8 Knockout Picnic Wedding Reception Ideas You’ll Be Seeing Everywhere

And just like that, summer is finally approaching! If you’ve felt like these warm months were taking forever to come—same. We were ready to throw our knits into storage since the holiday festivities were over, TBH. What’s one of the most wonderful things that we look forward to when the summer months arrive? Picnic weddings, of course. If the sun’s out, we’re out. And if you’re an outdoorsy couple hosting your nuptials this summer, nothing beats a dreamy picnic reception. They are the perfect blank canvas to let your inner creative designer flare. If you’re looking for some breathtaking ideas, TikTok has a bunch of ridiculously good steal-worthy picnic wedding reception ideas we found that are *actually* worthy of you. 

Parasols. Parasols. Parasols!

Looking to add a touch of whimsy and shade to your picnic wedding? Parasols have re-entered the chat and are a creative and classy way to shield guests from midday rays. Not to mention their flawless, Bridgerton-inspired finish as they blend in with your wedding decor. If you’re all about thoughtful details, you’ll love the classy ones with embroidery and lace. We must say, the fabulous Bridgerton parties, with their charming parasols and drop-dead gorgeous pastel colors, have definitely had a powerful influence on outdoor picnic affairs this season, leaving the Ton abuzz. Dearest Readers, don’t take our word for it. We’ve heard it from Lady Whistledown herself. Heed her decree with haste. 

Opt for paper parasols if you’re looking for a thoughtful welcome gift (not to mention, a useful wedding favor) for your guests. Another bonus: just think of the deadly combination of sunny and shadow-filled photoshoots! Can you imagine how good they’ll look on the ‘gram? You have to admit– they’re simply just a jaw-dropping prop for some unforgettable photos. Purist perfection. You’re welcome.

Behold: Nature Ring Boxes

Themed ring boxes are one of the latest trends that we are absolutely LOVING! We love outdoorsy stylized ring boxes because they can take on so many different designs. Incorporate grassy, flowery elements for a forest picnic wedding, or shell-based decorations for a beach picnic location. From rustic-inspired styling, vintage country chic, sophisticated flower elegance, and vintage charm, the personalizable options to suit your fab tastes are endless. They’re our new fave for a reason. Genius, no?

Dramatic Nature Focal Points as the Centre of Attention

Hot take: Dramatic nature backgrounds are vastly underrated. It honestly makes us wonder why there aren’t more picnic weddings at dramatic nature points. This is a missed opportunity, people! Forget throwing a romantic affair at your local park. Let nature do its magic by centring your picnic wedding around an impressive focal point. It could be a refreshing waterfall or riverbank, a mountain near and dear to your heart, a particular beach or cliff, or your nana’s pristine rose-filled garden. Go all out. Anything goes, but it’ll provide an uh-mazing, meaningful backdrop for your picnic wedding with very little effort on your part. Win-win-win.

Nothing Like a Bit of Palette Inspiration Drawn From Nature

Throwing your big day on a cliff? Use stunning nude palettes and terracotta plates. In a rainforest? Decorate your tables with ample, earthy greenery. In a  garden? Add wooden accents, rattan chargers, and fringe napkins. Splash light blues and sandy yellows to suit a seaside or beach venue. We adore the idea of decorations that mimic the natural colors and textures around us. Trust us, they’ll effortlessly bring your vision to life. We’re just saying– working natural materials into your wedding will keep the overall look picturesque and magical. Need we say more?

Themed Food Stations Are Always a 10/10

If you ever thought wedding food was a bore, you clearly haven’t met themed picnic food stations. Think: a pretzel bar to “tie the knot”, a s’mores station, or the classic tried-and-true favorite, a DIY taco bar for guests to make their own tacos because who wouldn’t want that? Oh my! We’re drooling just thinking about them. These themed food stations will guarantee your wedding bar to be a conversation starter for years to come, IOHO (in our honest opinion). And besides, everything just tastes better when you eat in the fresh air (or at least, in our humble opinion). Bon appetit!

Repeat After Us: Lawn Games Are The Best Picnic Entertainment

Nothing screams picnics more than some lawn games– we’re instantly obsessed! I mean, we might as well consider a classic game or two a picnic wedding reception staple at this point. From giant, life-sized Jenga and Connect Four to croquet and cornhole, there are endless options to choose from. Prepare for all the compliments (because really–who doesn’t like good wedding entertainment?). You won’t regret it. Don’t believe us? Check out the ~ extra cute ~ background games of this couple’s bohemian-style wedding. *Immediately clicks add to cart*

FYI, Cozy Seating Areas Are Always Here To Stay

All. Cozy. Everything. And we’re so here for it. Whether it’s a set of vintage sofas or a collection of picnic blankets and cushions, having plenty of seating options will encourage your guests to kick back and enjoy the day. Comfy can do no wrong, and blankets are no exception. The best part? They’ll allow your guests to snuggle up as they witness you tie the knot. We honestly can’t decide which idea we love more: seating guests on comfy blankets with pillows or a gorg tablescape to let guests choose their spot! Feeling indecisive? We suggest plush lounge furniture for a more elevated aesthetic, wooden benches for rustic events, or carpets and ottomans for low-key affairs.

Cue The Classic Twinkling Lights

Who says picnic weddings need to happen during the day? Once the sun starts to set, you’ll want to illuminate the space with adequate lighting for eye-catching aesthetics. And sometimes, that nighttime decor is best when it’s simple and straightforward, y’know? Take, for instance, twinkling lights. They’re an instant head-turner and THE decor to have for your night picnic wedding. Tie them to poles or hang them from trees. Not only will they cast a warm glow over your evening, but they’ll also create a cozy and intimate ~ aesthetic ~ as the sun sets.

So, so good, right?! Told ya. It’s a yes for all of them, we know. Regardless of how you adorn your reception and where you decide to celebrate, picnic receptions create an inviting ambiance for guests to mix and mingle and a dreamy way for you to say “I do!”. Everyone at your party will be asking about the decor– that’s a promise! Oh! And now that you’re finishing up your picnic reception planning, be sure to check our Fab Nighttime Outdoor Wedding Ideas From TikTok to make sure you’ve got everything you need to continue the affair through the sunset and into the night sky.