Creating The Ultimate Spring Picnic with Ed Dixon

The sun is out and picnic season is in full swing. Just in time for the Spring Racing Carnival, we teamed up with Ed Dixon Food Design for tips on creating the perfect racing picnic.

"A day at the races is full of frivolity and fun, but it can be a long day for ladies on their feet," says founder and event stylist Ed Dixon.

"Make sure there are a range of chairs and picnic rugs available within your area, as well as market umbrellas or a shade option so guests can sit down and relax. Flowers are essential in the height of spring. Keep costs down by visiting the market and mixing premium blooms with beautiful leaves and foliage. Select a simple colour palette then matching your linen, florals, platters, and crockery back with this."

"We always suggest a grazing style menu for a picnic event, this allows your guests to eat as they please throughout the day. We recommend grazing boards with an abundance of artisan cheeses, cured meats, fresh crudité and crusty baguettes sitting alongside fresh and light salad bowls made with seasonal ingredients. Point sandwiches and quiche are a more substantial offering that are best bought out later in the day. Keep in mind that your guests will be dressed in their beautiful designer dresses, keep anything likely to spill and stain off the menu. That includes heavy sauce, dripping dressings, rich desserts and fiddly canapés. Finish the feast with good quality sparkling wine."

Ed Dixon’s Top 5 Tips for Spring Racing Events:

• Opt for individual bottles of mineral water and soft drinks. They look cute and are more practical than bringing extra glassware
• Add background music – upbeat jazz is a great option
• Take plenty of ice so that food and drinks stay chilled and fresh
• Pack a few bottles of sunscreen and insect repellent for guests