Is it just me, or does your desire to spend every waking minute outdoors increase tenfold as soon as the temperature creeps up over 70 degrees?
Dinner inside or dining alfresco? No-brainer. Alfresco, always. A movie night on the couch or a stroll around the neighborhood? The evening walk wins – hands down. I could keep going, but I think you catch my drift.
I’m a firm believer that sunshine is good for the soul and what better way to celebrate than with a picnic in the park?
HP recently challenged me to #BendTheRules after watching the HP x360 ‘Behind The Scenes’ video. Inspired by the whimsical colors in Paper Fashion’s artwork, I linked up with my good friend Shanley, from Eat it Kansas City, to create a delicious, brightly colored spread that will have you itching to get to the nearest park for a picnic of your own this upcoming weekend.
WHAT TO NOSH ON (for all you Kansas Citians)
We bent the rules and opted to pick up our picnic eats from a few of our Kansas City favorites, opposed to whipping up something from home. Sweet treats from Natasha’s Mulberry & Mott, a six pack of Boulevard Wheat Beer and a sandwich from Bella Napoli – the gang was all there for the special occasion! Shanley never lets me down when it comes to finding the best eats and drinks in the area.
Not local? No problem! Simply add your bites & sips of choice (along with the essentials below) and you’re set!
NON-PERISHABLE PICKS
By now, we’re all aware that no picnic is complete without a towel/blanket to spread out on, as well as a tote to haul the goods in. But the not-so-obvious (a wireless speaker) completely slipped my mind last weekend and no picnic is complete without good tunes! I was determined not to make the same mistake twice and turned around to grab our music maker for Monday afternoon’s outing.
SHOP PICNIC ESSENTIALS:
WHAT TO WEAR
Comfort is key, but let’s be honest, when is it not? My favorites include shorts you can move in, an easy pair of slip ons and a light top. I’ve mentioned this before, but I’m super cautious while out in the sun, so a panama hat and shades are mandatory!
SHOP MY PICKS FOR PICNIC STYLE:
Panama Hat // Sunglasses // Rose Gold Sandals // Silver Sandals
And there you have it, picnicking made easy.
HOW DO YOU LIKE TO BEND THE RULES IN LIFE?
This post is sponsored by HP. Thank you for supporting the brands that make 26 and Not Counting a happenin’ place to be! Photos taken by Shanley of Eat it Kansas City (she’s also sharing her 5 tips on creating the perfect picnic today – check it out here!)
You put my picnics to shame! I love the bright blanket that you guys are sitting on – so pretty! xo, Biana –BlovedBoston
Outdoors does win hands down especially when you can find a great KS sunset? Recommendations for KC locations with a great end of day view?
That’s a great question! I actually live on the Missouri side, which makes it a little harder. But I don’t think you can go wrong wrapping up an evening on the lawn at the Liberty Memorial 🙂 I’ve been meaning to get out to Shawnee Mission Park for a sunset. I’ll report back!
I’m coming to your next picnic! Looks amazing and way to bend the rules girl!! 🙂
Such a great post! It got me excited for warmer weather and picnics. Looks like you had a lot of fun!
~Samantha
http://goldcoastgirlblog.com
This looks like a beautiful picnic!! Love it! Where did you get those koozies? They’re awesome!!
Thank ya, ma’am! Shanley got it from Raygun! Here is a link 🙂 http://raygunsite.com/products/i-shuttlecock-kc-koozie-1
That blanket just made my day! Just found your blog and will definitely be back. Love finding other twenty-somethings 🙂
http://DisforDreamer.com
That makes me so happy to hear! See you back here soon 😉
A picnic sounds so fun, and yours looks amazing!
xo,
Angela
A picnic sounds so fun, and yours looks amazing!!
xo,
Angela
What a beautiful picnic and a beautiful setting! I love a good picnic in the park on a beautiful spring day! xo
Thank ya! I owe most of it to Shanley 😉
Such a cute picnic! That sandwich looks phenomenal also and is making me so hungry haha!
xx,
Susie
http://www.SequinsandStrawberries.com
I’m with you- warm temps=I-want-to-move-outside! Your picnic looks amazing! I’m coming to the next one, k? K!
Oh my gosh, this is so stinking cute! I want to picnic with you! xx
You know where to find us 😉
I love these pictures! I really want an outdoor picnic ASAP!
Adding this to my list of places to try!
Annica
http://www.lifemodifier.com
So cute and fun! I’m the same way! I love being outside…until it gets humid 🙂
Looks like such a fun picnic! I agree, being outside is the best. I sometimes make my husband in our yard in our sleeping bags to watch the stars if it’s a chilly night!
seeshopeatdo.com
Such a perfect setting down to the smallest details!
Red Reticule | Red Reticule Collection
So many bright colors — love it! I really need to make a trip to KC one of these days. I’m marking my calendar for the next Go Blog Social 😉
xo,
Natalie | CincinNatalie
P.S. – Those sunnies are literally $9?! I’ve been on the hunt for a knock of pair of Karen Walker’s and those are SPOT. ON. Thank you!
I want to go on a picnic so bad now.
This picnic is making me want a sandwich, beer and sun asap! love it!
First off, I love this post Jess! You’re totally right – once summer rolls around I try to spend as much time as possible outside! As for how I would bend the rules… hmm Friday’s off forever…?!?
Thank you!! Who can we contact to make that a thing?! haha
This looks like so much fun. Downtown Napa does weekly music in the park all summer, one of my favorite weekly rituals, I’m sure that justifies the need for new picnic gear. I love the Fuji Camera – such a summer necessity! Happy Summer.
xoxo
Katie
beyondtheclothing.com
Totally justified!