Beach Hosting
It's mid-August. We've been cooped up for the last 5 months. We're craving connection, escape, and the chance to celebrate the little things. This summer, we're gathering al fresco not only because it's pleasant but also because it's safer. An intimate, covid-compliant picnic by a local shore can be transportational. A special menu and exciting visuals stimulate the senses.
Blue and white linens with seashell napkin rings. Picnic goods toted in a handwoven signature Chefanie basket bag and displayed as part of the centerpiece. Some garden hydrangeas. If you bring candles, make sure to cover them with hurricanes.
If it is specifically a s'mores picnic (bonfire), put each element onto its own plate above a pretty tablecloth. I stuck the s'mores sticks in the sand, so they would not fly away in the wind. Always best to do s'mores on the night of a full moon, so there is plenty of light.
My list of things to pack for s'mores on the beach:
Collapsible table
Metal bucket (for fire)
Plastic bucket (for water to put out fire)
Metal grates (if cooking anything other than s'mores)
Tablecloth
Napkins
3 bundles of wood
Water bottles
Rosé
Fire starter
S'mores ingredients
Everything should be as light and servable at room-temperature. For summer 2020, we are packaging everything individually to be safe. If you can give everyone a basket full of provisions, that creates a lovely experience.
"Cheeseboard In A Jar" : chunks of Parmigiano Reggiano, spears of Franche Comté, organic red seedless grapes, sesame breadsticks, and a sprig of rosemary for each guest at the picnic
This classic rock playlist feels pretty perfect.
