My book club friends and I happen to love park picnics on the weekend in Brooklyn. I’d say we’ve gained some skills when it comes to planning our get-togethers. Just like responsible girl, Abbi Abrams in Broad City, you have to save up those Bed Bath and Beyond 20% off coupons because they never expire. Hit the store to grab all your must have picnic items. Once you’ve got the basics down, its the bonus items that can really make it a perfect day.
THE BASICS
Indoor/Outdoor Reversible Blanket
To start, you need a base. Sure, you can just sit on the grass. You can just bring your beach towel or the tapestry from your college days. However, these outdoor blankets are the way of the future. I’ve found that it’s the perfect size for a few people to have a picnic. The fabric materials are key. Boasted for being easy-to-clean, the material gives you a more sturdy surface for your picnic than your average blanket. Pick one of these baby’s up at BBB.
Super Chill Insulated Cooler Bag
We all love the charming wicker picnic basket but I think it’s time for an upgrade. If you’re planning on spending a few hours at the park, it’s best to bring something insulated. Keep your drinks and food chilled to the perfect temperature.
Seems like a no-brainer, right? Well, for some reason, everyone seems to forget cups. Some people have their Camelbak water bottles but there will be no way to share drinks all around. This is also a good time to remind you to stick to finger foods. If you don’t, I suggest you bring napkins, utensils, and plates. You can grab these stylish sustainable cups at Whole Foods. While you’re there, pick up some guac. Whole Foods has the best guacamole!
Turn your afternoon into a sexy Robin Thicke video with a small portable speaker. There are a variety of small, portable, wireless speakers available for any budget. Just make sure you and/or your friends have Spotify Premium. That way you can listen to any summer playlist offline. You never know what kind of cell service you’ll get in the park.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunblock
You mother always told you, don’t forget sunblock. And of course, she was right. I understand, it was a long long cold and bitter winter. Now all I want is to soak up as much Vitamin D as the next person. However, sunscreen is proven to protect against skin cancer. Future you will thank you.
BONUS ITEMS:
Rosé
Nothing says summer like a bottle of Rosé. Bringing along a little wine to share will surely make an impression on the nearby park go-ers. Try this rose spritzer recipe from Whole Foods for a refreshing sparkling summer cocktail.
I believe flower crowns fall under the category of festival fashion. This style gives you a chance to take on a number of trends you wouldn’t normally. You can find this flower crown and many others at Forever21. It might be more fun to make a DIY flower crown with your friends. Head to Michael’s for some craft supplies.
Rad + Refined What’s Cookin’ Shades
Sunglasses are a must. But here’s a pair of sunglasses you never realized you needed. You’ll look sweet in these orange mirrored lenses. According to Popsugar, mirrored, embellished, and round are the latest sunglass trends.
The Perfect Summer Dress + Jockey Skimmies
The greatest summer style secret: the only way to feel completely comfortable in your perfect summer dress is with a short underneath. You can lounge in any position you please with zero worries.
About Elizabeth
Elizabeth grew up in Palisades, NY, just 16 miles from the George Washington Bridge. She’s lived in Brooklyn for the past three years but continues to wonder if she’s allowed to call herself a “New Yorker/” She holds an M.F.A. in Design and Technology from Parsons The New School for Design. Elizabeth enjoys project runway, puppies of Instagram, and Venmo descriptions. Tweet to her at @eumbrino.
