The Picnic Blanket

BIRTHDAY PICNIC

Gather things together in a basket, including a fancy cake stand and champagne coupes. Then head to the park or patio.

Make transporting everything easier by asking each guest to contribute—have someone bring the cake and candles, someone else can take care of the champagne and glasses, and so on.

FESTIVE TOUCHES

PICNIC BASKET

Fill it with china and glasses instead of paper picnicware. Wrap fabric napkins around the champagne coupes to pad them while carrying them to the park.

THE CHAMPAGNE COUPE HAS A VINTAGE VIBE. IT WAS INTRODUCED IN FRANCE DURING THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY AND BECAME FASHIONABLE IN THE UNITED STATES IN THE 1930S.

LINENS & BLANKETS

Use real tablecloths and napkins—just layer them over a heavier picnic blanket to avoid grass stains.

CAKE STAND

Top with a cake—or put candles on stacks of cupcakes, muffins, or sandwiches to make them feel festive.

BACKYARD BBQ

A summer cookout should feel relaxed—keep the menu simple and serve food family-style so guests can help themselves.

A good playlist keeps the momentum going throughout the meal without distracting from conversation–nothing too loud or too slow. Think about how long the party will last and make sure there are enough songs to fill the time.

COOKOUT BASICS

PLATES

Repurpose extra dinner plates as trays for toppings and sides. Use smaller sizes for spoon rests.

JAM JARS FOR CONDIMENTS

Fill covered containers to transport ketchup, mustard, and relishes in just the right portions.

WOODEN TRAYS FOR BREAD

Something long and narrow is great for laying out hamburger buns.

BBQ TOOLS

Use the same utensils to cook and to serve: tongs, spatulas, and spoons.