10 Rules for the Perfect Picnic (That We Always Break)
Welcome to The Gingham Rulebook, your guide to transforming picnics from squashed sandwiches into genuinely delightful alfresco occasions. But let’s get one thing straight—rules are made to be broken (especially the fun ones). At The Piknic Club, we believe picnics are about quality over quantity, heirloom baskets over plastic boxes, thermos flasks over Tupperware, and belly laughs over picture-perfect scenes.
So, while we’ve created this of “rules” to live by, know that we rarely stick to them. After all, the best picnics happen when you toss the rulebook aside and simply enjoy the moment.
Rule #1: Always Use a Gingham Blanket
Reality: Of course, we adore a classic gingham blanket — it’s iconic and wonderfully nostalgic — but who’s that organised all the time? Sometimes the perfect picnic spot demands nothing more than a soft beach towel or a nice patch of dry grass (Just make sure it’s dry —no one enjoys soggy bottoms).
Rule #2: Sandwiches Must Be Triangle-Cut
Reality: Let’s be honest, we won’t judge your sandwich shapes. Triangles, rectangles, crustless—heck, skip sandwiches entirely! We’d rather tuck into a freshly baked tart or crusty baguette. Those limp, sad sandwiches can stay safely in our childhood memories.
Rule #3: Champagne Is a Picnic Essential
Reality: Look, we won’t pretend that bubbles aren’t a firm favourite around here (they absolutely are), but a thermos of hot chocolate on a chilly day or homemade lemonade in the sunshine can hit the spot just as beautifully. Because really, it’s not about what you’re drinking — it’s who you’re clinking with.
Rule #4: Picnics Are Only for Summer
Reality: Oh, come on, every season has its picnic charm! Winter picnics wrapped in woolly blankets, sipping mulled wine? Yes, please. Spring picnics amongst fresh blooms and sunshine? Sign us up. Picnics aren’t just for sun-soaked days; they’re for people who know how to find joy in every season.
Rule #5: Always Bake Something from Scratch
Reality: While homemade treats hold a special place in our hearts, there’s no shame in a spontaneous dash to your favourite local bakery. A picnic’s magic doesn’t lie in perfection—it lies in savouring life’s simplest pleasures, with zero guilt attached.
Rule #6: Picnics Must Be Perfectly Styled for Instagram
Reality: Sure, a pretty setup brings us joy, but let’s face it—life is messy, spontaneous, and wonderfully imperfect. Spilled rosé, napkins blowing away in the breeze, windswept hair sticking to your lip balm? That’s part of the charm. The best moments aren’t the ones we spend curating for a camera roll; they’re the ones when we’re too busy laughing to care.
Rule #7: You Must Pack Fancy Food
Reality: Fancy is fun, but truthfully, a fresh baguette, good cheese, ripe strawberries, and something sweet can be just as memorable. The real secret to a great picnic is to keep it simple, seasonal, and shareable. Remember: less is most definitely more.
Rule #8: A Picnic Playlist Is Essential
Reality: Alright, we do love a good playlist—we’ve even made some specially for you—but nature has its own glorious soundtrack. Birds chirping, leaves rustling, laughter in the background—who needs a Bluetooth speaker anyway?
Rule #9: You Need Perfect Weather
Reality: Perfect weather? Doesn’t exist. Embrace the unexpected! Pack extra blankets, throw in an umbrella, and remember: a bit of drizzle never hurt anyone. In fact, it just makes for better stories. Go on—jump in the puddles, dance in the rain (like no one’s watching, obviously).
Rule #10: Picnics Are Just About Food
Reality: Picnics are about so much more than food. They’re about connection. They’re a gentle reminder to slow down, savour the moment, and simply enjoy the company. Whether it’s a romantic date, a lazy afternoon with friends, or a quiet moment just for you — the food’s the cherry on top.
Ultimately, picnics (and life!) are about breaking the rules and creating your own traditions. Whether you’re sipping champagne on gingham or munching takeaway on a park bench, joy and connection are what truly matter. So, go ahead—break the rules. We’ll be right here, cheering you on.
Welcome to The Piknic Club. Rules? Optional. Joy? Mandatory.