Potluck Picnic Tips

Our busy lifestyles leave us little time to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family. Sometimes we just have to pencil "Fun at 1:00" into our schedules. With a little bit of pre-planning, you can schedule a monthly (or more frequent) planned picnic getaway with your pals. It's easy as 1-2-3!

Choose a nice area that's easily accessible for everyone on the guest list. Try to "meet in the middle" when everyone lives in separate parts of town. Maybe it's a local park, the beach, or a wooded area. You can even switch it up for more variety!

Have everyone choose a dish to bring to the picnic. One person can make dessert while another brings the bottle of wine. Spreading out the preparations will let everyone add their special something to the occasion without putting all of the work on one person. This is supposed to be fun - not work!

Plan a game or activity for the day. A game of Badminton or Frisbee will have everyone laughing and getting great exercise, too! If you're not up for intense physical activity, bring a deck of cards or a project of shared interest (such as knitting). The activity possibilities are endless!

Don't let the changing seasons stop you. Picnics are possible year round with a little variation in menu and attire (think hot chocolate in winter, with accompanying earmuffs and mittens!). Knowing you have an upcoming get together with friends or family gives you something to look forward to during the seemingly endless series of hectic days. You'll have a great time and get a chance to enjoy the great outdoors!