DIY French Picnic at Home

Tips to Create Your Own Parisian Picnic Paradise

Picnics are a quintessential summer activity- and one that can be done anywhere … especially during times like this! While we’d love to be relaxing along the Seine or in a French garden, you can transform your own picnic into the perfect French “pique-nique” with our tips and tricks. Grab your favorite charcuterie, a fresh baguette and blanket to bring the best of French summers to your own backyard!

Location, Location, Location

For most of us, a quaint 19th-century cottage or a spot in the Luxembourg gardens aren’t exactly options for a picnic right now: and that’s ok. Block out your afternoon to relax in your favorite spot close to home. The French art of picnics is really simple; the goal is to recharge in a place that you feel at ease. We can feel like we’re in our own  “ville française” by finding the perfect shady tree away from the noise of everyday life.

Gather your Picnic Necessities

One of our favorite things about picnics is that they only require a few items but can be the de-stressor that we all need during these times. To add just the right amount of French influence, pick up one of our comfy Maradji throw blankets to lay on while you watch the clouds go by. A wicker picnic basket is also a timeless way to carry all of your goodies as you stroll to your summer oasis.

Don’t forget your Opinel spreader! Featured in our 5.3 summer box, it is the perfect utensil to spread your favorite cheese onto your baguette. Made in Savoie, this French brand is the pinnacle of French craftsmanship and the perfect travel-sized spreader to include in your picnic basket.

Food!

French picnics are unmatched due to their scrumptious yet simple food. A fresh baguette, some cheeses and a few kinds of charcuterie from your local grocery store are sure to Frenchify your picnic. We love packing away from soft cheese, like Brie or chèvre frais, to go perfectly with some prosciutto or salami. Fresh fruit is a staple for the perfect French picnic, and go with whatever is in season; we recommend a scrumptious basket of strawberries and blackberries.

We hope that you can implement our pointers into your next afternoon picnic, as we know that we sure do love taking the day to unwind. Make sure to tag us in your pictures when you go on your own French-inspired picnic. And remember, the most important part of a summer picnic is to relax in a peaceful environment for you- that’s how the French intended it to be! 

To read the whole article on the perfect French summer picnic , check out What’s Gaby Cooking’s post. 

Subscribe to OuiPlease Box

Want to receive the best in French epicure, accessories, jewelry, and more? Subscribe today and get 25% off your first box with code: JULY25