I have always been a design geek. I can’t remember a time that I wasn’t trying to put my personal stamp on my living spaces, DIY’ing something I couldn’t find or couldn’t afford to buy, and last year where we renovated a distressed property into an Airbnb. A Life Unfolding is where I share design, decor, DIY’s, and all things home.

Hi! I'm Libbie

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It’s picnic time here in Mi, and just like everything summer-related, I am here for it! Today, I am going to share easy ways to elevate your picnic.

Easy ways to elevate your picnic featuring a vintage crate and pretty tablescape. — Elevating your everyday picnic.

You are in luck today as I am joining several friends who are sharing all kinds of outdoor dining tips and inspiration. If you are visiting from Kristin’s at Red Arrows Home, a big warm welcome! So let’s get started.

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Easy ways to elevate your picnic

I start with a pretty blanket (or, in the case above, a throw) and some linen napkins. These don’t have to be fancy… simple white works well.

Real napkins tied with lavender. — Real napkins add an elevated touch.

Keep the food easy.

Your food can be easy and still be special. I like grabbing sandwiches from our favorite deli, which is quick and easy and cuts down on prep time. If I am not using real plates, these bamboo plates look pretty and are eco-friendly (and I love a square plate)!

Vintage suitcase elevates an everyday picnic with sandwiches.

If sandwiches aren’t your thing, try a simple charcuterie board. A picnic is a perfect place to serve one! Easy and elevated. Win-Win.

charcuterie board for picnic — Cheese crackers and some meats make for a snackable picnic.

Serve a special cocktail.

I love to serve drinks that can be prepared ahead of time for your picnic (remember, EASY is what we are going for). This White Wine Sangria (below) works well as can be made ahead of time.

Sangria in pitcher and glasses on picnic blanket.

If you are looking for something festive but non-acholic Sparkling Raspberry Lemonade is festive and easy.

Comfortable Seating

I don’t know about you, but I am past the age where sitting on a beach blanket cuts it. I always toss a few cushions into my tote to enjoy my meal comfortably.

Elevated Picnic in the grass with vintage table — Cushions are easy to tote to a picnic

Floor pillows- are another cozy option.

Floor cushions on picnic blanket for easy seating.

Add some flowers. Flowers will add an elevated touch to your everyday picnic, whether a summer bouquet from the farmers’ market or a mixed bunch from the grocery store.

Music

Music sets the mood! Bring a portable speaker to play your favorite tunes. We use this one and LOVE it.

Themed Picnics

Themed picnics can be fun! I planned a themed picnic when planning a surprise trip to Hawaii. It was a nice way to surprise my husband with the tickets. I can think of several themes I want to try. A Fiesta picnic with tacos? A Tailgate picnic?

Themed Luau picnic with a festive tablescape — Elevating the everyday picnic

Presentation

S’mores are my go-to picnic dessert, and bringing a bowl or plate to arrange them on instantly elevates them (although S’mores are SO yummy, no one else will care)!

Those are my tips on elevating your picnic! Now let’s peek at what Renae from Peacock Ridge Farm is sharing today. And don’t forget to check out the rest of the outdoor dining inspiration.