More than a walk in the park: a new luxury picnic business offers upscale relaxation
There are add-ons ranging from picnic standards like food and drink, to games to play or canvases to paint, or more romantic options.
EAST GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan – As social life returns to a sense of pre-pandemic normalcy, some things persist. People found new hobbies and new ways to spend time away from others, and a new favorite for many was a picnic in the park.
Tara Buchanan saw this trend and is now trying to make picnics even more relaxing – at least for the people who book them. Founder of the Luxury Picnic Company, this is Buchanan’s third job, but she says she’s doing well.
“We’re busy, but it’s rewarding, it’s fun,†Buchanan says. “So it’s working for now.”
The only job someone has to do is make the reservation online, then introduce yourself and enjoy. Buchanan will have a picnic just about anywhere – parks around Grand Rapids, your own backyard, or even the shore of Lake Michigan.
“It’s nice to be around people, it’s been a long time since we’ve been able to do it,” Buchanan said. “If some people are hesitant, this is a great way to have a luxury experience like dining, but al fresco.”
Picnics start at $ 100 for two and increase in price and amenities. There are also add-ons ranging from picnic standards like food and drink, to games to play or canvases to paint, or slightly more romantic options, like rose petals or special proposition packages.
And of course, picnics are great for social media.
“It’s really rewarding to see them come in and take pictures because it’s such a great sight,†Buchanan says.
She says the response to her startup has been pretty much all positive, but she wasn’t expecting the amount of customers.
“It has been a bit overwhelming, even in the last few days I have received email notifications of reservation, reservation, reservation so it’s a lot but it’s good.”
Reservation is available until late summer, but Buchanan doesn’t plan to continue hosting picnics until the weather warms up in the spring.
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