Spring is literally in the air thanks to the California super bloom, leaving us dreaming of the outdoors to breath in the fresh (and slightly pollenated) air and to stop to smell the roses, wild mustard, and daisies. As temperatures rise to that perfect 75 and sunny, we were on the lookout for ways to, ahem, get out and gather with our besties, S.O.’s and families. As we completed our spring wish list, the Carlsbad flower fields began to bloom and our plans fell into place. 

The stunning rainbow of flowers produced by the 50 acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus inspired our afternoon in the fields of picnicking, frolicking and champagne-ing for our newest installment of #ThePicnicProject (remember when our Media Design Manager, Nathan, celebrated his birthday with a picnic overlooking Yosemite Valley?). After all, is there a more replicable, ‘wait, I can actually do this,’ grab-and-go gathering moment than a picnic? Load up your baskets, pack your blankets and don’t forget the bread and bubbly for the must-do experience of spring.  

*No flowers were harmed in the making of this picnic

Photography by Brogen Jessup

We're lightening up this season by favoring muted colors, breezy outfits, and easy picnic essentials such as fruit, baguettes, and champagne with our squad by our side. We set out to the fields with our good friend and photographer extraordinaire, Brogen Jessup, who captured the festivities on camera. The sun was shining as we embarked on our rainbow gathering overlooking the Pacific Ocean with our baskets filled to the brim with our chosen accoutrements. Bring it on, picnic season. 

Need some inspiration on where to take your next picnic? Here's 22 places across America that are certified post-up approved picnic spots.

So, you're feeling the picnic persuasion but want to do it right. Here's a short and easy how-to for your ultimate picnic project:

• Baskets, baskets, baskets. Carry your things in style with wicker baskets to achieve that kitschy, 1950's vibe.
• Blankets: Pack something large, soft and that can get a little dirty to sit and set up your spread on.
• Food + Drink: Whatever you want! Keep in mind that it needs to be something easy to assemble and eat with little preparation, utensils, and cleanup. Our favorites include breads, cheeses, fruit, and nuts with champagne or a good sangria. Who's hungry?
• Add ons: SPF, sunglasses, hats, and a portable music speaker to set the mood!

People pack up their things for a day of lounging on a blanket all the time so why #ThePicnicProject? It’s a way to connect people from across the globe partaking in the same activity and to get inspired along the way. The next time you get out pull out a blanket and munch on some goodies in a beautiful location, tag #ThePicnicProject to see how other people picnic and for a chance to be featured on The Venue Report.

Credits

Photography: Brogen Jessup