Apples are often overlooked in the fall- just skipped right over for the pumpkins and pumpkin spice- and they make the best theme when planning a get-together with friends or dinner for your family.  An apple picnic in the fall sounds perfect to me and was the inspiration behind this table setting idea and menu.  I set it up indoors, but the ideas could be easily used for an outdoor picnic, too!

The mini baskets with mini apples were one of my favorite details- I love picnic baskets and thought the miniature size was perfect for decorating or for a party favor.  Our dog, Blue, was especially happy about apples being at his level and really wanted to help with arranging them all for me.

I bought flowers at Trader Joe’s and used the small pink berries in the baskets with the apples.  They made such a pretty presentation, and I loved the navy and white gingham ribbon with the basket of apples.

To create the double bow, I tied a bow to the handle on the basket and then added another strip of ribbon to tie to the chair.

If you would rather have them on the table, they look super cute on top of each place setting. The mini baskets are versatile and pretty irresistible.  The miniature size makes them unique.  I love the idea of each guest taking home a mini basket of apples from a fall party!  Even if you are making this as a meal for your family, the mini apple baskets are fun to have for each person to enjoy during the week.

I added larger baskets of apples down the center of the table and filled in with greenery and flowers (all from Trader Joe’s).  It had a casual, relaxed feeling.

For fall, I also like adding in corn-on-the-cob nestled in the garland of greenery, flowers, and apples trailing down the center of the table. It adds an unexpected detail and gives the table a little bit of a rustic feel.

I also kept the serving part a little rustic and brought the food to the table.  The menu was easy and delicious ~

Buttermilk Baked Chicken, Farro Salad, Macaroni and Cheese, and Fried Apple Pies. (Recipe coming this week!)

Picnics call for easy drinks, and so I served Acqua Panna water and put the bottles right on the table.  If they are chilled, just be sure to place them on something that is waterproof so that the water doesn’t damage your table.  I usually use a wine carafe or a rustic cutting board. I also used green gingham paper placemats (from Loralee Lewis) on top of a white table cloth with a light green leafy scene.  I typically shy away from using a lot of brown even in the fall- but I do like the warmth of the baskets and the bamboo lined plates.   If you prefer more brown, you could add brown rattan chargers or wooden cutting boards in place of the white cutting boards I used.

Macaroni and cheese is always a hit for a home picnic.  I love that when you picnic in place right at home, the food is easy to keep warm and to serve!  Making the macaroni and cheese from scratch is a treat and is comfort in a big bowl!

My favorite was dessert- which is always my favorite, probably! These fried apple pies take time to make, but they also make the best surprise for your family or guests.  My daughter was especially thrilled about these- and as you can see, I piled them high on a cutting board lined with blue and white gingham napkins.  A heavy dusting of powdered sugar finished them off and then I added whole apples to the board for those who might rather have a healthy dessert option.

I love the ease of decorating the table in a picnic style- it is very casual and makes for a relaxed time around the table.  Adding in good food that isn’t too fussy (I’m talking to you apple pies), and easy to prepare ahead makes it nice for everyone.

A non-traditional picnic right in your home makes for a simple way to serve your people- whether it’s your immediate family or a bigger crowd!  I am thinking a picnic night is in our near future followed with a Netflix show or a movie! What do you think? You know I love to hear what you like – what you would serve- how you picture the perfect indoor picnic!

Cheers,

Lydia xo