For every lazy guy hell-bent on spending his weekends watching a game on TV, there’s probably a gal out there wishing he’d be a little more romantic. The truth is that it doesn’t take much to make her happy, we’re just too often convinced that we simply don’t understand what makes her tick. If you’re looking for a sure-fire way to wow your way into her heart and to turn all her girlfriends green with envy, your ticket is just one romantic picnic away.
It doesn’t need to be an extravagant, high-priced affair to be special to her. What counts here aren’t necessarily high-end picnic supplies but the very fact that you took the time to plan and prepare and, most importantly, execute an activity that she will know was done for no other reason than to show her you love her. So let’s get started, guys. This week, you get to be the guy all the other girlfriends and wives are referencing when they ask their men, “why can’t you be more like him?”
To begin with, you need something in which to carry your picnic supplies. The two simple schools of thought are a picnic basket or a picnic backpack. Either will do the job of carrying your wine, silverware, food, blanket and other essentials, but put some thought into which will best suit your objective which is to impress your gal. After you’ve read this post, visit our picnic supply store to find a huge supply of both picnic baskets and picnic backpacks for your consideration.
A picnic basket would be the traditional choice. This option scores high on two counts. First, you just can’t beat the nostalgia factor. A romantic picnic complete with an authentic basket just screams, well, romance. The second point in favor of a basket is that it is a sign your girl might just be looking for; a sign of a willingness to commit. Investing in a great picnic basket (particularly if it is a for-three or more set) says I’m content to settle down with you, baby, and for whatever kids might be coming our way.
A picnic backpack is an obviously modern affair and loses some points in that it isn’t the most committed or nostalgic rig and also sort of “masks” intent. You do still get to keep your cool factor up with one of these on your back because, to a casual observer, there’s absolutely no indication that you’re on your way to a picnic. That can work for you or against you (a woman loves a man who isn’t afraid to let his macho down a bit now and again). It does, however, offer convenient hands-free travel and a good picnic backpack can be a real life saver on a picnic that requires an extended hike to reach to perfect scenic overlook for your romantic dining. Again, buying a picnic backpack for 3 or 4 when it’s just the two of you going serves as a subtle hint that you’re planning for a day when your family will grow.
Having decided on what you want to carry your stuff in, give some serious thought to your destination. If you’re the typical guy (don’t care what you scratch, where you scratch it or who sees you scratching it) then this is a chance to get out of character a bit. Make this something special. You might want to consider an open air concert at a local park. Search online or call your local park service to find a schedule of events in your area. Don’t be afraid to do a little traveling for the perfect spot. The only real limitation on distance is the freshness of the food you’ve packed. If your sandwiches will become soggy or your chocolate-covered strawberries will melt, it’s too far away.
Next, consider the foods you’ll be bringing. This is NOT a time for bologna sandwiches. I’m going to say that again. NO bologna sandwiches (unless your gal thinks they’re the greatest food ever made). This is a chance to spice things up with some food that at least appears to take a little effort. You want to delight her and her taste buds.
Now few of us are culinary experts so you’ll be forgiven for that, but consider picking up a recipe book to guide you here. Perfect for your consideration and available in our store are Picnics: Easy Recipes for the Best Alfresco Foods by Robin Vitetta-Miller and one that might serve you well at your next tailgate, Picnics & Tailgates: Good Food for the Great Outdoors by Diane Rossen Worthington, Chris Shorten and Time-Life Books.
If you plan to bring wine (and why wouldn’t you) you may also want to pick up a book (we reference several from advanced to beginner in our picnic supply store) or consult with somebody experienced in the enological world - fancy word for wine-related-stuff. If you aren’t regular wine drinkers, though, I’d recommend sampling several varieties in advance of your outing so you can settle on a wine you’re both fond of.
We’re almost done, so stay with me. The last two items to cover are extras and something special. When I say extras, I mean important touches that can make or break your event. A picnic blanket is a definite must-have item, but you may also want to pack cloth rather than paper napkins for a nice touch. Also bring along some insect repellent and sunscreen. Wet-naps for cleaning up are a pleasant edition and, don’t forget the corkscrew or that bottle of wine was just needless weight to lug around. I suggest making a list in advance and checking things off as you pack so there are not unpleasant surprises when your reach your destination.
As for the special item, this one is entirely up to you. Your girl will already be floored by the effort you’ve put in getting this all together. But to put icing on the cake, why not have a little something special secreted away in your basket or backpack? This can be anything from a piece of jewelry to commemorate the occasion to a poem (for you Casanova’s out there). You might even try your hand at baking a homemade desert. Just be sure to let her see the 3rd degree burns on your fingers as proof you actually baked it. If you’d like a recommendation for some tempting tarts (no, I’m not suggesting extra women for your trip) we’d recommend Tarts: 40 Superb Recipes for Sweet and Savory Tarts. A cherry on top of a great and thoughtful day like you’re planning can really wrap things up perfectly.
And that’s it, guys. I know it’s a probably a big deviation from your norm, but taking your girl on a romantic picnic can be the kind of defining, special treat that carries good will for month. She’s put up with all your man stuff this long, right? Clearly she’s worth it. Just don’t make the mistake of reading this, thinking it’s a good idea and then failing on the follow-through. Start planning today. In fact, commit yourself by purchasing your picnic supplies now so you won’t be inclined to forget later. Have fun!
Tags: men, picnic supplies, picnic supply, romance, romantic, romantic picnic ideas for men
Leave a Reply