Galentines Luncheon

Give your guests the food they love

Sarah over at Flavorful Recipes has made heart-shaped sandwiches for a Galentine's Lunch and I loved the way the heart shaped sandwiches looked, but I wasn’t sure if my friends would like her ingredients. So I improvised and set up a sandwich bar with ingredients I knew everyone likes and let them build their own. It was so much fun I would do it again!

For drinks I offered pink lemonade, champagne, and limoncello and let them make their cocktails in martini glasses — another big hit.

How to set up the sandwich bar:

• Pick a main filling (I chose chicken salad; I also had tuna and crab just in case) but didn’t need them.

• Thinly slice lots of veggies and put them in heart shaped ramekins (peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, apples, chives, shallots).

• Offer creamy spreads like cucumber dip, cream cheese with chives, mashed avocados , and cranberry chutney.

• Put out small bowls of lettuce and spinach.

• Provide different breads and heart cookie cutters.

• Lay parchment on the counter and label items with pencil. Use fun descriptions to set the mood.

What went well:

The sandwich bar created a fun bonding experience. Everyone had fun sharing their creations and was excited to taste their creations

The cocktails were perfect. The lemonade was perfect for non-drinkers and everyone else had fun making different combinations

The table setting created a casual yet beautiful experience. The round table, candles, small bud vases was perfect and set the mood for fun conversations.

What needs work:

1. I didn’t love the way the sandwich bar looked. I think I’ll play with stations next time so people don’t have to wait to cut their bread.

2. I also think I’ll try different cutters just to add to the fun.

3. We had planned for crafts after lunch, but the sandwich bar was plenty and we never got to crafts. lol

4. There were lots of leftovers — maybe I’d have everyone make extra to bring home and maybe have takeout lunchboxes for them.

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DIY Cozy Table for Two

How to DIY your own cozy dining spot for two

As retirees we don’t always stick to eating meals at the dinner table. Most nights we are plopped in front of the TV catching up on our newest binge watch. lol So a nice alternative for us is to change it up and move to our morning meditation spot and turn it into a cozy dinner for two.

Here are some suggestions and links to help you DIY your own spot.

1. Cover your table with a tablecloth and it instantly begins the transformation. I used this one from Pottery Barn but any cotton or linen one will work.

2. Bring out the dishes and layer them on a rattan charger. I use my chargers year round. Don't be afraid to mix and match your plates. The trick is to keep the color scheme and don’t be afraid of different prints.

3. Use cloth napkins- I like these yellow cotton ones because they are a great price and wash well.

4. Keep the food hot and simple. This was a chicken pot pie I made from Costco’s roast chicken. I cheated and used pie crust and crescent rolls for the top. Next time I’m going to pile on the carbs by using stuffing on the top!

5. Add candles.. always candles. I usually use the battery operated ones.

6. I like to have blankets available and cozy slippers too.

7. Turn off the phones and tv and sit back and relax with your favorite person.

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How to create the best Anniversary

Recreate the feeling of when you first fell in love…

Of course we can set up an amazing anniversary celebration on the beach for you, but if you have more love than money, here’s how you can DIY and save enough money for a bit of sparkly.

1. Create a cozy niche. We use a lace teepee but you could also outline your blanket with battery operated string lights to create a visual nook.

2. Bring a comforter and comfy pillows. Take them from your couch and/or guest room bed. If you want to rate a cohesive color scheme buy inexpensive pillow covers. I love these velvet ones.

3. Use a large tray, bed tray, or a tray like this one that holds your stemware. Decorate with battery operated candles, and a bud vase with sweetheart roses (buy day old in your grocery store) and plastic stemware ( I say buy good ones that you can reuse for more special events you want to celebrate).

4. For food, keep it simple. Order sandwiches or go to the grocery store and buy fresh fruit and a ready-to-go charcuterie pack. When you get to the beach transfer them to a cake plate or something pretty.

5. Make a playlist with your favorite songs throughout your relationship and play on a small bluetooth speaker or just put your phone in a plastic cup.

6. Then sit back and relax with no distractions and let the rhythm of the ocean transport you back to when you first realized you were ment for each other.

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DIY Beach Wedding Vow Renewal

Speak your heart.

If you decide to renew your wedding vows and find that you have more love than money, then consider a DIY. Create the atmosphere by creating a heart using 100 tea lights. The trick to getting that perfect heart shape is to outline it with a stick before you start. As far as your vows, keep it simple and sincere. And maybe tuck a few tissues in your sleeve. Bring a bluetooth speaker to dance to your original wedding song or one that reflects your relationship now. Don’t worry about flowers, after your vows take a troll along the beach and pick up a shell to remember the day.

Of course, if you want to avoid the work of set up, we can help. Just let us know.

Top Five Items for Beach Breakfast Picnic

Small is Better

When you set up a luxury beach breakfast, it’s always best to use small serving pieces that work hard. Think of a basic breakfast with croissants, brie, bagels, cream cheese, yogurt, sweet bread, orange juice, coffee. That’s a lot of things to try to fit on a small table. Here are a few items I have found to be “beach tested” and gorgeous. Set your table with a plain white table cloth. White is always crisp and clean and perfect for your base. Let your food add the color.

1. Basket for yogurts. Place a small ice pack on the bottom and stack yogurts. Tie a pretty ribbon to add color

2. White melamine cake plate for croissants. This is my favorite. I also use this for sunset picnics with cheese and fruit. White is classic and although a little pricey, it is well worth it. Check Home Goods as well.

3. Donut holder. This was a game changer for my parties. It doesn’t take up any room and looks so adorable! Stack with small doilies between bagels and tie a pretty bow on top.

4. Three tier serving tray for fresh fruit. Love this one because it collapses for easy transport and the metal frame can be used facing left, right or centered. In the picture to the left, I pulled one dish out and used for sweet breads.

5. Small cooler for ice. I bought the one pictured at Target but it was seasonal. If you can’t find it try this one. Fill with ice and keep your OJ cool as well.

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Why most beach picnics fail

Don’t let the wind get you down

Whenever you plan a beach picnic you can pretty much count on wind. And if there’s no wind, then you better bring bug spray! Here are some quick tips to make sure your table doesn’t blow away.

1. Fill your vases with sand instead of water. Place stems in floral tubes then insert. If you have a large bouquet, wrap it with wet paper towels and foil then insert them.

2. Wrap your flatware with napkins or napkin ring and place on your plates.

3. Use balloon weights to hold down stemware

4. Use silver candle holders for tapers, tea light holders, and battery operated lights

5. Sometimes I also use decorative glass weights and they look gorgeous on the table as well

6. Bonus Tip: Leave your crackers in the cellophane package until last minute - the salt air will wilt them like crazy!

Luxury Picnic Checklist

Looking to host your own luxury beach picnic?
Here’s a checklist for you:

• Select a quiet beach; check tides, necessary permits; and plan for the golden hour

• Use low wooden table or polished tray tables and place pillows on beach towels

• Set table with melamine plates, cloth napkins, tablecloth/runner, Tritan stemware and lots of candles

• Keep the food simple with cheeses, fruit, nuts, crackers, bread with olive oil

• Drinks- check local ordinances about alcohol. Remember beaches don’t allow any glass

• Curate playlist and bring bluetooth speaker

• Pack bug spray, sunscreen, and additional blankets

• Bring garbage bag for a no trace cleanup

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How to create a luxury Galentine’s Day picnic

How to Create a Luxury Galentine’s Day Picnic

A Valentine’s Day picnic is a great reason to gather friends. Host it anywhere — if the beach is too cold, move it indoors. Cover the coffee table with a cloth, push couches back, and spread pillows to create the right vibe. Use a low table so it feels like a picnic, not a regular party.

Did you want to replicate this picnic? Here are some links to similar items we’ve used for the picnic to the left.

• Cupcake Boxes

• Pink and White Stripped Ribbon

• White Scalloped Paper Plates

• Pink and White Gauze Table Runners

• White Woven Placemats

• Pink Boho Gauze Napkins

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Four steps to create the perfect luxury beach picnic

We all live busy lives so if you are going to get together with your best friends, why not make it night to remember? These four easy steps will help you create a memorable experience for sure!

Step One: Visualize Decide the mood and purpose of the evening. Are you aiming for relaxed conversation, a photo-worthy celebration, or a romantic sunset for two? Choose a color palette and a few focal pieces (blanket or low table, cushions, a light centerpiece) to create a cohesive look without overthinking details. Pick a beach spot with easy parking and a comfortable sunset view, and check tide times and local rules. Consider the timing: arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset to set up and capture golden-hour light.

Step Two: Send invites Keep it simple and clear. Share the who, what, when, where, and any special notes (bring jackets, shoes for walking, or a small blanket). Use a group text, a quick email, or an event on your favorite app—include a map pin and a backup plan in case of bad weather. Ask guests to RSVP so you know numbers for seating and food. If the event has a theme or a color scheme, mention it so guests can coordinate if they want.

Step Three: Order food, consider having it delivered to the beach to save you time. Or if you’re making your own, choose food that travels and can be enjoyed at room temperature. Build a mix of flavors and textures: a main finger-food option (sandwiches, wraps, gourmet flatbreads), a variety of small bites (cheeses, charcuterie, olives, nuts), fresh fruit, and an easy dessert (cookies, brownies, or macarons). Include one or two crowd-pleasing special items—something a bit elevated, like a flavored hummus, marinated olives, or a signature sweet. Pack items in reusable containers or disposable trays for easy serving. Don’t forget beverages (sparkling water, a signature cocktail or mocktail, wine or canned cocktails) and enough ice or coolers to keep things chilled. Order ahead from a local deli, bakery, or catering service if you prefer not to prepare it yourself.

Step Four: Set the table and enjoy Arrive early to lay out your base: a large blanket or rug, cushions or low seating, and any tables or trays. Group food by type for easy grazing and place napkins, plates, utensils, and trash bags within reach. Add ambient touches—battery operated candles and string lights; shells or a small vase with seasonal flowers—to enhance the atmosphere without fuss. Keep music low and portable if desired. Once everything’s set, relax and be present: welcome guests, guide them to the setup, and let the evening flow. Take photos during golden hour, savor the food and conversation, and leave the beach as tidy as you found it.

If you’d like to replicate this picnic I’ve included links. FYI some are affiliate links.

Low Table and Tablecloth

This camping table is easy to carry because the top rolls up and fits in a carrying bag. Fits four nicely. Use a table cloth over it to dress it up if you want.

I like plain white tablecloths. They create a nice base and you can reuse with almost any color theme. This is 2 pack is very affordable.

Plates
If you are only gingerbread to do one picnic and never eat out on your patio then go ahead and get white plastic plates and dispose of them. But if you like to eat outside, consider buying a nice set of melamine plates. They look great and are dishwasher safe and will last you several seasons. I always go with white. They are versatile and will lend themselves to any theme by changing up napkins and flowers. I like these white beaded plates because they are classic.and you can pair any color salad plate to add color. The salad plates pictured are from Belks from last summer. They are on super sale until they are gone. I love all three sets!

But the trend for the wavy border is wonderful and if you are looking for those, try these will look great.

Stemware
Go with Tritan & BPA free (glass is a no noo on the beach). I like the stemware but if you prefer stemless, go with that. I use to buy Pottery Barn’s stemware but have switched over to this Amazon brand and never looked back.

Flatware
Flatware can take your picnic to another level. We use to use silver but now a days so many people don’t like the metal taste. Looking for a great set? This Wallace Hotel Lux is by far my favorite and it lasts!!!

If you prefer not to use flatware, this set is has everything you need to serve your food. It even includes labels for your cheeses!

Table Accessories

I use melamine cake plates, cupcake holders, anything that will add a little dimension to the table. If you are ordering food in containers try using a try level serving plate.

This pedestal stand is my go to.. It’s large enough to stack another one on top. I also use these metal stands to stack other alone. I always have my eyes open at Home Goods. The pretzels are in a little ginger jar vase. I bought a set of four and use them all the time for flowers, food and just a dab of color. They are porcelain but they are solid and don’t break like glassware.

Candles.
I have fallen in love with these candles from Amazon because you can see them in the daylight and they look fabulous after dark. I always used the pillar candles but they only came alive after dark and I always suggest picnics start at the golden hour. This set was a game changer!

Okay, I think that’s it. If you have any questions, feel free to email me and I’ll help you the best I can. Thanks- Nancy

How to avoid a disaster proposal story

When proposing to your significant other, you want the experience to be memorable and filled with joy. Nobody wants a disastrous proposal story they'll cringe at for years to come. To ensure your proposal goes smoothly and according to plan, consider the following tips:

1. Know Your Partner

Understanding your partner's preferences, personality, and comfort level is crucial. Pay attention to their likes and dislikes, as well as their comfort level with public displays of affection or attention. A proposal should reflect their personal taste and values. There’s nothing worse than planning a fantastic proposal in a very public space only to have your loved one feel mortified! Who should be there? Parents? Friends? Family?

2. Location, Location, Location

Choosing the right location for your proposal is vital. Consider places that hold sentimental value for you both or locations your partner has expressed interest in visiting. The place you first met, your favorite restaurant, a romantic sunset on the beach…

3. Timing is Key

Timing plays a significant role in a successful proposal. Choose a moment when your partner is relaxed and receptive to romantic gestures. Avoid proposing during stressful times, when emotions might be heightened, or when your partner is preoccupied with other important events.

4. Keep It Personal and Meaningful

Tailor your proposal to reflect your unique relationship. Incorporate personal touches, such as inside jokes or memories, into your proposal plan. This will show your partner the effort and thought you put into making the moment special and unforgettable.

5. Consider Practicalities

Ensure you have practical details covered to avoid unnecessary complications or worries. For example, have a contingency plan for bad weather, confirm reservations if needed, and ensure any special arrangements are coordinated in advance.

6. Enlist Support

If you're feeling overwhelmed, ask a picnic planner, trusted friends, or family members for advice and support. They can provide valuable insights or even help with logistic arrangements, making the proposal less stressful for you.

7. Engage a Photographer or Videographer

Having a professional capture the moment can be an excellent addition to the proposal. It allows you and your partner to relive the special moment and have high-quality images to cherish for a lifetime.

8. Manage Expectations

Although it's essential to put effort into planning your proposal, remember that perfection is not the goal. By managing expectations and grounding your plans in reality, you'll be better equipped to handle unexpected situations that may arise.

9. Relax and Enjoy the Moment

Lastly, remember to take a deep breath and enjoy the moment. It's natural to feel nervous or anxious, but try to remain present and focused on the love and commitment you're about to express. Let yourself savor the joy and excitement, knowing that you've done your best to create a beautiful and disaster-free proposal.

With careful planning and thoughtful execution, your proposal will be a memory you both cherish for a lifetime. to avoid a disaster proposal

Five Things to Consider for a Perfect Beach Proposal

Five Things to Do for a Perfect Beach Proposal

Thinking of popping the question and want to make it an unforgettable moment? Look no further than a beach proposal, where the breathtaking scenery and serene ambiance will set the stage for your perfect romantic gesture. Here are five things you can do to make your beach proposal a truly special and memorable experience.

1. Choose the Ideal Location

Selecting the perfect beach location is crucial for creating a romantic atmosphere. Research different beaches in advance to find one that suits your preferences. Consider factors such as privacy, scenic beauty, and accessibility. Whether it's a secluded cove with crystal-clear waters or a popular beach at sunset, choose a spot that resonates with both of you and holds significance in your relationship.

2. Timing is Everything

Timing plays a vital role in creating a magical ambiance for your proposal. Plan your proposal during a time when the beach is less crowded, such as early morning or sunset. These hours offer stunning natural lighting for photographs and a serene environment that will allow your heartfelt words to resonate without distractions. Factor in sunset or sunrise times, as they provide a romantic backdrop that will take your proposal to the next level.

3. Personalize the Moment

Tailor the proposal to reflect your unique love story and relationship. Consider incorporating elements that hold sentimental value, such as a favorite song, a shared memory, or a meaningful message in a bottle. Personal touches will not only make the moment more intimate but also showcase the thoughtfulness and effort you've put into planning this special event.

4. Capture the Memories

Engagements are moments to be cherished forever, so make sure to capture the memories in photographs or videos. Consider hiring a professional photographer to discreetly capture the proposal in all its glory. Alternatively, you can ask a close friend or family member to help capture the moment, allowing you to relive the joy and emotions of that day for years to come.

5. Celebrate and Relax

After the proposal, take time to celebrate your love and enjoy the moment on the beach. Consider bringing a small picnic with your favorite treats and champagne to toast your engagement. Remember not to use glass and check with local regulations regarding alcohol use on the beach. Take a walk along the shoreline, hand in hand, and let the tranquility of the ocean create a sense of peace and happiness. Remember to take a deep breath and soak in the blissful serenity around you.

By following these five tips, you can ensure that your beach proposal will be a truly unforgettable experience. The combination of a stunning beach backdrop, personalization, timing, and capturing the memories will set the stage for a perfect proposal. So grab your loved one's hand, head to the beach, and let the magic unfold as you embark on this new chapter of your lives together.

How to create a Cottage Core sunrise experience worthy of getting out of bed.

I’m a morning person, always have been. Yeah okay, I’m the one that drives you crazy with my singing the shower and incessant chattering over the breakfast table. But I love morning even before all of my singing or chatting. It’s my creative time and there’s nothing I love more than heading over to the beach with my sketchbook and pencils to watch the sunrise. For those of you who might need a little incentive to get going that early, here are my 9 tips for making the best Cottage Core Beach Sunrise Experience.

1. Scope out your spot in the daylight before you decide to see it at sunrise. It’s really dark at night and you don’t need to be bumping into things when you can’t see. Also make sure you bring a flashlight or one of those lights miners wear on their heads. They look nerdy but they keep your hands free to carry your stuff.

2. Pack a small quilt or blanket. If you are heading to the beach bring an extra beach towel. It’s easier to maneuver around the sand when you can sit on one blanket and put your food on another.

3. Bring at least two pillows. Leave that beach chair behind, you need to be grounded to the earth for the best sunrise experiences. I like at least one seat cushion to lean on and one to lean against. You want it cozy. I like to bring a velvet pillow… it’s sooo cozy.

4. Bring a small wooden or wicker tray, wooden tray or basket with flat top. A traditional picnic basket would be perfect as long as it has a wooden top that will hold you hot coffee (that’s coming up soon).

5. Food and drink… a simple croissant, muffin or donut is perfect. Add a little fresh fruit and steaming hot coffee or tea in a thermos. Add you milk, honey, sugar, etc. You don’t need to be carting extras if not necessary. Pack your food in reusable containers in honor of Mother Nature- she doesn’t like waking up to messes. : -)

6. You can use high quality melemine pates but don’t skimp on the cups. Use a nice pottery or china cup. Leave the Yeti to keep your beverage hot but for heavens sake, drink from a real cup. Trust me, it’ll make a difference. If you’re worried it will get cold, pour a small amount.

7. Fresh flowers…. keep it simple with a single stem from your garden or pick a few from that leftover bouquet you bought at the store. Bring a small vase and carry water in a water bottle.

8. Don’t forget the candles… I use small battery operated tea lights and small string lights to drape over my food. Don’t go crazy, you want to be able to sit back and enjoy the stars before the sun comes up.

9. Don’t forget your camera, sketchbook and pencils or markers. Voila… you are ready for the sun.

Fall in love with tall candles

I have always struggled with form over function, always. Luckily, or unluckily, my husband is ALL form and he is always willing to remind me if when I need to make a "form adjustment". I can't tell you the number of times I have set an absolutely gorgeous table only to have him remove the centerpiece when he sat down. Of course he was right. I mean, let's face it, people do need to see each other when the eat together. I hate to admit it, but sometimes there is a difference between Pinterest pretty and reality.

Last night we had two friends over for dinner and I think it was the best table I ever set. We have a fairly long dining room table so I used a smaller tablecloth to redefine the length. Then I placed two tall candle holders on either end to create a great atmosphere. I was so thrilled to be able to use tall candleholders for a dinner! Then I simply ran a leafy garland down the middle of the table, strung some battery operated string lights, placed a few votive candles and finished the look with some small glass pumpkins.

Quick Table Tips

- Feel free to use battery operated candles. Wax can ruin paint, spill on tables and burn small children (and adults who had a few too many wines).

- Look around the house for fun decorations to use for your tablescape. I had a collection of small glass pumpkins that I pulled out this time but I've used Beanie Babies, wooded toy animals, shells and even origami creations. Have fun with it.

- Mix and match dishes if you don't have enough. I only have four of these Stangle dishes. If I want to use them for a larger party I'll mix a set of yellow dishes with them. Be brave and blend!

- Put your spices from your spice rack for the table AFTER you snap your pictures. Hahaha.

- Be creative for serving dishes. I used a crystal sugar dish with a mini silver spoon to hold the parmesan cheese.

- Tuck paper napkins in with your cloth ones. If a meal is really messy, it makes your guests feel more comfortable to wipe their hands with paper.

- Be afraid of linen... be VERY afraid. Okay, so this tablecloth was a bear to iron but you know what? No one noticed! Don't get bogged down in the IG details that only show up in a picture. I turned down the lights and had the candles and fairly lights lit.... that's what they saw, not those impossible edges that only my sister could possible iron out! :-)

Well, that's about it. Hope you enjoyed this post. -Nancy

Nancy Dowd is the owner of Picnic in Paradise SC, a popup picnic and table styling company serving Murrells Inlet, Pawleys Island and Litchfield Beach areas of South Carolina.

Ten things to pack for the perfect sunrise beach picnic

The perfect sunrise picnic needs a little more than croissants and coffee, but not much more. You’ll be walking along the beach in the dark, so for safety’s sakes, keep it simple. Here’s my list of ten things you need for the perfect sunrise picnic.

1. A few small blankets. Drop one on the ground for the food and use two for sitting. I’ve tried using one big blanket but it was difficult to manage the sand. Smaller blankets are the way to go to keep your food sand free and allow you to shake the sitting towels if needed.

2. Pillows. Okay, I usually recommend beach chairs for beach picnics but for a sunrise breakfast, pillows are way better because you can sit back and cuddle while you are waiting for the sun to rise. Also, if it’s cooler, snuggling can enhance the heat factor. Bring at least four to lean on.

3. Candles. Battery operated fairy lights and votive candles are perfect. You can place them strategically around the food and pillows for a romantic feel. Don’t even think of real candles…they will not stay lit!

4. A small tray. You’ll need a place to hold your food and coffee cups, a tray will do that. Wood feels right on the beach, so consider using your charcuterie board or even better, a foldable bed tray table. If you’re bringing a picnic basket, you could use the top for your table.

5. Coffee and Croissants I bring a thermos for the coffee. (I also bring real mugs because it makes it feel special, but use what you like best.) Keep the food light and easy to eat - croissants, fresh fruit, donuts, bagels, energy bars, all work great. Stay away from anything too messy… dropped jelly on a sandy blanket is never a good thing.

6. Real plates. If you want to up your game a bit, bring two salad plates that match your style. Most beaches don’t allow glass so consider a high grade melamine or bamboo - anything except paper!

7. Cloth Napkins. You could use paper, but again, this is supposed to be “special” and nothing says special better than cloth napkins. Stay away from polyester- cotton and linen are the way to go. Don’t worry about ironing, just fold them flat out of the dryer and they’ll be fine. You might also pack some wipes, it

8. Flowers. Fresh flowers are amazing for a sunrise. Use a small bud vase that will fit on your tray. Buy a a bouquet of small flowers ahead of time and cut them to length. Wrap the stems in a wet paper towel then foil to keep them moist. Don’t forget to bring some water in a container.

9. Flashlight. It’s going to be dark so make sure you have a flashlight to get from your car to the beach.

10. Sunscreen and Bug Spray. Just in case… trust me, if you need them you will be glad you have them. Also throw in some baby powder- it’s a great way to get the sand off your feet before getting back in your car. Don’t forget a garbage bag for clean up.

Hope this has helped. Let me know how it worked out! -Nancy