Guest Picks: Picnic Fixings
Savoring picnic fare under an open sky is even better with these al fresco accessories
The sunshine and blooming flowers beg my family to head out-of-doors this time of year, and so many of our gatherings turn into impromptu picnics. Each year I like to stock a picnic basket with essentials so we can just toss in the food and go. I've gathered these ideas to help streamline my picnic preparations. — Sasha from Lemonade Makin' Mama
Folding Wooden Picnic Table for Four
Ever shown up at a park on a gorgeous day, laden with picnic and barbecue items, only to find all the tables have been nabbed? Packing your own table is brilliant!
Jacquelyne Picnic Basket
I love this basket simply because of its classic picnic-baskety shape. And when picnic season ends, you could store anything in it, or keep it in your car stocked with roadside essentials.
Nifty Napkins
The pretty patterns on these fun cloth napkins bring a relaxed, slightly boho vibe to the scene.
Coco, Coffee Tote for Two
I never would have thought of this one myself: a coffee and bagel picnic. Perfect for those late spring and early summer mornings when a chill is still in the air, but the sunshine calls.
Corded Stripe Indoor/Outdoor Rug, Fresca Blue
I always think a blanket is the only way to go when dining alfresco, but a cheery, striped rug would do the job nicely — especially if it was a soft cotton fiber rug like this indoor/outdoor beauty. I could easily shake it off and roll it up for the drive home!
Raffia Outdoor Pillow
Toss a few easy-care outdoor cushions around when you break out the picnic items. These neutral pillows with monograms would mix and match with just about anything and add a hint of posh style to an outside meal in an instant.
Picnic Beverage Stake
This is the perfect accessory for those sunset picnics, while watching the tide come in.
Picnic Flatware Set, Blue Stripe
Stripey and adorable is what you get when you tuck these cool blue-dipped flatware sets into your picnic basket. And after the picnic's over, bring them inside for some fun mixing and matching with your everyday dishes.
Galvanized Party Tub
Galvanized tubs are so versatile. The size makes it perfect for things like hauling drinks and food, kid toys, party gifts, and it would be a terrific picnic basket if you were serving a larger group.
Solarlink Radio
OK, let me tell you why this is a must in my world. During the summer, it seems like every time I want to plan an evening picnic, there's a baseball game on. Tuck this into your picnic basket, bring along his favorite meatball sandwich and you've got an easy date-night pleaser!
Acrylic Margarita Glass
I'm not sure this needs an explanation. It's bound to be a fun picnic if you bring these along.
Double Take Wine Tote
The supple leather of this wine tote begs to be touched. Bring this along to make sure nothing gets spilled or broken amidst the packing of a picnic basket.
Jelly Jar Lanterns
Fluted glass jelly jars and copper finished wire hangers — what's not to love? I can visualize a sprawling tree with a half-dozen of these jars hanging, for a small picnic gathering at dusk. Add some gourmet cheese, fruit and ice cold drinks, and it's an instant party.
Waterproof Picnic Blanket by PoBa
Tuck this pretty waterproof blanket into your picnic basket. The yellow chevron fabric is so cheerful.
Lunch/Picnic Tote in Mustard Waxed Canvas by Red Staggerwing
With it's waxed canvas exterior, leather handles, and laminated cotton lining, this stylish tote would be perfect for a stroll through the park, ending in a light picnic.
Cloverware Utensil Set And Lunchskins
This set of ecofriendly pouches and utensils is not only great for the environment, but it also keeps things tidy in your picnic basket.
Working Glass with Lid
I'm not sure who came up with the idea of lidded drinking glasses, but they are perfect for some iced tea at my next outdoor gathering. Lids keep the bees away and spills at bay.
John Lewis Acrylic Storage Canisters, Clear
Here's an ecofriendly, reuseable storage idea for your next picnic. These clear canisters are actually made of nonbreakable acrylic and perfect for that watermelon salad, pickles, or other juicy side dishes.
Veneerware Party Kit
These kits of organically-grown bamboo dinnerware will serve picnicking groups of 16 or 50 and come stocked with just about everything you'll need. The best part is everything is compostable, making for quick and easy cleanup!
Next: Great Grill Setups Take the Party Outside
Next: Great Grill Setups Take the Party Outside