Location: Whether it’s an urban park or secluded forest, finding a spot that’s both convenient and aesthetically pleasing is paramount.
Menu: Stick with chilled foods that don’t need significant preparation. Portable and pretty cupcakes are a shoo-in, but Caruso also recommends blackberry lemonade and tuna salad sandwiches made with watercress, lemon and habanero peppers.
Decor: Function is foremost, but style needn’t be neglected. Lounge like a Roman on a tartan blanket or outdoor rug with a mix of colorful outdoor pillows. Add fresh flowers in Mason jars for a pleasing scent with that vintage feel.
Ambiance: Set the mood with a folksy playlist and battery-powered speakers. And, of course, don’t forget a camera to capture the fun.
Wool rug in teal and cream by Trina Turk, $185 at The Lemon Tree. Table in teal by FermobUSA, $545 at Garden Room. Chairs in teal by FermobUSA, $450 each at Garden Room. Pillows in multiple colors, $75 each at The Workroom. Nickel-plated tray, $72 at The Home Market. Colette tumblers in green by Juliska, $24 each at The Home Market. Maru paper lanterns in white, $4.99 each at World Market. Beaded erasable message tile by Placetile Designs, $30 at Argosy Limited. Surrey Picnic for Two in brown by Picnic at Ascot, $125 at Argosy Limited. Ivory cotton blanket, $108 at The Home Market. Bird cage in vivid green by Imax, $125 (set of three) at Laacke & Joys. Cupcakes by Milwaukee Cupcake Company.
