Get set for summer with Katharine Pooley's garden picnic ideas for the perfect alfresco dining experience.
GARDEN PICNIC IDEAS
One of the best things about summer is the chance to spend quality time in your garden. Whether it’s breakfast in the sun, a lazy afternoon with a book, a barbecue for the family or an alfresco meal with friends.
So create an idyllic outdoor space this year by blurring the boundaries between inside and out, and extending your living space into your garden.
1. DINE ALFRESCO
May is one of my favourite times of year. With spring blossoms and new growth all around it is so uplifting.
2. MAKE IT MEMORABLE
My most treasured place for a picnic is just in front of the shepherd’s hut. It’s a very sunny spot and if there is a sudden rain shower we can dart inside until it passes.
3. FOCUS ON THE DETAIL
A picnic is by its nature informal but it can still have thoughtful touches. I like to hand-tie linen napkins with raffia and lavender.
4. ADD PRETTY DETAILS
I have added pretty details to the shepherd’s hut over the years such as flowers to the windows, hurricane lamps to the stairs and duck sculptures sit beside it. They all add a playful sense of whimsy.
5. SET THE SCENE
I added cushions, throws and crystalware to this more formal, alfresco dining area in the walled garden.
6. UTILISE THE COLOURS OF NATURE
Pink and purple accents draw the eye and look so elegant against the verdant green spring backdrop.
Katharine Pooley, katharinepooley.com
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