A Full Guide for Hosting a “Brunch” Picnic this Summer

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As COVID-19 continues to spread, it has also changed the way we socialize: going to dinner, going to the gym, and most importantly: Sunday brunch. Y’all know girls love brunch: bottomless mimosas, getting lit in the middle of the day and still making it home on time to rest and be up for your 9 to 5 Monday morning. IT’S PERFECT! As a result, people on social media have declared that picnics are the new brunch. I personally love planning events, dates, and practically live on Pinterest, but I understand planning might not be everyone’s cup of tea. On this post, I’m giving you a full guide for hosting a brunch style picnic of your own. 

Three years ago, my boyfriend and I celebrated our third anniversary by having a picnic at the beach. We went to Whole Foods, got some food, picked up corny matching “his and hers” wine glasses and had the cutest intimate date. Your picnic can be as simple as grabbing a few subs at the deli, picking up a bottle of orange juice and champagne or as extravagant as having flowers, centerpieces and charcuterie boards. It’s all up to you and the vibe you’re going for. 

The Setting

The beautiful thing about picnics is that you can have it anywhere. Your local park, the beach, your backyard, a rooftop…etc. All you need is adequate space to lay out a blanket.

I understand everybody doesn’t fool with nature like that. You can lay your picnic blanket on a folding table and bring along some folding chairs. 

Best Time of Day

We have to be realistic here. These picnics look cute for the gram, but if you choose to have a picnic at the wrong time, you’ll have a miserable time. The summer heat is no joke.

If you know anything about photography, you’ve probably heard of the ‘golden hours’ or ‘magic hour’. It’s basically the period of daytime shortly before sunrise and sunset. That rule also applies to having an outdoor picnic. Check your local weather for sunset time and plan to have your picnic about two hours before sunset. You might be able to get away with three hours prior if you find an area with tons of shade and breeze.

Also, too much sun exposure will make it hard to take bomb pictures.

What You’ll Need | The Foundation

The basket, tote or cooler 

As I mentioned above, your materials are heavily dependent on whether you want to have a simple intimate picnic or something more extravagant.

Amazon has a wide range of picnic baskets that include utensils, wine glasses and blankets. Those are typically on the pricier side. If you want to save money, buy a basic straw basket and use utensils and plates you already have at home or purchase some from your local Dollar Tree. 

The Blanket

No need for anything fancy, any old comforter or fitted bed sheet will do. You can even use tablecloths, curtains, tapestry or throw blankets. If you’re feeling fancy, you can purchase a traditional picnic blanket like the one here. 

Utensils

I highly suggest going to Dollar Tree to get glass plates, utensils and champagne glasses. If you want to avoid washing dishes afterward, get cute disposable plates and utensils. 

Extras + things you probably didn’t think you’ll need

• Bottle opener or corkscrew
• Ice & Cooler
• Napkins & paper towels
• Bug spray or mosquito repellent candle 
• Flowers to create your desired aesthetic
• Props such as books, magazines, throw pillows, string lights.
• Speaker & a good playlist

What You’ll Need | The Food

Picnic food is typically light finger food, so your choice might depend on your dietary needs. Here are my recommendations:

Food

• Pastries
• A variety of fruits: different colors for the aesthetic
• Cheese & deli meats
• Pre-made sandwiches
• Dips: spinach, chicken, artichoke..etc
• Pre-made mini waffles
• Any other brunch-style meals you typically enjoy

Drinks

• Rosé
• Sparkling lemonade
• Perrier or a glass bottle filled with water
• Mimosas

I hope this guide helps ease your mind on planning and hosting a picnic this summer. If you’d like to see more visual ideas for a picnic, follow my “Picnic is the New Brunch” board on Pinterest here. 

As always, thank you for reading.