How to Prep for the Perfect Picnic

The essentials of the perfect picnic began by keeping it as simple as possible.

Hyland Park, Dallas, TX
Hyland Park, Dallas, TX, June 2020

Since the heat has been getting higher and higher in Dallas, during the last few days, I can safely say that summer is well and truly here. While enjoying the longer days that this season has to offer, I started to entertain a few ideas on how to plan for the perfect picnic. 

For The Love of Nature

When I was single, I enjoyed planning elaborate picnics with menus that were a feast to behold. Nowadays, I love the chic and simple picnics. Whether I am with my husband or joined by a few friends with bags of salads, plates, silverware, and beverages we can all enjoy, I found that a picnic is a good time to put down the phone, take out the earbuds, and have some of the best conversations of my life, while surrounded by nature.

The Importance of a Picnic

Giving the sudden shift that came with the global pandemic, now more than ever, we see the benefits of spending time outdoors – yes, picnicking can possibly improve our physical health. Breathing in fresh air is beneficial for respiratory problems like asthma. And just think, a lovely picnic on a bright summer day also aids in vitamin D and calcium absorption. Who doesn’t need that?

What sort of food should you pack for a picnic? Prepping for a successful picnic should take little time and effort. You can obviously make it as fancy as you’d like, but the importance of keeping things simple is a good start for an effective picnic on the lawn. Besides packing a light fare, don’t forget some fresh fruits, your favorite desserts, and of course, the champagne! Adding some activity, like a board game, a great book to the mix or some of your favorite sport will work up your appetite. For my picnics, I like to serve sandwiches, French pâtés, salads, Scotch eggs – all the finger foods that travel well. Some of my friends prefer baguettes with salami, spinach, basil, pesto, and mozzarella for a mouthwatering bite. 

Whatever sorts of picnic you choose, remember to make it as special as possible, as memorable as you can, and keep it safe.

New York’s Noteworthy Art Openings

AUTUMN IN NY: Art Openings

Text and Photos by Rose Hartman

Run, do not walk to the Fashion Institute of Technology to visit their latest exhibit, “Fashion Underground; the World of Susanne Bartsch”; Dubbed the queen of the night, Bartsch gained fame as the creator of spectacular parties beginning in the early eighties On view are her one-of-a-kind, extravagant outfits and accessories designed by the likes of Gautier, McQueen and the Blonds,, and displayed in the museum’s ceiling-high gallery. Club-kid style and its ringleader’s wardrobe are on view until Dec. 5, 2015.

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Susanne Bartsch with Stephen Jones
Bartsch’s wardrobe
Bartsch’s wardrobe
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David & Phlippe Blond & Jean Shafiroff;
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Bartsch & Ru Paul
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Valerie Steele, FIT’s curator
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Pat Cleveland
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Calvin Klein
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Dianne Brill

BOOK LAUNCH:
Mao and Roger Padilla signed their latest biography on edgy fashion photographer Chris Von Wangenheim at Marc Jacob’s west village boutique before heading over to the Tunnel to celebrate.

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Marc Jacobs
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Karen Bjorson
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Guest at The Tunnel