[ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN UR CHICAGO FEATURES SECTION May, 2008]
You’ve got three months (if you’re lucky) to celebrate the joys of a Chicago summer. Squeezing every bit of that weather into your life might involve you doing something that tends to go unappreciated – like a good picnic. Now, I know what you’re saying: “Picnics? Really? Aren’t those a lot of work and all the same?” Nope. Much like personalities, picnics can be vastly unique. Whether you’re eco-savvy, design hound, or a true traditionalist, there are picnic accessories for every personal style.
The “Green” Picnic
Definition: You’re a tree huger sans the actual hugging of trees.
Let’s start at the core: The basket. Or in this case, try Karim Rashid’s designer 100% recycled plastic “Garbino” container (www.umbra.com, $6.50). Next, You’ll need utensils. The Earth-friendly 100% recycled adorable green plastic dish-wear made by Preserve (Whole Foods, 1000 W. North Ave., $3.99-5.99) will add a punch of color to the set-up. Avoid grass stains and relax on something naturally cozy like a blanket from Kravetgreen.com, created from post-consumer fibers and recycled products (See website for variety of price ranges).
The “Modern” Picnic
Definition: Your life mirrors that of a Dwell magazine spread – all chic design, all the time. Your basket needs to make the first statement. The Egyptian-made black Rubber Tote allows form and function to merge into an ideal picnic carrying case (Design Within Reach, 10 E. Ohio Ave., $75.00). When you’re ready to snack try the edgy five piece Zueg Flatware ($100.00), and the minimalist-inspired drinking cups by Katje Hoeltermann that keeps liquids at original temperatures ($92.00 for set of two), both available at Stitch (1723 N. Damen). You’re also going to need to keep your white wine chilled and nothing will do the job better than the stylish Built NY Tote (The Gourmet Grape Inc., 3530 N. Halsted St., $14.49-18.99). Spend the entire experience resting on a cozy and design-friendly hand weaved Tessuto throw (CB2, 3757 N., Lincoln Ave., $39.95).
The “Classic” Picnic
Definition: You’re old-school style with a Martha Stewart flair.
Plain and simple, your basket is either wicker or woven. Try the charming Bound Willow Wicker Basket (Cost Plus World Market, 1623 N. Sheffield Ave., Small-$19.99 Large-$24.99) to carry your goods. Cut your Brie in elegance using the Maple Cheese Board ($29.99) and Stainless Steel Cheese Knives ($19.99) from Pastoral (2945 N. Broadway St.). Enjoy some bubbly in the chic “Mami” champagne flutes from Alessi (611 N. State St., $21.00) and keep it fresh using the 18/10 stainless steel Anna Sparkling Champagne Stopper ($49.50, also Alessi). Set the moment upon a casual Hutton Stripe Picnic Blanket (Crate and Barrel, 646 N. Michigan Ave., $29.95).
