Forget Happy Hour, Picnics are the Family-Friendly Adult Gathering

For the mother that loves to entertain but finds herself attracted more and more to an easy going plan that includes her little ones, Alicia Lund has the answer: picnics. The blogger behind Cheetah is the New Black planned an intimate picnic during a trip with her husband at the Four Seasons The Biltmore Santa Barbara. This casual soirée was filled with dreamy Southern California neutrals, wine and cheese. The best part? Her baby boy Rex enjoyed the on-the-floor fun with his toys and picnic treats. 

Alicia Lund spills all the effortless details that made her family picnic a parent's happy hour heaven. From the appetizers to the vintage glassware to the lounge ware, it's time to embrace picnic season. 

Photography + Words by Alicia Lund of Cheetah is the New Black

 

 

Hey there, Alicia! Tell us a little bit about yourself. 

Hello! I write Cheetah is the New Black–a fashion and lifestyle site I started in my early 20's that has grown with me over the years and has taken me on many different paths! I share snippets of my personal style, home decor, life and motherhood journey (I have a baby boy named Rex who is now 9 months) and travel with my dedicated readers. I'm Northern California based, currently living in Sacramento but bounce between Sacramento and San Francisco. I'm a city girl. I love to read (when I can find time now). I love to entertain just for the excuse to gather my favorite people. And fall is my favorite season of all! 

 

 

What prompted your picnic?

We were in Santa Barbara for a few days and planned a picnic for some quality hang time with my sweet friend, Samantha (Blogger and Founder of Could I Have That?). We met years ago thanks to blogging and she's now one my most favorite people and style muses!  

 

What is your favorite part about gathering with friends?

I've learned picnicking is probably the easiest way to enjoy happy hour with babies. Anytime I can just throw a blanket down and pop open a bottle of wine and some snacks I'm all about it. I also love how casual and comfortable a picnic is!  

 

 

What are some of your favorite picnic snacks? 

Cheese is my main indulgence and a picnic mainstay. Fresh fruits and veggies, anything seasonal is always a must.

 

Being a new mother, any "must-haves" you recommend during your picnic? 

Toys and snacks for Rex. He loves berries and avocado. Always make sure to bring along plenty of your little one's faves and plenty of picnic blankets so they have ample room to crawl. 

 

 

Credits: 

Photography + Words by Alicia Lund of Cheetah is the New Black