With no shortage of sunshine, sea salt air and breathtaking views, Florida is the perfect setting for any outdoor gathering. Pair that with government mandated shutdowns and social distancing guidelines, and you have the perfect recipe for an innovative business model. While the pop-picnic is not an entirely new concept, the industry exploded last year and continues to thrive as we move forward.
The current pandemic landscape is slowly bringing restaurant and bar goers back to the scene. And with many folks still not wanting to be in confined, crowded spaces, rooftop bars are more popular than ever. Highly sought-after outdoor entertainment and dining opportunities have inspired the booming pop-picnic movement as the ideal alternative for socially distanced celebrating.
Various companies provide and set up all of the decorative accoutrement, sometimes food and beverages depending on the package, and post-event cleanup. Depending on expectations and budget, packages and add-ons can range from $160 to $700+ and clients are given the choice to post up anywhere from the beautiful gulf side to romantic Vinoy Park. The concept is perfect for visitors and locals alike giving them the opportunity to intimately gather and make up for last year’s canceled and postponed celebrations.
For Insta Picnic Co. owner and hospital dietitian, Amanda, pop-up picnics were the perfect platform for her to merge her passion for food and her love for entertaining into a profitable business. She discovered she could both express herself artistically and entertain in a safe, socially distanced way. Since launching in December, she has been able to help her clients celebrate birthdays and anniversaries, have quiet and comfortable date nights, and has even hosted some small weddings.
With poof pillows, rugs, small tables, market lighting and decorative greenery, Amanda acquired most of her decorative supplies from her own home–but with increasing demands, she quickly expanded her inventory. Whether boho or luxury, Amanda curates an ideal and intimate picnic. She is also the only picnic company in the greater Tampa Bay area that can offer her clients an igloo tent. Now, her biggest challenge is to meet the volume of requests and demand for this rapidly growing industry.
Plan your next socially distanced event with Insta Picnic Co. at https://www.instapicnicco.com/
Here is a list of some other local pop-up picnic businesses in the Greater Tampa Bay area.
Emerald Coast Picnic Co.
Simple Escapes
St. Pete Picnic Co.
Article written by Laura Parrinello
