Today I’m joining with a few friends to bring you some summer ideas, sponsored by Amara. Be sure to visit the other posts linked at the bottom of this post.
You probably didn’t know this but I live near a beach. It’s about a 10-15 min drive but it’s still pretty close.
When you think of Vancouver, you probably don’t think ‘beaches’ you probably think ‘rain forest’. We do have some beautiful beaches but our water is pretty cold.
I’ve been wanting to spend more time at the local beaches near my home this summer and I instantly thought picnic.
Most beaches also have a grassy area near them which is perfect to move to if it gets too hot.
There are a few key elements you need for the perfect beach picnic that I’ll share with you today and I have a printable you can download that includes the complete list.
First and foremost, you need a picnic basket. I had one years ago but it was green and navy and smelled kinda musty. I knew I wanted to replace it.
This light wicker picnic basket with polka dot interior fabric made in France is definitely an upgrade!
There’s no better way to force yourself to relax and slow down on a weekend then packing up a picnic basket and heading to a park or beach.
Take stock of what your picnic basket includes and grab any other essential items. The one thing I have added to stay in here is a knife to cut bread with.
I make sure to grab a bottle of wine like this beautiful bottle of rose that is already chilled.
Just make sure to check your city’s bylaws on what you can bring to the beach. Usually wine is fine. Sparkling cider is a nice alternative.
Plates, wine opener and wine glasses are usually included in most picnic baskets.
This picnic basket comes with a little cooler bag so I popped in a little freezer pack and some grapes and strawberries.
Fruit, cheeses and some deli meats are the perfect picnic food.
Think ‘France’ when you think picnics – wine, baguette, fruit, cheeses, meats. Food that is easy to transport and filling enough to eat for lunch.
I brought two demi baguettes (small baguettes) so they could fit in the picnic basket along with a couple of soft cheeses.
This picnic basket comes with a cutting board, flatware and napkins so be sure to check on those items as well.
The basket itself serves as a handy place to set your glasses on.
Be sure to bring a blanket, a book and possibly a pillow. It’s time to relax.
You might want to bring a beach chair if you have a hard time sitting on a blanket but logs on the beach provide a natural chair too.
This basket has a large carrying strap which makes it easy to carry everything in and out.
Now it’s time to enjoy the view and relax.
Why not spend the day at one of your nearby parks or beaches and bring a beautiful curated picnic basket along with you.
I can’t wait to do more of this this summer.
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Be sure to visit these other wonderful summer posts below:
I didn’t realize about your beaches, but am curious to see more as you share this summer. Love the basket Jamie!
Hugs,
Janet
Thanks Janet! Yes, I rarely take photos of our beaches but maybe I’ll take more photos of beach picnics 😉
Hugs, Jamie
Summertime is all about picnics. Love the basket and so special you live where you can enjoy the beach. My husband and I lived on the coast of Virginia for many years, we would enjoy a picnic on the beach in the evenings.
Happy Memorial Weekend to you and yours,
Sanra
Thanks Sandra. An evening picnic sounds lovely! I’m doing that this summer. We just celebrated our Victoria day long weekend here in Canada but Happy Memorial Weekend to you!
Hugs, Jamie
Jamie, what a lovely picnic you’ve set! I’ve actually always wanted a picnic basket and yours is wonderful. I just might have to indulge… 🙂
That basket is amazing Jamie! Oh my I can see why you chose it!
You must, Lory. I’m in love. Thank you xo
Jamie, the picnic basket is beautiful, I love it’s shape! We used to have picnics on the beach all the time, and haven’t in a long while. This makes me want to plan one soon!
I love the shape of it too. It’s not your typical boxy shape. I love the polka dots inside too and leather. So stylish! Hope you find yourself picnicking this summer!
Hugs, Jamie
Such a great post! I feel like no one uses picnic baskets anymore, but there is nothing better than packing a picnic lunch, wine, and chilling by the beach on a summer day! Love the picnic basket….soooo cute!
I know! I have friends that have picnic baskets and have never been used, ever. There really is nothing better. Thanks Holly!
Hugs, Jamie
Thanks for the tips, I can’t wait to go on lots and lots of picnics during this summer too.They’re just so nice and relaxing!
They are the best! I hope you have a wonderful time this summer picnicking!
Hugs, Jamie
Though I love the basket and all it contains for a great picnic – it was listed at $305! That’s a whole lot more than the cost of what you put in it!
It is definitely a splurge, Margaret! You can go on a picnic with anything, really.
Hugs, Jamie
Living in the desert, I’ll take any beach whether you can swim in the water or not! When we do picnic, I always go for baguettes with brie. It’s such a treat! Visiting from Inspire Me Monday party.
Yes, baguette and brie is perfection for a picnic! Any park would make a lovely picnic but I know what you mean 😉
Hugs, Jamie