Luxury picnics are the newest trend going on. Whether you have a birthday party, date night, friend outing, or even if you just want to splurge on an experience, luxury picnics are the way to go! Think of your average picnic, and then put it on steroids, that’s what a luxury picnic is. These are gorgeous and aesthetic setups that take “picnicking” to another level. Lucky for us, the DMV area (DC, Maryland, and Virginia) is filled with plenty of luxury picnic businesses who are ready to give you the picnic of your dreams. I reached out to several of them and wanted to interview them to learn all about their business.
(Sidenote: These businesses are not organized in any specific order)
1. Picnic and Peonies
Location: DC, MD, VA, and NYC
What made you start a luxury picnic business?
The pandemic changed just about everything in our day-to-day lives. For me, the biggest change was time. As a former television producer and host, I had a crazy schedule traveling the world and working late nights. However, once I started working from home, spending countless hours on Zoom, and baking just about every dessert known to man, I knew I needed a new project to fill my time. Conveniently, I learned about the concept of luxury picnics during this period, where my mind ran wild with ideas. Picnic & Peonies came so natural to me – it’s a culmination of all my passions – entertaining, styling & decor, as well as building a small business.
What sort of things come with your most basic picnic package?
Picnic & Peonies provides the ultimate luxury picnic experience. Our most basic package comes with setup/breakdown, styling/decor, tables, rugs, glassware, plates, and flatware.
Are your picnics available all year long?
Yes! We can most definitely set up picnics indoors. In addition to our picnic-style seating, we also offer regular-style seating, which can sometimes be more comfortable during cooler months. However, if our clients already have seating available, we can execute or rent luxury tablescapes.
What would you say makes your business stand out from the others?
There are several reasons Picnic & Peonies stands out from other picnic companies. The first reason that comes to mind is our designs. The designs of our picnics are chic and high-end, where each detail is considered. Secondly, we have an incredibly large inventory which allows us accommodate all different styles and color-schemes. And, lastly, you have me – I have a very unique skillset that allows me to excel at not only picnicking, but building a small business.
What do you enjoy most about your business?
The best part of owning my business is helping my clients celebrate special moments during such an unsure time. I’ve had the honor of helping people safely enjoy micro-weddings, baby showers, anniversaries, birthdays – you name it!
2. Sutherland Styled Picnics
Location: VA, MD, and DC
What made you start a luxury picnic business?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset and a passion for event planning. Back in March, I was planning my best friend’s bridal shower and she wanted a luxury picnic. Rather than renting the equipment, this was the perfect opportunity to just buy my own inventory and start my business. That’s how Sutherland Styled Picnics came about and it’s been an amazing experience thus far!
What sort of things come with your most basic picnic package?
We have one standard package that includes table(s), large umbrella(s), blankets, pillows, table setting, table decor and complimentary charcuterie/drinks. We also offer add-ons such as a peacock chair, speakers, Polaroid camera/prints, glasses with a complimentary bottle of champagne and strawberry shortcakes in martini glasses.
Are your picnics available all year long?
Yes, our picnics are available all year round. Indoors or outdoors, we can make it happen!
What would you say makes your business stand out from the others?
I would say our attention to detail. We offer 5 different styles: Magnolia Blush, Sea Salt & Linen, Olive & Sage, Tuscan Spice and White Gardenia. Each style is unique in its own way. We want to give our clients a variety of different “themes” they can choose from whether it may be more of a “beachy” aesthetic, “greek and natural stone”, “cherry blossoms”, “moroccan and boho”, or “white and airy”. Our thought process is to keep it simple yet sophisticated for all our styles.
What do you enjoy most about your business?
Being a small business owner you have the freedom to explore and be as creative as you want. It’s awesome to come up with a concept, strategize, execute and see the vision come to life. It’s such a rewarding feeling to see my clients’ reactions when they arrive at their picnic setup and know that I helped create this memorable experience for them. It’s all worth it!
3. Lushnics Luxury Picnics
Location: DC, MD, VA, and more
What made you start a luxury picnic business?
I LOVE luxury and intimate events so this business was perfect. I actually started thinking about starting Lushnics in 2017 but did not do anything until late 2019. Picnics are just so inviting and perfect small, intimate gatherings. I love to make them look beautiful, whoever partakes in our picnics, I want them to feel luxurious.
What sort of things come with your most basic picnic package?
We don’t have basic picnics lol😊 💅 all of our picnics come with our low picnic table(s), pillows, rugs and/or blankets, candles, glasses, floral decor, charger plates, plates, napkins, etc.
Are your picnics available all year long?
Our picnics are all year (indoor and outdoor) we love to create picnics both indoors and outdoors.
What would you say makes your business stand out from the others?
I would say our business stands out because we love to create themes that may be a little out of the box. I love to create what speaks to me, whether it’s inspiration I see on the street, in a book or movie, or a song I listen to, I love to be inspired and create based on that inspiration.
What do you enjoy most about your business?
Wow, there are so many things I enjoy. I love to create, I love luxury, I love exploring new places and going on new adventures, I love making others feel special, feel loved, feel happy! I love picnics, the intimate moments I can create and clients trust me to make their experience special, that makes it all worth while. I love what I do. 💕
4. Hedera Luxury Picnics
Location: Richmond, VA
What made you start a luxury picnic business?
We started Hedera Luxury Picnics for multiple reasons! One of the main reasons is that each of us was born and raised in Richmond, VA and we’re extremely proud of that. Richmond has a lot to offer when it comes to food, art, and scenery- and the number of black owned businesses contributing to the magic of RVA has tremendously increased over the years. Hedera Luxury Picnics is a Black-Woman Owned business that offers a chance to celebrate your life’s biggest moments by combining everything that we love here- food, art, and scenery- practically anywhere with this beautiful city as your backdrop.
What sort of things come with your most basic picnic package?
The beauty of Hedera Luxury Picnics is that we offer so many different options even with the most basic packages. All of our clients have the opportunity to choose between a menu of food, drink, decor, and entertainment options. Our most basic package is called “The Minimalist” and that comes with:
Seating
Décor
Water Service
Charcuterie Board
Non-alcoholic Beverages
Set-up/Clean-up
Conversation Starters
Bluetooth speaker
Minimalist Color Scheme
Are your picnics available all year long?
Yes, our picnics are offered year-long. We are really looking forward to our Fall picnics because there’s nothing like Virginia in the Fall! In the colder months, we may not be outdoors as much, but we can set up your luxury picnic anywhere you’d like!
What would you say makes your business stand out from the others?
Hedera Luxury Picnics stands out from the others because we are truly a one-stop shop and we work very closely with our clients to bring every piece of their vision to life. Hedera offers packages for all budgets that include a range of decor, catering (provided by @kiss_z_chef), and entertainment options. Currently, there’s no other business offering that and especially not in the manner that Hedera does it.
What do you enjoy most about your business?
There’s so much to love about this work and I feel like what I love most changes from event to event- because everything is unique. But, if I had to choose, I’d say I love finding unique locations based on what our clients say they want and above all, I love seeing the reactions of guests as they arrive and see the set up for the first time. We should start capturing the first look on camera because it’s truly something special to witness!
5. Deco Picnics
Location: Northern Virginia
What made you start a luxury picnic business?
A recent 40th birthday trip to Dubai sparked an unforgettable desire for us to launch Deco Picnics. Because of COVID we were on a mission to create more connection and memories in a plush outdoor setting.
What sort of things come with your most basic picnic package?
Our Signature Picnics are the most popular way to celebrate any occasion, from 2-30+ guests. Setups include:
2-hour of picnicking, Styling of event, All picnic furniture
(oak tables, woven floor rugs, plush cushions, etc.),
All picnic accessories (candles, twinkle lighting, etc.), food covers, Sparkling or Still Water, Bluetooth speaker, Decorative accents, Floral arrangements, Plates, Flatware, Glasses and Printed place cards or custom messages
Are your picnics available all year long?
Yes, we host both outdoor and indoor picnics all year long. During the winter months, if a client requests an outdoor event, we’ll use heat lamps and heated tents 🙂
What would you say makes your business stand out from the others?
We are family owned and operate from a level of excellence and understands the power and importance of picnicking. Because we’ve traveled the world and experienced the most lavish picnics, we have a unique vantage point when it comes to picnic styling and handmade furniture our stylists use. Our dreamy tablescapes are just as much of a draw for design-savvy customers and no two picnics are ever the same. Our attention to detail is what our clients love most along with exceptional customer service. We stay connected to our clients and take the time to ensure that we make their event spectacular. Not just that… we absolutely love what we do!
What do you enjoy most about your business?
We enjoy the moment when our clients arrive at a picnic and experience the beauty created for them. We love wowing our clients and enjoy creating memorable moments that truly last a lifetime. We love how close it’s brought our family as well.
6. Pink and Pearl Picnics
Location: Alexandria, VA
What made you start a luxury picnic business?
I have always loved planning events and been the go-to person for out of the box ideas. Details are my jam and I truly find joy in creating memorable experiences for people. After the world was paralyzed from COVID-19, I was inspired to use my gift and find a way to (safely) bring folks back together. Luxury picnics are a reflection of my personality- creative, extra and fun!
What sort of things come with your most basic picnic package?
All Pink and Pearl Picnics include set-up, clean-up, thoughtful decor including beautiful fresh flowers, a delectable grazing board to share and bluetooth speaker for entertainment.
Are your picnics available all year long?
Yes! We are actually about to launch some fun ideas for the colder months, starting with Friendsgiving! We will come to you and set up a luxury picnic in your house or on a covered patio. This Friendsgiving luxury picnic experience will include all set-up, clean-up, beautiful seasonal decor AND 2 bottles of wine and 2 dozen macaron cookies from our favorite baker! We anticipate these packages to sell fast given the convenience of bringing the picnic experience to our clients. All that is needed is about 10 feet of open space and we will do the rest!
What would you say makes your business stand out from the others?
We are really focused on the client experience and putting the LUXE in their picnic in the park. You can see this through the high quality decor, thoughtful touches at each event and the end-to-end customer service. One of my favorite tasks is sourcing beautiful flowers for the tablescape and strolling the aisles of Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods for yummy treats for the grazing boards. We offer 3 different grazing board options that will satisfy any palette, and as an add-on package, we will go pick up carryout from select Old Town restaurants and have it ready at the picnic. We look forward to continuing to find ways to create events that are pretty like PINK and timeless like PEARL!
What do you enjoy most about your business?
I love to see the joy these picnic experiences offer to my clients. The response has been fulfilling to see, despite all the crazy things happening around us, people are able to take a pause and enjoy a unique experience in the park with those that mean the most to them.
On a personal level, this business has been a dream because I am able to include my little family along the way. My husband is the best operations manager around, if you book a picnic with me, you are guaranteed to see him lugging a table or two through the park. My 3 year old LOVES the opportunity to come set up or clean up a picnic with mommy as a chance to burn some energy in the park. I look forward to the day my 8-month baby girl can join in the fun too, but for now she is usually snoozing in her stroller while I bring the luxury experience to life!
7. LoveLe Picnics
Location: Falls Church, VA
What made you start a luxury picnic business?
I started a luxury picnic business as a side business to coincide with LoveLe Sweets which is my dessert/cake company. I was inspired by other companies I saw on Instagram and realized I didn’t see too many in the NOVA area (at the time, it’s a different story now!). I wanted to tie in both businesses to compliment each other and keep it all under one roof!
What sort of things come with your most basic picnic package?
Our packages all include a full table set up from picnic blanket/rug to glassware and plates. The packages are what you would need to have a sit down meal or relax under the shade/sun!
Are your picnics available all year long?
Our picnics are available all year long with options to set up inside and outside for the colder months.
What would you say makes your business stand out from the others?
I would say my business stands out with our custom desserts and charcuterie boards from our sister company, LoveLe Sweets. We don’t work with other vendors in that aspect, so when planning a picnic event, I’m able to help you design not only the space but food and desserts! I love being able to put together floral centerpieces so that is another add-on we’re able to do all in house. I feel like when working with one person to help plan the whole picnic, it makes it easier for the customer!
What do you enjoy most about your business?
I have a catering background and culinary degree so food is my passion! Event planning is a perk with working in catering for 15+ years and planning “mini” picnic events comes naturally. I enjoy being able to work with customers to plan these special moments with friends and family. I love that I’m able to intertwine my passion for desserts/cakes with table decorations, flowers, etc. It’s fun to be able to come up with something new every time!
8. Bella Al Fresco Luxury Picnics
Location: DC, MD, VA
What made you start a luxury picnic business?
I love creating special moments/memories for people. Picnics are such an intimate experience that people cherish forever and we’re so happy to be apart of that.
What sort of things come with your most basic picnic package?
- Luxury decor
- Throw pillows
- Bottle of San Pellegrino
- Game
- Take home Floral centerpiece
Are your picnics available all year long?
Yes absolutely! We don’t only set up outdoors but also set up indoors. We have such amazing things planned for this fall/winter.
What would you say makes your business stand out from the others?
We are so passionate about what we do that our love translates into our Set ups. We deliver extraordinary picnic experiences to our clients that they are always taken back by how beautiful and friendly we are.
What do you enjoy most about your business?
Creating memorable picnic experiences and meeting amazing people everyday.
9. InJoy
Location: DC, MD, and VA
What made you start a luxury picnic business?
With the support and encouragement of my husband, I started InJoy in February of 2021 after being laid off from my job of 9 years. Before working that job, I had a dream job, planning meetings and events across the country. While I loved that job, a tragic event occurred when my son passed away, and it really made me rethink my time away from my family. So, I ended up getting a desk job in a different industry. My love for event planning had always stayed with me, so when I was laid off, I saw this as an opportunity to fulfill my dreams.
With InJoy, I wanted to create a safe and hassle-free celebratory service for the DMV. This made it easy for me to do what I love and have my family be a part of it.
What sort of things come with your most basic picnic package?
Everyone receives luxury treatment with InJoy, so even our basic picnics include a custom-built wooden table, ceramic dinner, and salad plates, cutlery, cloth napkins, goblets or wine glasses, floral arrangements, table decor, cushions for seating, custom welcome sign, bug repellent, hand sanitizer, blue tooth speaker, set up and clean up.
Are your picnics available all year long?
Our picnics are offered all year round.
What would you say makes your business stand out from the others?
InJoy stands out from the rest of the picnic companies because we offer a real luxurious experience, and not only do we offer picnics, but we offer luxury weatherproof experiences with our igloos and glamping tents.
What do you enjoy most about your business?
I enjoy the entire process of my business, from planning to decorating and putting a smile on my client’s faces.
10. Ballureevents
Location: Nottingham, MD
What made you start a luxury picnic business?
I started my luxury picnic business because it was an idea that I saw online while planning a party for a friend, but I couldn’t find someone in my area that specializes in these types of parties. So I did a little Pinterest hunting and decided to plan the event myself. I had so much fun planning the party and I had dabbled in the home decor blogging land before so decorating and finding budget friendly luxury decor items has been my thing. So I decide hey why not launch my own luxury picnic planning business.
What sort of things come with your most basic picnic package?
I have plenty of packages to chose from like a date night package, movie night package, and a D.I.Y package. The DIY package cuts down the cost on my break down and set up fee. This is our most basic package which includes picnic style table, pillows, blankets, plating and utensils, wine glasses, ice bucket, and a speaker.
Are your picnics available all year long?
Yes, picnics can be hosted indoors and outdoors.
What would you say makes your business stand out from the others?
I think my business stands out from the rest because of my add on options and my party decor rentals. You can add an inflatable projector screen, a posh telephone box, a snack cart, even a Polaroid camera to most picnic packages. I’m always adding new inventory to add on to picnics or rental items alone. I also like to keep with the theme with my add on food options. I offer charcuterie boards and fancy dessert options like macaroons.
What do you enjoy most about your business?
I enjoy the decorating part of my business. I love to decorate and watching my ideas come to life is my absolute favorite part about my business and keeps my motivation up.
11. LePicnicPop
Location: DC, MD, and VA
What made you start a luxury picnic business?
Well, my mom and I have always had a passion for decor and DIY. We didn’t know how much we loved doing it and our skills until we had to decorate my wedding. I had a big wedding planned, but because of COVID I had to adjust and have a micro wedding instead. We made every single piece of decoration for it, it was truly magical when it came together. After the wedding, we knew we wanted to create the same magical experience for others and that’s how we came up with Le Picnic Pop.
What sort of things come with your most basic picnic package?
Our basic package includes a set up for two of a low handmade picnic table, placemats, charger plates, dinner plates, salad plates, silverware, cups, wine glass/champagne flutes, napkins, table runner, candles, candleholders, custom floral arrangement, rugs, blankets, assorted pillows, handmade pouf aka Le Pouf, Bluetooth speaker and polaroid camera + film. Add on options are also available!
Are your picnics available all year long?
Yes! We can set up picnics indoors. We have holiday themes available 🙂
What would you say makes your business stand out from the others?
Our picnics are unique to each client! We give the client the option to pick their vibe/style but not all picnics are going to be exactly the same. We always want to ensure each client has their own pop of magic and that is why we create a custom floral arrangement for each picnic.
What do you enjoy most about your business?
We enjoy all of it but mainly we love our clients reactions when they arrive at their picnic. Their reactions makes all the work SO worth it!
12. Simply Picnics DMV
Location: DC, MD, and VA
What made you start a luxury picnic business?
We decided to start a business because we wanted to be our own bosses and to work together to express ourselves creatively and create a memorable experience for people to cherish. As far as the idea of luxury picnics and events, we wanted a medley of creativity, expression, and romance/celebration and thought this idea was the perfect display of that!
What sort of things come with your most basic picnic package?
Our basic picnic package includes, 2 hours duration of picnic, personalized message board, set up/pack up, accessories and styling of picnic, Place settings for each guest for each guest, music during picnic, artificial flower arrangement(s), and board games!
Are your picnics available all year long?
Picnics are available all year – indoor/ outdoor locations are permitted as well. We also offer tablescape services and event decor which is also available year round!
What would you say makes your business stand out from the others?
What we believe makes our business stand out from others is we focus on details to make your occasion memorable so you don’t have to worry about a thing. We consider our picnic themes contemporary versus bohemian and our themes are customizable based on the client’s vision- whether it be combining multiple of our themes or adjusting to different celebrations, we will take care of it!
What do you enjoy most about your business?
What we enjoy most about our business is seeing our client’s reaction! We enjoy making people happy and if we can influence their day to be a bit better, that’s all we can ask for and in turn fills us with joy. Our clients and supporters inspire us to keep going!
*featured image is from @picnicandpeonies
What a fantastic idea! Every design looks more inviting than the other.
very romantic in my book
Author
I agree with you, these are truly romantic, a perfect date outing!
Wow I had no idea a picnic could look so lovely! Definitely worth looking into a glorious picnic.
This is so interesting! I’ve considered a luxury picnic for a date idea, so I loved reading about all these different companies, it’s definitely given me a better feel for it!
nice idea, and a very nice picnic, I love to go picnic with family only 🙂
Been dreaming to have a picnic one day… thanks for all the ideas! Very helpful
Author
So happy you loved it!
How fun, is never heard of these before. My daughter and her bestie are event planners, I will share this with them.
Author
This would be perfect for event planners!
This is such a great idea for gatherings, and you don’t have to think about the set up. Thank you for making the list, will check if we have it available in our area.
Author
I’m glad you found it helpful!
These are awesome and well-organized picnics. The one says midday to reconnect with besties is so cool
Author
I agree with you! I love the concept of these!
Your picnics are so pretty! It would make such a lovely gift
Author
I agree, the pictures from these businesses are gorgeous!
Wow, this is amazing! perfect idea for my daughter’s birthday. Thanks so much for the inspo.
Author
Glad you enjoyed it! I agree with you, I think it’s a lovely way to celebrate a birthday.
Wow this is really luxurious,can definitely do with one of these love it
Author
Yess, I love them!
Love this idea. I would of never thought of it
Author
Thank you so much!