Sanibel-Captiva Daily

By Melinda of “Surroundings on Sanibel”

A Special Summer Picnic

Summer is in full swing and much is happening here on Sanibel Island.

I am proud to announce that I am now a contributor for Romantic Homes magazine! My first story, in the July 2012 issue, is now on newsstands. The theme is a romantic beach picnic. That, of course, is relatively easy to do on Sanibel…but what if you want to create something special anywhere else. Well, here are a few quick ideas you can use to create a romantic picnic with a beachy-feel wherever you may be.

Things to gather…

Start with a large tote or a wagon to corral your accoutrements. Find an old quilt or vintage fabric for a tablecloth. Gather decorative throw pillows to scatter on the blanket for comfort. Bring lanterns to take the picnic into the evening hours. In a small bucket, collect some sand and a handful of seashells. Pick some flowers from the garden or find a few wildflowers and create simple bouquets in old Mason jars. Load vintage picnic baskets with fresh fruit, mini sandwiches, and sweet treats. A cooler of ice and refreshments are a summertime must.

Once at your destination…

Set the scene. Just because it is a “picnic” it doesn’t have to lack panache. Create a beautiful table-scape with mix and match vintage floral dishes, jars of beautiful flowers and a sprinkling of seashells. Music and candlelight are wonderful touches but always take special caution with candles outdoors. It is also a great idea to have your camera. Documenting special days allows them to live on forever. A journal is another wonderful way to record your thoughts.

It is summer…make everyday occasions special occasions.

To see lots of pictures of a romantic beach picnic here on Sanibel please look for Romantic Homes July issue.

For more decorating ideas and inspiration visit…

www.surroundingsbymelinda.blogspot.com

Melinda first opened Surroundings on Sanibel as an Interior Design consulting firm in 1994 shortly after graduating from West Virginia University. The business quickly evolved into a retail shop featuring the “marketable version” of her every day life. The shop is filled with all of the lovely things that Melinda has cultivated into her own signature style…casual opulence.