party inspiration: picnic in the park

Enjoy some splendor in the grass and host a birthday party picnic! You can make it as rustic or sophisticated as you like...

For an adults only soiree, lay blankets & throw pillows on the grass, and provide a picnic basket filled with treats as the centerpiece for each blanket. Include a variety of finger sandwiches, cheese & crackers, wine, sparkling water and perhaps a fruit tart for dessert. Make sure to include the appropriate utensils, plates and glassware too.

For a more rustic all-ages approach, set up a communal area with supplies like a basket of gingham tablecloths for people to sit on, ice buckets filled with sodas and beer, and provide sack lunches that include a sandwich, chips, fruit and a homemade cookie.

After lunch, start up a little friendly competition with a game of softball, lawn bowling or horseshoes and hand out small prizes to the winners.

Resources: Metal tubs and wood crates from Pottery Barn; Open gable top boxes via Elisabeth Anne Designs; White blankets in the grass via Jordan Ferney; Boxed lunch via Lucky Me! ; Black & White check Invite from Tiny Prints; Sack lunches, blankets and wood silverware via The Brides Cafe.