Now that summer is in full swing, I'd like to share some vintage-inspired outdoor entertaining ideas with you.
I thought it would be fun to imagine a gathering that utilizes some of my favorite things — my picnic tin collection, 1940s tablecloths, Bakelite-handled cutlery, and more.
To begin . . . Using Paperless Post, let's invite 10 good friends (6 couples in all), load up the car (my favorite being a Woodie station wagon like this one I saw on MV last week), and head to a shady picnic grove (such as a leafy local park or even your own backyard).
At this fresh air gathering, each couple will be presented with their own boxed lunch housed inside a colorful 1950s tin. Before the meal begins, everything can be artfully displayed upon a wooden park bench or picnic table.
To define the picnic area and make it even more festive, hang fabric pennant banners from the trees.
Next, have each couple select a vintage tablecloth and a tin of their choice.
Then have everyone find a shady spot to spread their cloth for an alfresco lunch.
Vintage flatware with Bakelite handles continues the retro theme.
Time to eat! Inside each tin is an easy, delicious lunch, such as these pressed picnic sandwiches wrapped in kraft paper and tied with twine.
On the left are Eggplant, Prosciutto and Pesto Sandwiches found on the Host the Toast blog. Pressed Italian Sandwiches from the Season & Suppers blog would also be delicious.
Along with a selection of beer and wine, these old fashioned soft drinks from Wild Bill's have the right vintage vibe.
Fresh salads in glass Mason jars are easy to pack and look beautiful. I discovered enticing recipes for a Cobb Salad (left) and Quinoa Salad on the ValSoCal blog.
For dessert, how about a S’mores Trifle in a jar (below left) from Mom Endeavors? Of if you prefer, a Lemon Berry Trifle, from Joyful Scribblings, is a yummy possibility.
So right about now, you may be thinking . . . I love this picnic idea, Susan, but I don't have a ridiculously large tin and flatware collection like you do. No problem!
This charming picnic lunch was created by the Home is Where the Boat Is blog. It uses a new, plaid metal basket from World Market.
Sadly, the plaid version is sold out online. However, the adorable fruity one is available for only $12.59.
World Market also offers these cute eco-friendly wooden utensils in red or blue. And just $5.99 per set!
To get the word out, Paperless Post offers dozens of invitations and cards for any occasion. Beautifully designed, you can even customize your favorite one to reflect your personal style.
Happy picnicking! 😊
Susan
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I love this post, Susan! So creative and fun. Looks like you went to a lot of work.:) I might have to have a picnic now this weekend.
Posted by: Kristy L. | June 25, 2015 at 03:54 PM
Thanks, Kristy! It was a bit of work, but fun, too!
Posted by: Susan | June 25, 2015 at 04:06 PM
Loads of beautiful eye candy in this post! Your picnic tin collection is one of the finest. I have the fruity picnic tin from World Market. It was recently on sale for $8.99. Love those recipe suggestions too. Have a wonderful weekend!
Posted by: Musings from Kim K. | June 26, 2015 at 06:20 AM
I love everything about this post! I have some of the same picnic tins you have. I LOVE the vintage cloths as well! The whole thing made my heart go pitter patter! Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Peggy | June 26, 2015 at 02:29 PM
Peggy~ Thanks so much for your kind words! :)
Posted by: Susan | June 26, 2015 at 03:05 PM
A Woodie wagon, whoop, whoop, my kind of auto. I love it! Cute post Susan, I love the old picnic tins. I have a collection too but I use mine to hold my cook books and recipes. You made me hungry with all those delicious pics.
Posted by: Elsie | July 04, 2015 at 07:32 PM
Elsie~ Thank you! It's always so nice to hear from you!
Posted by: Susan | July 06, 2015 at 09:37 AM