It’s more about the feeling.

Fall marks the start of the holiday season and is often associated with fun festivities and cozy gatherings. In the age of coronavirus, outdoor picnics are the safer way to gather with friends. But I get it, setting up picnics can be a drag – you need the right kind of food to pack, a comfortable place, and time to setup/cleanup.

The French are really good at picnics. There’s actually a lifestyle around the picnic, which is both casual and luxuriously slow. It’s more about the feeling than the food. Yes, there’s eating and there’s lounging. Maybe some wine too. But the main ingredient in a perfect picnic is good company.

Need creative inspiration on how you can picnic in style and create a beautiful experience for friends and loved ones? Follow along for my Fall Picnic guide! Tip: It’s a collaborative effort so make sure to delegate and split up the work!

The Best Way to Picnic this Fall

THE FOOD
A picnic consists of a mix of ready-to-eat offerings — cheeses, charcuterie, loaf of bread, seasonal fruit — and homemade contributions. A caprese salad, perhaps, or a quiche. Dessert is always welcome too. If you’re sharing a cheese plate, bring toothpicks.

Tip: You want foods that get better as they sit. Choose hard cheese over softer ones, salami over turkey. Romaine over arugula.
THE DRINKS
Wine is always a classic favorite! Make sure someone is in charge of ice and bringing a cooler so you can enjoy chilled beverages!
Tip: Canned wines are also easy to chill and serve (Trader Joe’s has them too)! Other fun options: premixed cocktails and fruit infused water.
THE GEAR
When picnicking you must embrace discomfort. Depending on what you have available, you can elevate your picnic experience with a few of these items:

1. Blankets
2. (Optional) Makeshift table. Tip: use wine crates, wood pallets, or Japanese-style straw cushions.
3. Linen napkins
4. Table settings (straw placemats, ceramic plates, glasses, etc.)
5. Garland + fall decor! Eucalyptus, dried florals, mini pumpkins, etc.
6. Pillows

Tip: Bring a wagon to help carry all your gear!
THE LOCATION
Picnics are intimate gatherings so pick a place that’s not packed with crowds or hard to get to (especially if you’re bringing extra gear). Ideas: Someone’s backyard, a favorite park, waterfront, a rooftop, beach, or a winery (some allow you to bring your own food).