WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO LAUNCH PT PICNIC CO?
A life-long hostess, I started seriously considering getting into the event space in 2019. That year, I had the pleasure of designing my own wedding reception and the honor of coordinating the local hospital’s Volunteer Appreciation Event. I transitioned to hospitality as the manager of The Washington Hotel downtown in the fall of 2020 which gave me a lot of insight into how the pandemic was impacting folks. It seemed totally unique to each person. I believe in the power of having something to look forward to, so the idea of inventing a special occasion or celebrating a milestone, but in a way that felt safe and comfortable for all involved, really appealed to me. And PT Picnic Co. was born!
HOW DO YOU DECIDE ON THEMES AND CURATE FOR EVENTS?
I am typically inspired by one element, like a special set of plates, and let that be my guide. As for how and where I find my unique items, the answer is everywhere! I did not appreciate going to garage sales, thrift stores, or flea markets with my parents as a kid. But we went, and we went often. You could say it’s in my blood. I love the thrill of the hunt, the art of the haggle, and the rush of the score! I’m always searching for one-of-a-kind vintage treasures, exciting activities, and special decor.
WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR DESIGNS ADD TO THE EXPERIENCE?
The designs are what really make the experience! Al fresco dining is, in my opinion, sacred in all its forms. Setting up an elaborate tablescape can be tricky, especially if you’re visiting from out of town, and creating ambiance for yourself is challenging. Honestly, this is a service I wanted for myself. Women in particular are so often tasked with making magic for others, but a magic show is very different for the audience than it is for the people on stage. I wanted to create an experience where someone else makes the magic so you can enjoy the show.
WHAT IS THE TYPICAL PICNIC EXPERIENCE LIKE?
Booking is a breeze on my website. Guests select their date, time, theme, and select from an assortment of hand-picked locations. I have a range of add-ons, including table and yard games, tents, and poufs, but I love to surprise and delight guests by going above and beyond. We’ll keep in close contact and, on the event date, I’ll arrive with plenty of time to get everything picture perfect. I’ll drop a pin to our precise location about 30 minutes before the agreed upon start time. There’s a very brief hand-off and then guests are free to use our equipment for the duration of their experience! A curated basket of pre-packaged specialty foods is provided, but guests are encouraged to bring their own, too!
HOW DO YOU HOPE YOUR COUPLES LOOK BACK ON THEIR EXPERIENCE?
I hope they look back on it the way they look back on other really memorable occasions: fondly, grateful for their fortitude to make themselves a priority, restored and refreshed, impressed with themselves for maximizing their time and energy, and totally glad they booked! Experiences are gifts that keep giving -- you can close your eyes and relive them for years to come.
WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES PORT TOWNSEND, AND THE OLYMPIC PENINSULA, SUCH A SPECIAL PLACE FOR COUPLES?
The Olympic Peninsula is abundance personified, and I’ve been known to say that Port Townsend is basically an adult sleepaway camp. There is something here for everyone! You can spend the better part of a day swaddled in solitude and then quickly transition to an idyllic and bustling community. Once you drive past that welcome sign it’s easy to feel like you stumbled into a film about a sweet and sleepy Victorian seaport -- and you’re the romantic leads!
