Picnic Fun - Tips and Recipes

Product Spotlight: Coolers on Wheels!

Now that spring has arrived, you’re undoubtedly giving that cooler of yours a workout – as well as your arms.  The typical cooler isn’t exactly designed for the comfort and convenience of the user.  They’re bulky, leaky and hard to carry.  Getting a huge plastic cooler from the trunk of your car to your beach blanket or campsite can be quite an expedition, and often requires more than one person to accomplish.

That’s where coolers on wheels come in.  Just like the suitcases that are designed to be easily wheeled around for easy transport, coolers on wheels have telescopic handles and rugged, durable wheels designed to go all sorts of places, whether you’re taking it on the softball field to dole out beverages to the team or rolling it down the street to the park.  They’re the perfect solution to carrying cold food and beverages for a large group, and they’re designed in a way that keeps everything at just the right temperature for much longer without the hassle and mess of melting ice.

You can get a great variety of coolers on wheels at PicnicFun.com including bright colorful versions, wine trolleys, collapsible ones and even coolers with built-in radios!  Many of the coolers on wheels available come complete with picnic service for four including plates, cloth napkins and flatware. 

Here are some of our favorite coolers on wheels from PicnicFun.com.

Avalanche Cooler on Wheels – The Avalanche is a rugged workhorse that’s perfect for families.  Whether you use it for BBQs at the park or to smoothly transport a large picnic dinner to a special outdoor destination, this cooler will keep everything cold and get it there in style.  It comes in Navy, Pine Green or Sky Blue and has enough room inside for up to 36 beverage cans.  It also includes complete picnic service for 4 including a few cool accessories like a cheese board and bottle stopper.

Cooladio Cooler Cart – What better cooler could you have for warm weather outdoor fun?  This would be fun to whip out at a tailgate party, on the boat or while fishing.  It’s also ideal for stretching out on the sand at the beach, enjoying music while sipping a cool drink and enjoying some snacks.  It’s got a 60 can capacity and the AM/FM radio includes an audio input jack for your iPod, mp3 player or CD player.  You can also use headphones with it if you want to keep your tunes to yourself.

Adventurer Red Cooler on Wheels for 4 – Sophisticated yet rugged, this cooler on wheels is the perfect accompaniment to a scenic drive, a winery tour or that outdoor concert on the green.  Impress your friends when you easily glide this baby behind you and whip out a soft picnic blanket, a bottle of wine and some seriously pretty striped cloth napkins.  The large insulated food and beverage compartment will fit all the goodies you need for your meal, and the front zipper compartment holds deluxe picnic service for 4.   

Product Spotlight: Picnic Lunch for 1!

Why brown bag it when you can carry your lunch in style, and keep it cold all day?  Whether you’re sneaking in a quick bite on the job, using your lunch break at work to take advantage of the lovely spring weather or going on a relaxing outing on your day off, a lunch cooler for one person is a stylish and convenient item to have on hand.  Many individual picnic baskets, packs and coolers come with cutlery, cloth napkins and even mini spill-proof salt and pepper shakers.  Here are some of our favorites from PicnicFun.com.

Metro Uno Picnic Basket for 1 – This cute little mini picnic basket will get you lots of compliments when you bring it out to enjoy your meal.  It comes in a variety of bright, cheerful shades including red, lime green and sky blue as well as black.  The waterproof interior and expandable drawstring top make it easy to fit in everything you need for your lunch, and it also has a front pocket containing stainless steel flatware and a pretty printed fabric napkin.

Uno Equinox Picnic Basket for 1 – Take your lunch box style up a notch with the sophisticated Uno Equinox.  It has the same features and contents as the Metro Uno, but in a unique print in shades of blue, green, peach and beige.  It’s not just a lunch cooler, it’s a stylish accessory!

Chelsea Retro Lunch Cooler – The fresh, soft pink and green shades on this chic lunch cooler make it ideal for the spring and summer months, or to bring a little cheer into your day year-round.  Thermal shield insulation will keep your meal ice cold for hours, and the front compartment and side pockets are perfect for storing utensils and napkins.  Contrasting simulated suede makes the Chelsea look more like a hip purse than a lunch box.  (Logo screen print pictured is not included).

Pranzo Picnic Pack for 1 – The simple yet stylish design of this picnic pack makes it a great choice for men or for women who prefer a sportier look.  Available in black, hunter green, red or royal blue, this convenient lunch bag features separate hot and cold food storage sections, utensils, salt & pepper shakers and a cloth napkin.  It has a comfy padded strap and soft grip handle, and is made of nylon so it’s super easy to clean.

Shop more lunch coolers, picnic baskets, packs & family size coolers at PicnicFun.com!

Spring Preview: Bright and Beautiful Picnic Baskets

We know the first day of spring isn’t until March 20th, but we still can’t help but get excited about the days getting warmer and longer and those first peeks of green poking their way up though the soil.  February’s a great time to start thinking about how you want to spend your spring, and we hope it involves lots of fresh air, exercise and meals in the sunshine!  While we all wait through the rest of winter daydreaming about frolicking on the beach or throwing frisbees at the park, we can browse colorful picnic baskets that serve as a perfect emblem for what is to come.  Here are some of our favorite spring picnic baskets that will inspire you to start your own spring picnic gear wish list.

Dotty Spotty Willow Picnic Basket for 2 – This fresh, modern basket is playful and fun.  Light blue cotton fabric and polka dots in shades of blue, green, purple, red and yellow give the Dotty Spotty a youthful feel that might just put a little skip in your step next season.  The vintage-style hand woven willow basket contains an insulated food container, insulated wine container, wine key, cotton tablecloth, cotton napkins, plates, tumblers and flatware.

Carnival Fern Willow Picnic Basket for 2 – Similar in style and contents to the Dotty Spotty, the Carnival Fern basket features a soothing, natural fern print in shades of blue and green.  Spring green leather straps, silver colored metallic accents and a neutral khaki insulated food compartment make this basket a contemporary classic.

Bakers Cottage Garden Picnic Basket for 4 – Take the family out for a breezy, sun-soaked day at the park or enjoy a bayside brunch with friends with this lovely picnic set.  Woven willow in a classic picnic basket shape complements a fresh-from-the-garden leaf green and ripe raspberry color scheme.  The plates are hand-painted with roses, and the linens are made of hand-stitched striped cotton.  Quality and craftsmanship are evident in every detail of this basket, which comes complete with plates, tumblers, cutlery, napkins, a wine key, cruet set and insulated food cooler.

Catalina Riviera Picnic Basket – A longtime best seller on PicnicFun.com, this picnic basket will make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a romantic classic movie.  The classic oval shape, hardwood lid, bamboo and leather accents and brightly colored linens give it a sophisticated yet fun look ideal for any outing.  It comes packed with deluxe service for 2 including plates, wine goblets, cutlery, plastic food containers, corkscrew, cheese knife, cutting board, salt & pepper shakers, cotton napkins and a cotton tablecloth.

For more elegant, romantic picnic baskets for couples, families or just for you, see the full selection at PicnicFun.com.

Product Spotlight: The Santa Cruz Collection

Gone are the days when old-fashioned wicker baskets with red-and-white gingham linens were the height of picnic fashion.  Modern picnickers want fresh, trendy, modern picnic gear that keeps up with their personal style.  Not only can you get picnic items that make fashionable accessories, you can get a matching set!  Take your picnic gear up a notch with one of our stylish picnic collections.  This week we’re spotlighting a favorite of ours – the Santa Cruz Collection.

The Santa Cruz Collection of products, by Picnic at Ascot, features soft, versatile sand colored canvas fabric with striped accent fabric in beige, chocolate brown and spa blue.  The designer linens feature a fun, modern cocoa polka dot design.  The combination of these three fabrics plus chocolate brown trim creates a look you’ll be proud to carry around.   The Santa Cruz collection includes a small insulated tote, picnic cooler for 2 (pictured top), picnic backpack for 4, picnic backpack for 2, wine carrier for 2, sling strap duffel, triple wine and cheese tote, waterproof picnic mat, lunch cooler, large insulated tote and large day tote.

Many of these items are multi functional, too.  The insulated totes in small and large could be used as purses, diaper bags, beach bags, or for quick trips to the grocery store.  The fully insulated, leak proof interior has a clear vinyl lining for easy clean-up – perfect for storing baby bottles or bringing home take-out food.  The look of the Santa Cruz Waterproof Picnic Mat can be deceiving – it folds up so small and portable, but is actually a 55”x55” full size picnic blanket with waterproof backing in a clear carry case.  Take it to the beach, picnics at the park, outdoor concerts, sporting events or line your backseat with it to prevent wet kiddos from soaking the interior of your vehicle.

Picnic at Ascot is renowned for creating high quality picnic goods with superb craftsmanship and impressive attention to detail.  They’ve perfected a style of casual elegance that’s applied to all of their products, from picnic baskets to all the accessories you need for a delicious, comfortable, luxurious meal on the go.  Their revolutionary thermal shield insulation keeps food insulated for hours, nixing the need for tons of loose ice cubes that tend to melt and get everything wet.  Custom antique-style brass accents and leather trim are the icing on the cake, making each piece extra durable and beautiful.  In many Picnic at Ascot products you’ll find ingenious extras that will make your picnic even more elegant including designer fabric napkins, miniature spill-proof salt and pepper shakers, wooden cheese boards and restaurant-quality wine openers.

Other Picnic at Ascot collections to check out include the Hampton Collection, the Driftwood Collection, the Weekender Collection, the Aegean Collection, the Santa Barbara Collection, the Bahamas Collection and the Chelsea Collection.

A Picnic at the Orchard

Now that fall is in full swing, it’s a great time to enjoy the bounty of the seasonal harvest.  Even if you live in an urban area, chances are there’s a farm not too far away where you can pick your own apples.  Going apple-picking at a farm is a great outing for dates or fun family time.  It’s a nice break in your regular routine and a delicious way to celebrate autumn.

To find a pick-your-own orchard near you, contact your local chamber of commerce.  Call ahead to check on hours and make sure that picnics are allowed (they usually are).  Dress warm and wear comfortable shoes so you can fully enjoy the experience of strolling around the orchard looking for ripe apples to put in your baskets.  Orchards are full of beautiful scenic picnic spots, so you’ll have plenty of settings to choose from for your meal.

Along with the apples you pick, you’ll want to bring along some fall-themed food and beverages to enjoy.  Check out our previous postings for ideas - Warm, Comforting Fall Picnic Desserts and Fall Picnic Recipes.  To keep your meal cold (or warm!) while you enjoy picking apples and walking around the orchard, we recommend using a high quality picnic basket or pack with an insulated food compartment.  Here are our picks for the perfect products to bring along:

Yorkshire Picnic Basket for 2 – This picnic basket has a shoulder pack type design with a comfortable padded shoulder strap, so you can carry it for hours without your arms getting tired.  It’s great for those picnic outings where you aren’t able to get back to the car to get your picnic basket.  This festive picnic basket has the traditional red and white gingham design on all the linens and comes chock full of tableware.

Stonington Farms Picnic Backpack for 4 – Perfect for families or groups of friends, this picnic backpack is loaded with style, quality and craftsmanship.  The padded shoulder straps make it comfy and convenient for carrying around, and a roomy food compartment gives you all the space you need for a family meal.  A smaller compartment in the front holds utensils, cloth napkins, plates and cups and a large picnic blanket is strapped to the side.

Hamptons Coffee Tote for 2 – Bring along a tall flask of steamy cocoa, coffee or tea to enjoy after a cold afternoon of apple picking.  This sophisticated tote comes with an insulated flask, two stainless steel insulated mugs, teaspoons, cloth napkins and a container for milk or cream.

Check back with us next week for fall cookout recipes!

Fall Picnic Essentials: Our Top Picks

With the heat of summer fading and cool breezes picking up, you’ll soon be spending a lot of your free time outdoors enjoying the weather.  Fall is full of tailgate parties, sporting events, concerts, festivals, block parties and holiday celebrations.  Make sure you’ve got all the outdoor gear you need to stay warm, hydrated, comfortable and well-fed.  We’ve chosen some of our favorite products for the season, sure to come in handy for you and your family and as gift ideas for the upcoming holidays.

Rendevous Picnic Basket for 4 – The rich, deep green hues of this basket contrast with warm leather accents for a look that’s perfect for fall.  The wooden frame of the box is covered in durable canvas, and has plenty of room for all your picnicking essentials.  It comes with four wine glasses, four ceramic plates, four sets of utensils, four cloth napkins, a wine opener, and an insulated wine cooler bag.  Pack a hot, comforting meal and invite a couple friends out for a scenic drive.  You’ll love the elegance and functionality of this picnic basket.

Luxury 100% Wool Blanket – A cozy picnic blanket is an absolute must once the cool weather kicks in.  We love how thick and soft this one is, and the ‘Antique Buchanan’ design is just right for the season.  It would be the perfect item to pull out and wrap yourself up in, cup of hot cocoa in hand.  If you’re looking for something in a lower price point, check out our perennial favorite, the Sunshine Blanket Tote.  It’s a bit thinner and has a waterproof backing.

Trekker Coffee & Tea Tote for 2 – Coffee isn’t just for a morning jolt – it’s a great way to warm up in cold weather.  The Trekker can also be used for cocoa, tea and other hot beverages.  This compact tote holds two insulated steel mugs, an insulated flask, two spoons and a printed waterproof picnic mat.  It’s compact with a convenient shoulder strap in shades of sophisticated browns and greens - what more could you ask for?

Picnic Plus Stadium Seat – You’ll be the envy of all the other spectators at sporting events you attend with this luxurious stadium seat – it’s practically a portable version of your living room armchair.  With foam padding, arm rests and extra-wide hook & loop fasteners to secure it, it sure beats sitting on the bare bleachers!  It folds completely flat and has a handle for easy transport and storage, and even has a couple pockets on the sides to stick your sunglasses and other accessories in.


Tailgater Picnic Set on Wheels for 4 – This deluxe set takes care of half your tailgate party shopping list.  Instead of gathering a bunch of disposable tableware and napkins, just slide this baby out of your trunk and set it up on a folding table.  This durable pack with its rugged wheels and telescopic handles comes complete with stainless steel flatware, melamine plates, acrylic glasses, cloth napkins, salt & pepper shakers, a wooden cutting board & cheese knife and a stainless steel multi-purpose corkscrew.

Want more cool gear for all your upcoming tailgate parties?  Check out the tailgating category on PicnicFun.com.  It’s full of great holiday gift ideas for sports lovers!

Top 5 Picnic Baskets for Summer

PicnicFun.com has tons of new picnic baskets, just in time for the height of summer.  If you’ve been looking for a great picnic set for your family, now’s a great time to get one with this huge variety of styles and colors.  We’ve gathered five of our favorites, and it was really hard to choose!  Every year, the new picnic sets that come out get more elegant, sophisticated and practical.  Check out the rest in the picnic baskets category at PicnicFun.com.

Brittany Cottage Garden Casual Basket for 2 – This is the kind of picnic basket that makes you think of breezy afternoons meandering down a wooded path on a tandem bicycle.  It’s casual, fun, and fresh.  This hand woven basket features hand-stitched linens, plates adorned with hand-painted roses, tumblers, cutlery, a wine opener, a rose-colored insulated food cooler, and a cruet set.  Also available in a set for 4.

Bistro Picnic Set for 4 – Stylish and sophisticated, the Bistro set is made for people who take their wine drinking seriously.  Have some crudités, grapes, brie and a baguette on a city rooftop with your closest friends and two bottles of wine.  Inside you’ll find four each of ceramic plates, wine glasses, knives, forks, spoons and cloth napkins along with a tablecloth and salt & pepper set.

Weekender Shoulder Strap Picnic Basket for 4 – This sleek, austere set is sure to impress even the most elitist of picnickers.  With details reminiscent of turn of the 20th century British colonial style, the simplicity of design makes it seem fresh and modern.  Dark leather and brass accents complement the spare, muted hues of gray and tan.  The set includes enough wine glasses, ceramic plates, cutlery and napkins for four along with a wine opener, wooden cheese board, cheese knife, insulated wine pouch and salt & pepper shaker set.

Couture Willow Picnic Basket for 2 – This beautiful, uniquely shaped picnic basket is woven from natural willow and sea grass.  The cotton linen lining has a colorful red striped pattern, also found on the cloth napkins, tablecloth and insulated wine pouch.  It comes complete with everything you need for a sunny picnic for two including two plates, two wine glasses, flatware, a wine opener, wooden cheese board and portable salt and pepper shakers.

Coastal Wine & Cheese Basket for 4 – Perfect for the beach, park, or anywhere you’d like an al fresco meal for four, this picnic basket has classic style with a twist.  It has a traditional picnic basket shape and your choice of blue or red gingham lining, with a double-lidded top.  Ideal for picnic purists who like to treat friends and family to a meal with all the picnic trimmings, it comes with everything you need for four people.

Keep Cool with a Beach Picnic

Beach picnics are an ideal way to celebrate summer.  You’ve got the sun warming your face, the ocean breeze blowing through your hair, and the soothing sound of the sea to help you relax.  Pack some cool beverages and snacks in a cooler, grab your gear and enjoy the season – it’ll be over before you know it!  Here are our favorite beach picnic necessities that effortlessly mix style & practicality.

Beach Day Large Beach Tote – This colorful tote features a bold flip-flop design in cheery pink and green.   Stuff it with a towel, change of clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen and reading materials – it’ll keep them protected from the sand and surf with its strong, durable outer cover.  It’s super roomy, and has convenient pockets for your keys and other small items.

Radio Cooler – Take your pick of four hot colors – silver, red, lime or yellow.  This hot summer picnic item combines two functions in one – a radio and a fully insulated cooler that holds up to 18 cans of your favorite beverages.  The AM/FM radio has an input jack for your iPod, mp3 player or portable CD player so you can load up your summer playlists and listen with our without headphones (not provided, but there’s a speaker jack).

Rose Beach Chair – this folding beach chair is lightweight, sturdy, and comfortable.  The durable nylon seat features a pretty rose motif with red striped accents.  It’s small and flat enough when folded to store in the trunk of your car, pulling it out as needed.  If you’re looking for something a bit less girly, the original Beach Chair is for you.

Santa Cruz Waterproof Picnic Mat – Want a chic & stylish waterproof picnic blanket that you can use for year-round outdoor events?  The Santa Cruz Waterproof Picnic Mat has a beautiful blue-and-brown striped design, and folds up compact into a clear carrying case.  The blanket is a full 55”x55”, big enough for the whole family.  It’s machine washable, so you can just toss it in the washer when you get home and enjoy it again tomorrow.  If you like the Santa Cruz look, check out the whole collection, which includes coolers, totes, wine carriers and duffels.

Leaf Pop-Up Sun Shade – Make sure you keep your skin and eyes protected from the sun, especially if you have little ones.  The Leaf Pop-Up Sun Shade is a great way to seek shelter from the sun’s harsh rays – it’s cute, easy to use, and very portable.  It comes with a nylon carrying bag and shoulder strap, and you can adjust the height as needed once it’s set up.  The UV and reflective coating offer extra protection, above and beyond what a normal beach umbrella provides.

Get more great picnic goods for summer and beyond at PicnicFun.com.

It’s National Picnic Month! Celebrate in Style

July has been named ‘National Picnic Month’, and no wonder – it’s the ideal time to get outdoors and enjoy all the activities summer has to offer.  Gather your friends and family together and head out for playtime in the park, lazy days at the beach, hiking, camping, enjoying scenic drives, cooking out in the backyard or just enjoying these days of casual summer living.  All you need to do is cook up some summer treats and pack them up, along with your picnic supplies, in a basket or backpack.  Picnic baskets aren’t just wicker and gingham anymore – you can find super-stylish designer prints, luxurious fabrics, chic shapes and bright, cheery colors.  Here are some great picks for stylish summertime picnic sets.

Carnival Willow Picnic Basket for 4 – Available in either ‘Dotty Spot’ as pictured, or ‘Cool Fern’, a beautiful botanical motif in relaxing shades of blue and green.  This hand-woven willow basket is classic with a contemporary twist, containing all you need for a picnic for four.  Just add the food and drinks!  It comes with an insulated food container, wine cooler, corkscrew, cotton tablecloth, and four each of plates, tumblers, cotton napkins, knives, forks, and spoons.  It’s also available as a smaller set for 2.

Bridgewater Summertime Tulips Basket – The incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into this designer basket is evident in every aspect.  A striking hand-painted tulip motif, designed by Emma Bridgewater, adorns the china plates and mugs.  Glass tumblers, cotton napkins, stainless steel cutlery, a tablecloth, corkscrew, cruet, stainless steel flask and mini cooler bag round out the set.  It’s perfect for elegant tea parties in the garden, romantic dates or a girls’ day out.  The Summertime Tulips basket comes in three different sizes as sets for two, four, or six people.

Riviera Meritage Wine and Cheese Tote for 2 – This deluxe insulated wine and cheese service set for two is perfect for travel, outdoor concerts, cruising on the ocean in a yacht or just enjoying some wine with a friend in your backyard.  Two insulated compartments hold wine bottles, and an insulated wine glass section can convert into a third bottle compartment.  It includes a cutting board, corkscrew, cheese knife, bottle stopper, 2 wine glasses and 2 cloth napkins.  The combination of sage green and bright striped fabric makes this a chic item to carry to summer events.

Beachside Red Picnic Bag for 2 – Enjoy a laid-back summer meal on the beach, at the park, or anywhere you want to picnic with this cool, casual set.  It’s lightweight, durable and compact, with double canvas handles and an adjustable shoulder strap.  Inside, you’ll find salt & pepper shakers, a cutting board, corkscrew, empty PVC bag, cheese knife and 2 each of knives, forks, spoons, melamine plates, and cotton napkins.  It’s perfect for enjoying take-out from your favorite restaurant in a more romantic setting – like a mountain overlook, a waterfall, or a rooftop terrace.

Cooladio Picnic Pak for 2 – This best-selling set has everything you need for fun in the sun.  Declared one of summer’s best items to bring to the beach in multiple nationwide publications, this cooler has a built-in AM/FM radio, a corkscrew, cutting board, cheese knife and 2 each of cotton napkins, acrylic glasses, melamine plates, forks, knives, and spoons.  The radio has an input jack for headphones, portable CD players or mp3 players, so you can turn any outdoor excursion into a party.  Available in lime green or orange.

For more great summer picnic products, check out PicnicFun.com.

Choose the Right Picnic Set for Your Needs

Picnic baskets, backpacks, shoulder bags, totes, trolleys – there’s a picnic set out there for everyone.  But where do you start?  How do you know which one’s right for you?  Here are some simple tips to assist you in your quest for the perfect picnic set.

Pack or basket?  Think about your lifestyle.  How will you use your picnic set?  Is it for toting your lunch to work, taking the kids to the park, having a formal tea in the garden, or enjoying a meal stop on a wilderness hike? 

Picnic baskets are perfect for people who want that authentic picnic experience – romantic picnic dates, family outings, special occasions, outdoor concerts and the like.  They’re classic, beautiful, and iconic – like the all-time best seller Somerset Picnic Basket for 2 pictured above.

Picnic packs, on the other hand, are all about convenience and durability.  The padded straps, rugged exterior, and do-anything attitude make them ideal for the adventurous & sporty, travelers, or anyone on the go.

Backpack, shoulder bag or trolley?  If you’ve chosen to get a picnic pack, there are still more decisions to make.  Backpacks are a great choice for active picnickers who love to hike, bike, camp, or otherwise need the comfort of a backpack design.  Anyone who’s not up to carrying a heavy cooler around will love the convenience of rolling trolleys and their long, telescopic handles (Avalanche Riviera Cooler on Wheels pictured left).  Shoulder bags are the most versatile – they’re casual, easy to carry, and great for everyday use.  Many shoulder-style picnic packs can double as women’s hand bags or diaper bags.

Party of two, party of four, party of six…  How many people will be using your picnic set?  You’ll most often find that picnic baskets and packs come in sets for 1, 2, 4, or 6 people.  Solo travelers will benefit from a one-person lunch pack such as the Chelsea Retro Lunch Cooler.  When in doubt, size up – you never know when that extra place setting will come in handy.  If you’ve got more than 6 people in your family, you can purchase supplements like the Picnic Vallise for 2 (pictured left).

From ice cream and hot cocoa to wine tastings and tailgate parties… Finally, what sort of extras do you need?  Wine connoisseurs can get picnic packs or baskets complete with insulated wine bottle compartments, corkscrews, wine glasses and cutting boards for cheese.  If portable hot beverages are your thing, you might want a pack or basket that comes with insulated flasks and mugs.  Families with kids might like a picnic cooler specially designed for cool treats on a hot day (Ice Cream Party Cooler for 6, pictured left), while sports fans will get a kick out of all-in-ones that come with a portable grill, cooler compartment and BBQ tools. 

To find the perfect picnic set for your needs, check out the selection at PicnicFun.com.  They’ve got everything described above and more, with free shipping on orders over $100.

Top 5 Products for Summer Activities

Outdoor fun hits its peak during the summer, when we all kick back and relax in the sun for barbecues, parties, swimming, bonfires, and all the other great activities there are to enjoy.  During all those adventures, you’ll find you need gear: coolers, folding chairs, picnic sets, portable radios, a grill, BBQ tools… the list goes on and on!  With a few handy multiple purpose products, you can cut that list down to just five convenient, portable items.  Here are our picks for the top 5 best products for summer fun.

Vulcan Tailgater Grill and Cooler – This compact, well-made all-in-one is perfect for all your summertime fun on the go.  As the name implies, it’s ideal for sports games – but it can also be used by couples, families and groups of friends while boating, fishing, hiking, taking a scenic drive or hitting the beach.  Inside you’ll find an insulated, fully removable waterproof cooler section, a portable gas grill and a 3-piece BBQ set.  Since it runs on gas, clean-up is super easy, and the trolley design makes it a breeze to transport.

Leaf Pop-Up Sun Shade – It’s important to keep your family’s skin protected from the sun, especially if you have little ones.  Beach umbrellas can be bulky and inconvenient for travel.  The Leaf Pop Up Sun Shade is cute, stylish, and easy to transport practically anywhere.  It has a UV and reflective coating for ultimate protection from the sun, and adjustable height.

Bahamas Deluxe Travel Picnic Set for 2 – This picnic set is so compact, you could easily stow it away under a seat in your car for impromptu picnics.  The unique round shape and sophisticated natural fiber fabrics make this a stylish item to carry along on summer travel, to outdoor concerts and festivals, or on romantic dates.  It includes a corkscrew, cutting board, cheese knife, salt & pepper shaker set, two plates and two sets of flatware.

Radio Cooler Chair – Combine three summer essentials into one easy-to-carry item.  The Radio Cooler Chair makes it a snap to turn any destination into a party zone.  Store beverages in the roomy cooler compartment – it can hold up to 24 cans!  The detachable AM/FM radio includes an audio input jack for your portable CD player or iPod. 

Fiesta Cabana Blue Stripe Beach Tote – Pack all your essentials into this handy, colorful tote.  It’s perfect for a day at the beach, a picnic, or for use as a cute summer handbag or diaper bag.  It includes a matching beach mat and an accessory bag to keep sunglasses, jewelry, your wallet and other small items at hand.

All these items and many more picnic and outdoor living products can be found at great prices with free shipping on orders over $100 at PicnicFun.com.

Must-Have Items for that Romantic Weekend Getaway

Every couple needs a romantic getaway every now and then, even if it’s just for the weekend.  Pack your bags, head to your favorite weekend destination, and enjoy some relaxing quality time with the help of these five perfect picnic products.  They’re stylish, convenient, and will give you the freedom to snuggle up, enjoy a delicious meal and watch the sunset in that perfect, undisturbed picnic spot.

Driftwood Topanga Insulated Shoulder Tote – Why carry around a bulky, unattractive cooler when you can take a stroll with this lightweight beauty on your shoulder?  This handy carry-all will keep food and beverages cold and fresh for hours, without sacrificing style.  The durable yet attractive fabrics come in a cool, sophisticated combo of chocolate brown and robin’s egg blue.

Weekender Deluxe Travel Picnic Set for 2 – The ‘net has been abuzz lately with praise for this cool, compact picnic set.  Contained within a miniature, easy-to-carry zip-up canvas case is a full set of picnic ware for two people, including plates, flatware, a corkscrew, cutting board, cheese knife and mini salt & pepper shakers.  The whole thing weighs only two pounds, and is great for grabbing take-away goodies from a deli or the market to tote to a more romantic setting, like the beach at sunset.

Weekender Fold Up Travel Duffle – Perfect for toting home souvenirs purchased on your travels, this sleek travel bag goes from a teeny, folded and buttoned little package to a sturdy, roomy tote in seconds.  The handsome cream-and-brown unisex style makes it a great option for both sexes.

Rose Duet Wine and Cheese Tote – Enjoy a glass of wine and some assorted cheeses with your loved one in the romantic location of your choice.  The Rose Duet Wine and Cheese Tote allows you to enjoy your wine and cheese on the go.  This stylish, insulated two-bottle wine tote comes complete with a corkscrew, cheese knife and cutting board.  The romantic rose pattern is trimmed with red and features faux suede accents, a double zipper with hook and loop closure, an adjustable shoulder strap, and dependable ThermoGuard insulation.

Sunshine Blanket Tote – This old picnic favorite is back in chic, modern colors and prints for summer.  This durable blanket has a waterproof backing to protect you and your food against moisture and insects.  It folds up compact and has a handy carrying strap so you can bring it anywhere; Courtney Cox toted hers to a movie premiere (pictured left in ‘Driftwood’; source: People.com).  Check out the other stylish options available here.

At PicnicFun.com you can find hundreds of romantic picnic baskets, picnic backpacks, cocktail sets, blankets, accessories and much more.

Putting a ‘Green’ Spin on the Traditional Family Picnic

Family picnics are a great way to get in touch with nature, enjoying all that the earth has to offer – delicious food, a cool breeze, the warmth of the sun and the softness of a carpet of grass.  As you enjoy nature in the wild, take care not to harm the environment in the process.  Unfortunately, it’s all too easy to disturb the ecological balance, pollute the water, and produce a lot of trash by using disposable products when we go on picnics, go camping, have cookouts or go hiking.  Luckily, though, it’s equally easy to avoid doing these things.  Here are a few tips that can help you make conscious choices as you plan your next picnic, helping to make the earth a little more ‘green’:

Get an eco-friendly picnic basket or picnic pack filled with reusable items.  Picnic sets help you reduce the amount of trash you produce with each outing.  Cloth napkins, plastic or china plates, acrylic glassware, stainless steel utensils and cute little mini salt and pepper shakers are elegant and easy on the environment.  Any picnic set is an environmentally friendly alternative to using disposables, but you can take it a step further with these eco-friendly baskets: The Sebago 2 Person Picnic Basket, the Palm Bay 4 Person Picnic Basket, the Westport 4 Person Picnic Basket and the T-4-Two Picnic Basket (pictured).  All of these options are made with renewable resources, and are AZO free.  (AZO dyes and pigments are commonly used to color textiles and plastics, and some of the by-products are toxic and may be carcinogenic.  AZO dyes also resist biodegradation, so they’re difficult to remove from the ecosystem.)

You can also make your picnic more environmentally friendly in the following easy ways:

• Walk, ride a bicycle, rollerblade or ride public transportation to your picnic location rather than driving your vehicle.
• Reduce the amount of processed and packaged food you eat by choosing natural whole foods such as produce and breads, cheeses and meats purchased fresh from your local market.  Have the person who takes your order place your purchases directly in a reusable container rather than wrapping them in plastic.  To take it even further, tote your purchases home in reusable tote bags such as Envirosax rather than the store’s plastic bags.
• Avoid the use of Styrofoam whenever possible.  If you’re getting take-out, ask for it in aluminum foil or bring your own container.  Likewise, bring your own insulated beverage mug to the coffee shop rather than using one of their disposable cups.  Styrofoam endangers wildlife and is not biodegradable.
• Do your best not to disturb the living things around you as you enjoy your picnic.  Don’t pick flowers, remove natural elements such as rocks, or disturb wildlife.
• Re-use your plastic bags from the grocery store for trash or to place your used plates and utensils in after you eat.

These small, simple steps won’t take much of your time or energy, but they’ll go a long way toward making our earth a better place to live.  To learn more about eco-friendly products, check out the Eco-Friendly Buyer’s Guide at SpecialtyLiving.com.

Fun & Stylish Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

Mother’s Day is this Sunday!  Have you found the perfect gift yet?  With summer approaching, now’s a great time to get Mom some practical and good looking accessories for outdoor fun.  Encourage her to take some time to relax and indulge herself with trips to the beach, poolside lounging, glasses of wine with friends, and a picnic with Dad.  Thank her for all she’s done for you with some unique and thoughtful Mother's Day gifts that she’ll enjoy for years to come.  Click on the images to see them larger.

Fiesta Cabana Blue Stripe Beach Tote – Ideal for a day at the beach, the pool, or sightseeing, this colorful tote comes complete with a matching accessory bag and beach mat.  The convenient accessory bag is great for cosmetics, sunscreen, sunglasses, and other small items Mom would like to keep separate from her towel, book, and water bottle. 

Cool Fern Summer Bag – What can’t this bag be used for?  It’s lightweight, roomy, and has a convenient wipe-clean removable cooler lining.  This is another tote that’s great for the beach or pool, but it also comes with some really great extras – 4 picnic place settings including plates, tumblers, knives, forks, and spoons.  The blue and green fern print gives it a hip modern look that make it great for use as an everyday handbag or as an eco-friendly option for purchases while shopping.

Blyton Vintage Picnic Basket for 2 – Any woman would love to have this delightful retro picnic set for romantic dates, tea in the park with friends, or a nice lunch at work.   The smart-looking red tin holds a set of picnic tableware in a beautiful ice blue, with a floral-painted enamel flask, embroidered napkins, and a removable willow tray to keep it all in place.

Dotty Spot Wine Bottle Cooler Set – This fun, contemporary wine bottle cooler set will be a hit at parties, wine tastings, or a night out on the town.  Colorful polka dots adorn an insulated wine bottle cooler that will keep a bottle of wine chilled for hours, along with two melamine tumblers and a corkscrew.  All this plus the handy carrying strap make this an ideal gift for moms who love outdoor concerts, festivals, winery tours, and toting wine along to parties.

Hot Pack Coffee Shoulder Bag for 2 – Now, Mom can have a piping hot cup of coffee wherever she goes, without worrying about spilling it all over the place.  Great for commutes, taking to work, picnics, or travel, this set will keep plenty of coffee, tea, or other hot beverages at just the right temperature for hours.  It comes with stainless steel spoons, an insulated flask, screw-top cream and sugar containers, and two stainless steel mugs.  Everything is held into place inside by individual straps and pockets, and the comfy adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to transport anywhere.

PicnicFun.com has a special collection of Mother’s Day Gift Ideas with dozens of items that are perfect for showing Mom how much you care.  Shop now to save up to 25% off retail prices, plus get free shipping on orders over $100.

Planning an English Tea Party in the Garden

Tea parties evoke sunny, glowing images of roses in full bloom, dainty sandwiches, delicate floral prints, gauzy dresses, and, of course, a good pot of tea.  English-style tea parties are an elegant option for bridal showers, baby showers, birthday celebrations or just time to catch up with friends and family.  While all you really need is the tea, other elements such as food, comfortable seating, and beautiful traditional picnic baskets are what really set the mood.  Hosting a tea party is simple and rewarding, especially with these tips and our hand-picked selection of beautiful picnic and outdoor living items.

The Setting – Naturally, a garden is the ideal spot for an English tea party.  You can have it in your own yard, a park, or even the lawn of a nearby historical home (call and ask; many of them allow this!).  Spring is the perfect time of year for a tea party; there are so many flowers in bloom to lend their color and scent as natural decorations.  Tea parties held in gardens don’t require much in the way of centerpieces and adornments – they’re best held on picnic blankets in a grassy area or, if you will have older guests in need of chairs, at a picnic table or bistro table.  A light cotton or linen tablecloth will dress the table up nicely.

The Food – When one thinks of tea parties, light and delicate food items typically come to mind.  Tea sandwiches, scones, muffins, cookies, fruit salad and pasta salad are great choices.  Bite-size appetizers are a delicious alternative that allow you to really get creative with what you serve – just make sure it will transport well if you’re holding your tea party in a location other than a home with a kitchen readily available.  For some tea party food ideas, see About.com’s Recipes for Tea Sandwiches and Goodies, or Recipezaar.com’s collection of recipes for appetizers and finger foods.

The Tableware – Now comes the best part: choosing an elegant tea party set to serve your guests.  If you’re having more than four people and having the tea party outside the home (such as the park or a public garden), paper and plastic will likely be your best bet.  Target now has a collection of elegant designer paper and plastic tableware, recently featured in InStyle Magazine, that’s perfect for tea parties and other occasions where disposable tableware is preferred, but you don’t want to lose out on style.

If you’re planning an intimate tea party for four or less people, nothing gives it a more traditional and sophisticated feel than a real picnic basket filled with tea essentials.  These beautiful, high quality baskets were hand-picked for their appropriateness for the occasion.

The Bloomsbury Vintage Picnic Basket for 4 is the quintessential English tea set with a modern twist.  The round shape and lovely designer print on the cloth napkins and tablecloth give it a unique personality; a large hand-painted enamel flask will hold plenty of tea for four.  You’ll also find a cruet set, a wine corkscrew, and four each of plates, mugs, knives, forks, spoons, and tumblers.

The Blossom Tea Lovers Basket has a more traditional look, with a stunning floral motif by designer Cath Kidston.  It comes in two sizes – small for two people, and medium for four.  Inside this elegant basket is full tea service for either two or four people: a stainless steel flask, beautifully patterned china mugs and plates, cloth napkins, glass tumblers, salt and pepper shakers, a wine corkscrew, a food cooler and stainless steel cutlery.

If you’d prefer something with a cute retro look, the Blyton Vintage Picnic Basket for 2 is for you.  A sharp-looking red tin holds a removable willow tray packed with picnic goodies including an enamel printed flask, mugs, cutlery, a cruet set, plates with their own storage bag, cutlery, mugs, and embroidered cloth napkins.

For more picnic baskets, blankets, and other accessories, check out PicnicFun.com.

Stylish, Compact Accessories for the Business Traveler

Any frequent business traveler has learned an important lesson: what goes into your suitcase can make or break your trip.  You’ve got to be prepared for various weather conditions, last-minute changes to your itinerary, and entertaining clients in a foreign city.   The number one most important tip given to business travelers is to pack smart – don’t bring the kitchen sink, but make sure you’ve got the right items to make your trip pleasant and productive.  These four products from PicnicFun.com will make any business traveler’s life easier:

The Solo Picnic Pack – Sometimes, you just don’t have time to have a leisurely lunch in a restaurant before that big meeting with important potential clients – but fast food doesn’t cut it, either.  You need a healthy, filling meal that will give you the energy you require to perform at your best.  This simple, lightweight, waterproof lunch cooler allows you to run to the market or deli and enjoy a delicious meal outdoors.

Kona Coffee Flask – This handy travel thermos will keep your coffee, tea or other hot beverage at just the right temperature for hours.  The convenience can’t be beat – the insulated carrier has a shoulder strap, so you won’t have to worry about spilling coffee on your business suit on the way to a meeting.  It’s especially convenient on buses, subways and other public transportation, and is a great companion to the Solo Picnic Pack shown above.

Mini Travel Bar for 2 – After a long, hectic day of running around in an unfamiliar city dealing with the typical pressure and stress of business interactions, it’s nice to unwind with your cocktail of choice.  If you want to relax undisturbed in your room, sit in a nearby park or otherwise enjoy some solitary tranquility, this mini travel bar is a perfect fit.  A flask, bar tools and two collapsible shot glasses are hidden away in a small protective case.

Turismo Backpack – When you’ve got downtime between appointments, meetings and other obligations, it’s nice to do a little sightseeing in the fresh air to de-stress and collect your thoughts.  This compact backpack features non-slip straps, two separate insulated interior compartments, plenty of interior pockets, a large insulated water bottle with cap and carrying strap, exterior pockets, mesh pocket with drawstring and a utility clip.

Go Couture with High Fashion Picnic Sets and Accessories

Outdoor living products typically aren’t known for their beauty, style and fashion.  Most equipment for picnics, hiking, camping, and travel are strictly utilitarian, in lackluster fabrics and drab colors – not exactly stuff you want to show off.  Luckily, some high-end manufacturers of quality picnic products realized that practical does not have to mean boring.  They’ve introduced the glamour of Hollywood, NYC and the world of fashion into the world of picnic sets and accessories, and these four products are stand-out stars.

The Catalina Riviera Picnic Basket has a European vacation kind of glamour that makes it easy for us to imagine luxurious meals on the beach in the south of France.  Though it may not transport you to an exotic foreign destination, you’ll look just as chic as any starlet or fashion model when you tote this beauty around.  It comes with all the fine accoutrements required for a romantic picnic for two.

The Windsor Picnic Backpack for 2 is just the thing to have on your back as you meander down quaint city streets on a bicycle with someone you love.  It’s incredibly soft and elegant, in shades of deep dusty rose and chocolate brown.  Strong durable construction, padded adjustable shoulder straps, thermal shield insulation and a waterproof interior ensure that this picnic pack will be around for the long haul.  It includes complete picnic service for two, including wine and cheese accessories.

What would celebrities and the fashion elite use to transport a few bottles of wine to an exclusive party?  Nothing but the best, of course.  The Santa Barbara Triple Wine Carrier is ultra-luxe, boasting custom antique brass details, contrast stitching and bright, cheery stripes.  The thermal shield insulation will keep your wine bottles at just the right temperature until you’re ready to open them.  Included are a nickel plated wine stopper and waiter-style corkscrew.

Now this is an item we can easily picture hanging on the shoulder of Old Hollywood royalty.  Just like elegant and glamorous black and white films of the past, the Manhattan Cocktail Set is sleek, sophisticated and charming.  This portable cocktail party on the go has room for two bottles of your favorite spirits, and also comes with an array of bar tools, two martini glasses, bottle stoppers, cloth napkins, and a corkscrew.

Check out the rest of what PicnicFun.com has to offer – you might be surprised!  Elegance, sophistication and the highest level of craftsmanship and quality can be found in every picnic set and accessory. 

Outdoor Entertaining with Style and Soul

Nothing is quite so sweet as spending a quiet moment in time with your loved ones, enjoying the fresh air, the sunlight on your skin or the stars twinkling above.  Taking the time to savor each other’s presence is a luxury in life that we let fall to the wayside all too often, allowing other things to take priority over our time together.  Put aside that stack of bills, turn off your computer, silence your cell phone and grab those essential items you’ll need for a beautiful and memorable date – with your friends, your spouse, your children, or anyone else who deserves your undivided attention.

It’s easy to create an unforgettable excursion with some good food, nothing to separate you from the great outdoors, and outdoor entertaining items tailored to your specific tastes and needs.  Personalize your experience with an elegant picnic basket, romantic wine and cheese set, sophisticated cheese board, high class barbecue tool set or other lovely picnic products customized to the outdoor entertaining experience that you desire.

If you’re planning a romantic picnic date with the one you love, wine and cheese is guaranteed to impress.  This classic combination will make an even better impression in a beautiful set such as the Windsor Sunset Wine Carrier (left).  The rich colors and designer fabrics of this handy little item are pleasing to the eye, while the high tech insulation, unbreakable acrylic glasses, decorative bottle stopper and stainless steel corkscrew offer convenience and quality at a great value.

Having some friends over for hors d’oeuvres and wine in your backyard?  The Soiree Bamboo Cutting Board is a convenient and great-looking set that makes slicing assorted cheeses a breeze.  It features an aluminum and wood cutting surface, cheese wire, a cheese shaver, fork-tipped cheese knife, and spreader.  Magnetic dots encased in the slots hold the tools in place, and the compact design makes this set a great choice for travelers.

The Catalina Riviera Picnic Basket will make you feel like you’re on holiday in Europe even if you’re really just at the park down the street from your house.  Take your mom for an elegant brunch in a rose garden, have a light lunch with a friend on the beach, or take your spouse on a surprise picnic at a romantic overlook with this cheerful set with deluxe service for two.  It comes complete with everything you need for a great meal – just provide the food!

Of course, the beautiful, high quality picnic products don’t stop there – check out the full selection at www.picnicfun.com.  You’ll find picnic baskets and packs in a wide range of colors and styles for all tastes and budgets, along with hundreds of highly useful accessories to choose from.

Getting Back to Nature – Camping Supplies and Packs for the Ultimate Quick Trip

Not everyone is an adventurous, rugged, camping type of person.  Some of us prefer a comfortable, clean hotel room to sleeping in a tent in the wilderness – so, we don’t exactly stockpile camping equipment.  There are those times, however, when getting out into the open air with the kids or a group of friends is just irresistible.  The idea of spending time enjoying simple pleasures such as roasting marshmallows on an open fire, fishing in a creek and exploring in nature can sometimes lure us out into the tent-dwelling lifestyle, at least temporarily.  That’s why having multi-purpose outdoor living supplies such as coolers, sports chairs and grills that are also appropriate for a ball game or concert in the park is such a great idea.  These item