, enjoying time with them, and developing friendships.
As a disclaimer, 3 of the photos in this post were taken by my talented brother-in-law, Eli. He has a great eye for photography and I want to make sure he gets credit where credit is due!
Leave a comment with a story from the most awkward meal/party you've been to and what you learned from that experience. Or share your tips for making guests feel welcome in your home. I would love to hear your thoughts and ideas!
Thanks for reading,
Abby
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