We’re so excited to welcome Lauren, of Going for Grace, to the resort 365 blog today to share her best tips for the perfect beach picnic! Lauren is the ultimate hostess and expert on all things entertaining. She recently vacationed in Charleston and captured a romantic beach picnic she had with her husband. Read below for the full scoop…
Salty air, warm sand, and a sunset – Can you think of anything more special than an evening picnic on the beach? Hi friends, Lauren Cermak here from the Going For Grace! I am so thrilled to share five tips with you today for the perfect couples beach picnic. There is nothing I love more than filling our days with memorable moments, especially when they involve a little Lilly!
1. Choose The Time Wisely
When it comes to an evening picnic on the beach, timing is of top priority. If you go too early, you will need to think about shade as it will still be very hot and if you go too late you may be pressed for daylight. It is important to do a quick weather and sunset check before heading out on your way. A good rule of thumb is to plan your arrival an hour before golden hour. During the summer, golden hour is a little after 7:30pm (this varies between states). By arriving at 6:30pm you will avoid the hottest part of the day and have plenty of time to eat before enjoying the sunset. You will want golden hour to be the highlight of your picnic as it is the most romantic lighting and a prime time to take any photos before the sun goes down!
The Details
2. Work With What You Have
Unfortunately, not all of us live right next to the beach. Though I dare say at some point or another we all wish we did! If you do, then take every advantage of it and pack your picnic basket to the brim! But if, like us, you are traveling and don’t have access to a full kitchen, simply work with what you have. If staying in a hotel or B&B, check with a staff member and see if they can put together a picnic basket for you to take. For example, while in Charleston we stayed at The Restoration Hotel and they were able to put together a charcuterie and cheese plate for us to enjoy an evening picnic on the beach. If your hotel isn’t able to provide this for you, stop by a grocery store and pick up a cheese or vegetable platter along with an easy fruit such as grapes. These items will be easy to transport and even easier to clean up.
3. Pick Easy Foods
When it comes to a picnic on the beach, there are several factors that should not be ignored – sand and travel. Sand is inevitable and will probably get everywhere, regardless of how careful you try to be. When choosing the foods for your picnic, think of types of food that will only require a plate and napkin such as veggies, crackers, baguettes, cheese, grapes, berries, or even some finger sandwiches. These items will be easy to tote down the beach, eat, and clean up. Trust me, you want to be able to take in the moment without worrying about how you are going to get all of this cleaned up before dark!
4. Think of the Details
There are a few items to be certain that you have with you when setting out on a beach picnic – a blanket or large beach towels, a basket or tote bag, plates, napkins, and plenty to drink. Having something to place the food on is a necessity. Not only does it keep the sand off of the food, but it also gives you a place to relax and enjoy without worrying about sand getting all over you. A basket and tote are helpful in transporting your picnic and help to keep everything together both while arriving and cleaning up. When it comes to choosing plates, keep them small and light. These melamine plates were perfect!
5. Plan a Fun Activity
For most of us, beach picnics don’t happen everyday, so think of something that will make it that much more memorable! Whether it be your favorite board game, a bike ride down the beach, or even an impromptu photo session. Find an activity that fits your personalities and have fun with it!
Photography by Hilleary Photography, @hillearyphotography
