Happy National Picnic Month

July has been labelled National Picnic Month.  I love a picnic.  I think there’s nothing better than finding a space in the country or at the beach where you can sit and enjoy a beautiful view whilst eating.  Food tastes better and it’s so relaxing.  

Did you know the origins of the word ‘Picnic’ can be traced back to the seventeenth century  French word ‘pique-nique’ which described a group of people dining in restaurants who brought their own wine.  This then lead to a picnic being a meal where everyone brought something to share.
Is wasn't until the mid 1800’s that the picnic became a common English word.  Poems were written romanticising them, they became fashionable.  Fortnum and Mason claim to have invented the Scotch Egg, specifically for picnics, something that is still taken to this day.  Pasties and pork pies had been around before then, but they were ideal to take.

The Victorian era saw a surge in picnicking.  With the social season revolving around events which were made for long lunches outdoors: Henley Regatta, Glynebourne, Epson, Goodwood, and garden parties. Picnic blankets were placed on the ground to protect from the damp grass and picnic baskets were brimming delicious food and drinks.   It was as boom time for Fortnum and Mason with their now famous luxury hampers being the accessory to be seen with.  
Now a picnic can be as simple as a snack bar taken during a short break on a  walk.  Or a long lazy sunny afternoon with friends and family all chipping in and playing games.  Bliss.
Let's hope the weather has got the memo that July is National Picnic month and it sends the sun out to play.  
The Perch range is made for picnicking, from the Pixy and Pocket for one, to the Poly for two sharing and the larger Picnic mats for families.  There’s a perch for all occasions.
Whatever you do and wherever you go for your picnic, stay safe and Happy Perching!
Ruth x