Whether you're planning Sunday brunch on the patio or throwing together a casual picnic in the grass, you can pull out all the stops without breaking the bank. So raid your cabinets -— and even the recycling bin — and have some fun alfresco.
Bowled Over
Ceramic ice cream bowls become impromptu vases at each place setting with a bit of water and a floating bloom.
Take The Cake
Who says cake stands are just for baked goods? Adding a candle and some fresh fruit makes for a mouthwatering centerpiece that's edible too (pop a few flowers in for extra credit).
Ground Rules
A bit of construction paper, some toothpicks and even a silverware caddy can turn a blanket on the ground into a bona fide picnic. A small paperweight, like a vintage wood-block letter, becomes a personalized "monogram" while keeping napkins from blowing in the wind.
Be Caddy
A mixing bowl, tin bucket, or even a utensil caddy easily becomes a convenient beverage cooler with a few inches of ice and some refreshing cans of fizzy stuff.
Gouda To Know
Toothpicks paired with flowers and leaves cut from construction paper create charming little cheese labels with sweet style to spare.
Sources: Picnic blanket, $58, from Williams & Sherrill; polka-dot plates and napkin holder, both $9, from Confetti; tablecloth, $17, and utensil caddy, $10, from Target.
