Friday, April 18, 2025

You want me to bring WHAT??

I know, I know...... it's a lot to ask.  

Bring your table, bring your chair, convince your friend to dress in white.  For real?




        


        Yes, for real.  

























Your participation defines this special evening where Austinites gather together in one of our fair city's most beautiful locations for a magical dinner party.  I know how fascinating you are and since everyone brings a friend you are sure to meet someone new and fabulous!  And trust me, the Pique-Nique always impresses.  Your guest will be so happy you invited him or her. 
Please DO RSVP by April 21st 



Don't let the prospect of having to do a little leg-work put you off.  Consider that once you figure out what table you'll use, you won't have to go through the exercise next year.  And you WILL want to do it again next year.  


And did I mention the fabulous prizes for those who are externally motivated?  If you really throw down, you could win a major award:

  • le prix du duc/de la duchesse is given for the best attire
  • le prix du comte/de la comtesse is given for the best decor
  • le prix du marquis/de la marquise is given for the best meal
  • le prix du chevalier/de la chevalière is given for the best newcomer effort! 




  • And of course the award is accompanied by a special surprise!  
















    I mean, you could go all out like these folks. 
     





    But really, it's not necessary. 
                                   
                        ..... But don't let me stop you either!!


    Besides, haven't you always wanted to be part of a flash-mob?  But one that doesn't require you to dance or sing but rather, do something that we are all good at?  Like going to a dinner-party?
    And in case you are not motivated by promises of prizes, here are a few more photos to inspire you.

    Pique-Nique at Castle Hill


    Pique-Nique at Mayfield Park



    Pique-Nique at the Capitol


    Pique-Nique at Sand Beach



    Pique-Nique at Zilker Park



    Pique-Nique at Zilker Clubhouse 



    Pique-Nique at the Overlook in West Austin Park











    Tables and Chairs??

    This is not a cause for stress.  Here are some helpful hints and resources:

    The best tables and chairs are the kind that you borrow!  Someone you know has a card table or a folding banquet table in their closet or garage.  You probably want one that's between 30" and 34' wide.  We push all the tables together to form really long ones so it rmust be square or rectangular.  
    One like this?


    Or if you are coming with another couple something like this?  In fact, dividing and conquering is KEY when it comes to the Pique-Nique!  You'll be really happy if you can organize with another couple or two and split up the logistics and the food, for example. 

    You want it to be about 30" wide so that all the tables will line up.  After a few of these, I invested in this one because it is LIGHT and stores easily.  See?

    Now THIS is cool!  If I didn't already have one, I think I might consider this one.


    These are the least expensive (and lightest) chairs I have found.  






    But any kind of folding chair is fine and no you don't have to spray paint them white.  Just please don't bring those nylon chairs that you take to your kid's soccer game.  


    But again - beg, borrow and steal them if you can!  And check out these clever ways to wheel your gear to the pique-nique!

    Monday, April 7, 2025

    What do I need for this thing anyway?

    Pique-Nique Checklist     


     RSVP to your hostess to be added to the WhatsApp Group! The location will be announced on the day of the Pique-Nique via the WhatsApp group.  It's also a great way to coordinate with other guests. Make sure to follow us on the socials...

       






    Assemble Chic White Attire!












    You can totally handle this!
    Gather:


    Pack Picnic Basket & Essentials: (All non-disposable) 

    • Centerpiece/Flowers
    • White Plates & Serveware
    • Wine Glasses (unbreakable is required for this site)
    • Cutting Boards & Utensils (bottle opener)
    • Storage Containers for the food
    • White Cloth Napkins
    • LED Candles/Votives. Everyone looks better by candlelight! (experience has taught us that LEDs are best)
    • Trash bag 


    Prepare and Procure:

    Gourmet/Comfort/Local/Whatever Meal
    Favorite Beverage (preferably in an unbreakable container)
    Water!