There’s just something so romantic about putting together a basket full of delicious food to be shared outside, during the beautiful Queensland summer. This is why we have put together a guide on how to plan the perfect picnic for your family or loved one. The amount of preparation and planning that goes into the day will show just how much you care, while providing an experience you will all enjoy. Embrace the Valentine’s day spirit at Stockland Rockhampton, where you’ll find everything you need to make this the best one yet.
Step 1: choose a location
There’s no better way to set the tone for a great picnic than choosing the ultimate location. Selecting a picnic spot relies on so many factors. Location convenience, weather, popularity, time of day and more. So when selecting a picnic make a list of your preferences, do some research, and don’t forget to check the weather forecast!
If you don’t mind somewhere a little more popular, the beach is always a great pick in Queensland. You have the added bonus of jumping in the water for a dip if it gets too hot. Just be sure to slip, slop, slap!
If something a little more scenic (and quiet) is more your scene, then local lakes or hills and mountains can provide a stunning backdrop to your picnic, and often an added adventure. Tie in the picnic with a hike or some stand-up paddle-boarding for some additional fun.
Step 2: select what to serve
Preparation is key for pulling off a delicious spread, and being able to whip something up at home to pack up is not only a thoughtful surprise, but often the most tasty. The warm Queensland summer makes fresh fruit taste even sweeter and is perfect for a refreshing snack that can be prepped at home. Think watermelon, grapes and ripe strawberries to get your taste buds going. You certainly can’t go past a tasty cheese board in your picnic planning, and you'll find the perfect wooden boards and cheese knives at Robin's Kitchen. Sandwiches also make great picnic food and you can't go past Miguel Mastre’s Chicken Finger Sandwiches.
If you are looking for something a little more gourmet to elevate your picnic, delicious picnic recipes include Arancini Balls, Chorizo and Beef Empanadas, and Cinnamon Slices with Rosehip Jam for something sweet. You can pick up everything you need to make these tasty recipes at Coles and Woolworths.
Step 3: the set up
Location is sorted, and food is prepped and packed, so now to set up a comfortable picnic spread. The great thing about picnics is you can get as creative or simple as you like when you have great food and company.
Always begin with a great picnic rug which can keep you dry on dewy grass and your clothes clean. Kmart have a great selection of picnic rugs. Next, add in some comfy cushions and set up your serving trays or boards. Set up all your cutlery, tumblers and plates ready for serving. Find a Picnic Basket from Bed Bath N Table that has everything ready to go and room to pack some food!
For something a little more fancy, use some low lying picnic tables and set up a high tea tableware assortment. Opt for lounge chairs from Adairs, perfect for those who want to lean back and enjoy the scenery. If you want to feel a little more earthy then choose some comfy cushions.
Finish off your ultimate picnic set-up with some ambient music with a portable blue-tooth speaker from JB HI-FI or just enjoy basking in the sounds of nature. Now all you need are lawn games which you can find at Smokemart & Giftbox.
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