Coco & Wolf Founder & Director Amy Hemmings-Batt shares her expert tips for creating a memorable and aesthetically pleasing picnic this summer
IMAGE: PICNIC BLANKET, NAPKINS AND PICNIC BASKET, ALL COCO & WOLF
There’s something about a picnic blanket laid out on a summer’s day which can elevate even the humblest sandwich to a delightful culinary experience. The combination of sunshine, nature and novelty means even the simplest picnic will put a smile on your face.
With the warm weather set to last until well into September, there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy this most British tradition this summer. Here, Amy Hemmings-Batt, Founder and Director of homeware brand Coco & Wolf – beloved for their whimsical use of Liberty fabrics, shares her tried and tested tips for creating the perfect picnic.
IMAGES: PICNIC BLANKET AND PICNIC BASKET, FROM A SELECTION, COCO & WOLF
You don’t need to travel far…
Whilst we absolutely love seeking out a beautiful spot, we also believe creating the perfect picnic a little closer to home has its advantages. Using your own garden means squishy pillows can be easily transported for the ultimate in outdoor feasting comfort, and your elderflower fizz is still cold from the fridge. There’s no long journey home to contend with either so you can linger outdoors for a little longer.
Pack for comfort (and style)
Picnics should be long and leisurely so ensuring they are as comfortable as possible is key. We like to pile up our blankets with squishy cushions to slump on and throws for when the sun starts to dip. For special occasions, don’t forget to hang some reusable cotton bunting.
Leave the Tupperware and clingfilm at home…
Classic picnic food tastes better when it hasn’t been sweating in clingfilm, it’s a fact. If our spread is homemade we like to wrap our sandwiches in beeswax wraps, homemade quiches in parchment paper and Victoria sponge is served out of a hand-me-down cake tin. To drink, you can’t beat a delicious summer berry cordial, and because my Granny always did things the right way, don’t forget a wide-necked Thermos filled with ice.
Always bring an extra basket
Make things easier to carry by doubling up on baskets so that you have plenty of space for all the food in one picnic basket and another for everything else, such as crockery, cutlery and glasses and napkins.
No one wants a soggy bottom…
Ensure that your blanket has a water resistant underside so that it is protected and you don’t get a soggy bottom. The Coco & Wolf picnic blankets have a quality water resistant oil skin on the reverse side and have also added a soft natural padded lining for extra comfort.
IMAGES: BOTH UNSPLASH
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