Summer is the season for alfresco dining, so it’s the perfect time to plan a picnic! A picnic is an opportunity to savor good food, soak up some sunshine, and create memories with your favorite people. Whether you plan a casual outing with friends or a more upscale affair, this guide will help you create the ideal Summer picnic experience. We’ll cover everything from food choices to cute jeans and tops to wear for the occasion. So, grab your picnic basket and get ready to dine under the sky.

Step 1: Choose Your Perfect Picnic Spot

The location sets the tone for your entire experience. Here are some popular locations to consider:

• Local park: Ideal for a casual, laid-back atmosphere
• Beach: Perfect for a breezy, sun-soaked day
• Winery: Great for a more upscale, adult-oriented picnic
• Your backyard: Convenient and cozy for an intimate gathering or family-friendly event

Other considerations: 

• You’ll also want to think about your guests. Will they have to travel far? What kind of parking accommodations does the location have? 

• If swimming is on the agenda, be sure to account for where everyone can comfortably change into swimsuits. Consider access to restrooms or nearby changing facilities, or bring portable changing tents for convenience. 

• Check if reservations or permits are required for picnicking at a park, beach, or winery. 

Step 2: Plan Your Menu

No matter how beautiful your location, a mouthwatering menu is a must. These delicious ideas are easy to prepare and pack:

Casual Picnic:

• Gourmet sandwiches or wraps
• Fresh fruit salad
• Potato salad and coleslaw
• Cheese and crackers platter
• Refreshing lemonade or iced tea

Upscale Picnic Menu:

• Charcuterie board with artisanal cheeses and meats
• Caprese skewers with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella
• Mini quiches or savory tarts
• Chocolate-covered strawberries
• Sparkling rosé or fruit-infused water

Pack your food in reusable containers to keep everything fresh and reduce waste. And be sure to find out if your guests have any dietary restrictions so you can plan your menu accordingly.

Step 3: Don’t Forget the Essentials

Make sure to bring these picnic essentials:

• Picnic blanket or outdoor mat
• Plates, utensils, and cups
• Napkins and wet wipes
• Cooler and ice filled with bottled water, beer, wine, or other beverages
• Bottle opener and corkscrew
• Trash bag for easy cleanup
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Towels
• Hand sanitizer
• Umbrella or sun shade
• Extra chairs and cushions
• Plenty of extra water for drinking and cleaning
• If barbecuing, bring a portable grill, charcoal, and any tools 

Step 4: Dress to Impress (and for Comfort!)

Now, let’s talk about the fun part – your picnic outfit! The key is to balance style and comfort while considering your event location and vibe.

For a Casual Park or Backyard Picnic: On a hot Summer day, shorts will keep you cool and comfortable while serving food and drinks and mixing and mingling with friends. Some of this season’s cute shorts for women include high-waisted denim shorts or flowy printed shorts. Pair them with a breezy, sleeveless blouse in a floral print or an off-the-shoulder top in a solid color. Complete the look with comfortable sandals or sneakers.

For a Beach Picnic: Beach picnics call for light, breathable fabrics and colorful clothes. Try a flowy maxi skirt or a matching two-piece set with a crop top and wide-leg pants. If you’ll be heading in the water, make sure to pack your swimsuit and tell your guests to do so as well. Don’t forget to bring a wide-brimmed hat and oversized sunglasses for sun protection. As for footwear, slip-on sandals or espadrilles are perfect for navigating the sand.

For an Upscale Winery Picnic: Elevate your picnic style with a chic, polished look. Start with cute jeans – white denim is perfect for Summer. Wear the jeans with a silky camisole or a structured, sleeveless blouse. Layer on a lightweight denim jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings. Finish the outfit with wedge sandals for picnic-appropriate elegance.

Step 5: Set the Mood with Music and Games

Enhance your picnic experience with these fun additions:

• Create a Summer music playlist and bring portable speakers 
• Pack some games like frisbee, cornhole, volleyball net and ball, or cards
• Plan fun activities like a scavenger hunt or a hula hoop contest

Step 6: Capture the Memories

Your picnic outfit is on point, the food is yummy, and the company is delightful – make sure to capture these precious moments! Bring an instant camera for fun, retro-style photos, or use your smartphone to snap pics of your spread and your fabulous outfit. Share the images with friends or create a scrapbook and send copies to all the guests.

Step 7: Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Even with perfect planning, surprises can happen. Be prepared with these few extra items: 

• A light jacket or cardigan 
• A portable phone charger
• A small first-aid kit
• Extra blankets 
• Flashlight

Create Picnic-Perfect Memories

Remember, the best picnics are those spent in good company, so don’t stress too much about every little detail. Enjoy Summer’s laid-back spirit and let your personal style shine through your food and, of course, your clothes. After all, those trendy and cute women’s tops you’ve been eyeing are just waiting for their debut. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your friends and family, grab your picnic basket, and head out for a delightful Summer adventure.