For most people, the word “picnic” evokes images of simple sandwiches, chips, and juice boxes spread out on a checkered blanket at the park. Pleasant enough, but hardly luxurious. However, a luxury picnic takes this classic summer activity up several notches for a truly refined, curated experience dining alfresco.
From selecting an idyllic lush setting to designing a bespoke menu and tablescape, orchestrating an upscale picnic soiree takes a bit more finesse and planning. But the effort pays off tenfold when you can fully immerse yourself in an afternoon of open-air indulgence.
Follow these tips for hosting the ultimate fancy picnic that will delight guests.
Choose an Inspired Location
Consider venues that intrinsically lend themselves to luxury, like a sprawling garden, vineyard, or even rooftop with Instagram-worthy backdrops. Scout your location ahead of time to discover photogenic spots for arranging picnic gear. Other elevated essentials are access to restrooms and shelter options in case the weather turns.
Curate the Menu
Skip basic sandwiches swapped out for artisan ones on crusty baguettes or wraps. Heartier mains like grilled salmon or sliced tenderloin work for luxury picnics, too. Bring along up-level sides like fresh fruit, charcuterie, specialty cheeses, and crisp salads.
Consider getting small single-serve bites like lobster rolls or sliders. And don’t forget the sweets table with French macarons, chocolate-dipped strawberries, or mini cakes.
Style the Tablescape
No need to skimp on finery al fresco - luxury picnics demand showstopping tables that cue specialness. Invest in a large, gorgeous blanket or even rug for guests to lounge on ultra-comfortably. Then, layer with linens, throw pillows for posing, and use elegant serveware.
Stock up on stemmed glassware and monogrammed napkins. Use hanging glass terrariums, bud vases, or lanterns as chic centerpieces. Design personalized menu cards for each guest tied to their place setting. Set the mood with ambient lighting like chandeliers, string lights, or lanterns for extra polish once the sun goes down.
Provide Five-Star Hospitality
Pamper your picnic patrons with top-shelf service. Have attendants on hand to handle retrieving items, freshening tables, and offering to take photos so guests can relax. Consider elegant comforts like cushy seating, citronella to ward off bugs, and a small bar setup. Offer cozy throws in case temperatures drop for an al fresco event into the evening.
Portable restrooms or access to facilities are a must. And have an onsite contact to manage any issues behind the scenes so lux picnickers don’t have to lift a finger.
The Art of Luxury Picnics
Curating a bespoke menu, luxe setting, and clientele is what elevates a standard picnic into a rarefied event. But thoughtfulness is the true mark of an exquisite affair where guests feel genuinely cared for.
So, provide plenty of cozy seating, shade, superior sound systems, and photo ops galore. Craft an experience where time slows down, joy bubbles up, and people feel thrilled to disconnect from digital noise and reconnect with nature’s beauty and each other with HV Queens of Teepees out in the open air.
