If you know me, you know I dream of summer all year long so I can plan the perfect picnic on a hot summer's day. Fresh floral blooms, matching blankets and napkins, the perfect woven basket, a tasteful assortment of cheeses paired with just the right breads and crackers are just a few items on my list to make a warm sunny day feel like a dream.
Picnics are the ultimate way to not just spend a lazy July day, but to celebrate those you love and all the milestones life brings our way from birthdays to graduations to anniversaries. And Shhh! It’s a great way to celebrate on a budget.
After planning and successfully, if I do say so myself, executing a number of picnics to celebrate, lounge and just soak up the sun, here are my favourite tips, tricks and ideas to help you navigate picnic season like a pro!
Choose Your Spot
First things first, you need to find a great picnic spot. The location you choose can make or break your picnic!
Here’s a few key tips to keep in mind:
- Try to keep the picnic spot close to your car unless you’re looking to get in some extra cardio. You’ll likely be carrying a lot and no one wants to make that extra trip back to the car.
- Make sure you choose a spot with cell phone reception so you can share your exact location with your friends. No one wants to walk around in search of where you are!
- Not everyone loves the sun! Try to find a spot where there’s a mix of sun and shade for those of us who like sitting under the trees.
- Parking can be expensive and difficult to find! When choosing a spot remember to factor in proximity from the nearest available parking lots, especially if you’re in the city.
Here are a few of my favourite sports to picnic across Toronto.
- High ParkToronto Island
- Trinity Bellwoods Park
- University of Toronto St. George Campus
- Bluffers Park
- Humber Bay Park
- Edwards Gardens
A picnic isn't a picnic without a basket full of tasty treats. I personally love a charcuterie board, not only does it make your picnic blanket 100x more beautiful, it’s so easy to eat with something for everyone!
But if you’re looking to add a whole spread, here’s some easy to eat picnic favourites that you don’t see everyday:
- Shawarma wraps
- Tacos
- Samosas
- Dumplings
- Poutine
Then of course we have our conventional favourites: Sandwiches, fresh fruits, salads, pizzas, chips which are all great choices and lastly the most important things to do outdoors in the heat: SANITIZE, HYDRATE, REPEAT! Oh and lots of UV protection!
Don’t Forget Dessert
I’m convinced anyone who doesn’t have a sweet tooth is an alien! Don’t forget to grab a mini cake to dress up your picnic blanket. It’s also the perfect way to celebrate that big achievement or just a lazy Sunday afternoon because lifes too short to not eat cake!
We’ve introduced the perfect picnic addition to our menu. Our line of our Bakers Choice Cakes at $100 each! These cakes are adorned with seasonal goodness from fresh blooms to fruits to make any picnic look like it’s straight out of a movie!
Who doesn’t love a fun theme
If there’s a theme involved, I’m in! Choose a fun theme not just for your spread, but also to get those invited to dress up. Participating in a theme always increases the excitement. My favourite has to be a crazy hat picnic but you can choose anything from a colour, flower, movie to your favourite TV Show! Always remember themes are to make an event more fun so it’s really okay if someone doesn't partake.
Plan Some Activities
Bring along a ball or a frisbee to throw around or if you like to enjoy a more mellow time out, grab some paints, board games, cards or a book! It’s always nice to have a fun activity to stay entertained. Especially if your littles are with you! Don’t forget the colouring pages!
Comfort is Key
Grab your comfiest blanket, some cushions and remember to dress in light airy clothes. Linen dresses paired with chic sandals is always my outfit of choice, ooh and my favourite sunhat!
Following a few tips and tricks, you’ll have mastered the art of putting together a gorgeous spread by the end of summer. You’re all set to enjoy the sunshine and picnic your heart out!