When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Southern Picnics
Why Southern Picnics is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Southern Picnics in Raleigh, North Carolina, offers a uniquely charming and luxurious picnic experience that makes it an ideal venue to meet up with friends for special occasions or leisurely gatherings. Renowned for their flower-filled vintage picnic setups, the company transforms local parks into beautifully curated spaces that combine comfort, aesthetics, and convenience. The setup includes carefully chosen vintage-style furniture and décor, providing a stylish and cozy ambiance that elevates any event, from birthday celebrations to romantic outings and family get-togethers. What makes Southern Picnics stand out is their all-inclusive service, which covers everything from setup to cleanup, allowing guests to focus solely on enjoying their time together without any hassle. Their dedication to creating memorable experiences is reflected in their personalized approach, where each picnic can be tailored to the clients' preferences. The attention to detail and high-quality arrangements make Southern Picnics a top choice in Raleigh for those looking to enjoy an outdoor setting with elevated style and comfort. Overall, it is an exceptional spot to relax, enjoy great company, and immerse oneself in a beautifully crafted environment that fosters connection and joy.
Here's what people think of Southern Picnics
As of recent, Southern Picnics holds a 5-star rating based on 113 reviews.
Southern Picnics holds an exceptional 5.0-star rating based on over 110 reviews, highlighting a consistent record of customer satisfaction and quality service. Reviewers frequently commend the company for its flawless organization, beautiful picnic aesthetics, and the seamless customer experience from start to finish. Positive feedback often mentions the company's thoughtful touches, such as flower arrangements and vintage details, that make each picnic special and unique. Clients appreciate the hassle-free nature of the service, with the team handling all setup and cleanup, allowing guests to relax fully. Some customers also noted the responsiveness and kindness of the owner, Angela, who even offers personalized advice and support outside of scheduled services, demonstrating a genuine commitment to exceeding customer needs. On the other hand, negative reviews are scarce but sometimes cite scheduling difficulties, especially when requests are made last minute or during peak dates like Mother’s Day. However, even in these cases, Southern Picnics is praised for its professionalism and efforts to assist customers creatively. In summary, the reviews paint a picture of a highly reliable and creative service provider that prioritizes customer experience, making Southern Picnics a beloved choice for luxury outdoor gatherings in the Raleigh area.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Molly Hart
Angela with Southern Picnics was AMAZING to work with. She was able to pick a beautiful, secluded park, and captured the theme of the party to a tee! She is able to accommodate most requests and was so responsive. Would highly recommend working with Southern Picnics for your next private party in the Raleigh area!
Kristen Fay Anderson
A vintage-inspired picnic is such a unique idea to celebrate a special day and Southern Picnics made it easy! Would recommend them to anyone. We brought our 9-month old baby and they accommodated, including fans, parasols for shade, bug spray, etc.
Sharon Retzlaff
I recently had the pleasure of attending a picnic with Southern Picnics, and it was an amazing experience! Their attention to detail is truly impressive. The setup was beautifully crafted with delightful props and fresh flowers, creating the perfect atmosphere for our gathering. Whether it's an everyday occasion or a special event, I highly recommend reaching out to them for an unforgettable picnic experience!
Alex Wynn
In November I used Southern Picnics to assist with a surprise proposal for my now fiancé, and it could not have gone smoother. Angie and the team were quick to respond following my online booking, asking for preferences and additional information to help make the day special. Southern Picnics shared GPS locations for the picnic spot in my preferred location (NC Art Museum) and even provided advice ahead of time regarding parking and how to approach for the big reveal. We ordered the brunch & dessert boards and had a wonderful meal with even better surrounding scenery. Angie went above and beyond to help with what could have been a nerve-wracking day- answering all of my questions promptly and providing advice/recommendations throughout the process. I don't plan on getting engaged again, but certainly would work with them again for other events. 10/10 would recommend to anyone and everyone. Thanks again to the team for making our day memorable.
Jessica B
I had an absolutely fantastic experience working with southern picnic. This company is not a professional, they are very pleasant to interact with and their design ideas are truly one in 1 million.
How to reach Southern Picnics
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Website: None
Why Southern Picnics may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
If you're searching for an unforgettable and seamless experience to enjoy a day out with friends or family, Southern Picnics in Raleigh offers exactly that. This business has mastered the art of curating luxurious, flower-filled vintage picnics that transform ordinary park outings into spectacular memories. With over 100 five-star reviews, it has earned the highest rating in Raleigh’s picnic scene, making it a trustworthy and delightful destination for group gatherings. The attention to detail in their setup — from elegant décor to carefully curated picnic essentials — creates an ambiance of comfort and style that feels both indulgent and intimate. This is not just a picnic; it’s a complete experience meticulously designed to bring people together in a relaxed yet sophisticated environment. The added bonus of professional setup and clean up means you and your friends can focus solely on enjoying your time without any hassle. Choosing Southern Picnics guarantees a flawless event where the only thing you need to worry about is creating lasting memories with your loved ones.
What activities can you expect when meeting up at Southern Picnics?
Southern Picnics offers a unique blend of leisure and luxury activities tailored to groups who want to bond in an outdoor setting with comfort and style. The centerpiece activity is, of course, the luxury picnic experience itself. Each picnic includes exquisite vintage-inspired décor, flower arrangements, stylish blankets, and carefully selected tableware, setting the stage for a charming and picturesque outing. Beyond just sitting and eating, guests can indulge in card games, board games, or even friendly group challenges, all facilitated by a comfortable and inviting setup. Many guests like to extend the experience by bringing along their own music or organizing photo sessions, taking advantage of the beautiful aesthetics of the setup and surrounding parks. Southern Picnics also occasionally offers recommendations or assistance for adding gourmet food or drink options through their curated add-ons, making your picnic not just visually stunning but delicious as well. Whether it’s a casual catch-up or a special celebration, the set environment encourages relaxed conversations, laughter, and connection in a unique way other venues don’t provide.
Why is Southern Picnics the perfect venue for group meetups?
Southern Picnics is perfect for group meetups because it expertly combines convenience, beauty, and customization, eliminating the usual stress associated with planning outdoor gatherings. The company handles everything from setup to takedown, ensuring your group can simply show up and enjoy the day—all you need to do is coordinate your invite list and show enthusiasm. The picnic spots are carefully chosen in local Raleigh parks known for their natural beauty and peaceful ambiance, providing a fresh outdoor atmosphere while still being accessible. The vintage aesthetic, featuring flower-filled arrangements and elegant props, is ideal for groups looking for more than picnicking; it caters to those who want a stylish and photogenic backdrop for their meetups, suitable for all ages and occasions. Since Southern Picnics is award-winning, recognized multiple times by WRAL and other local media for event planning excellence, it guarantees a high quality of service and experience that elevates your gathering to something truly special. This reliability and attention to customer satisfaction make it a trustworthy choice for family reunions, friend catch-ups, birthdays, or just a relaxing day outside.
How do the customer experiences reflect the value of Southern Picnics?
Customer testimonials consistently highlight the exceptional detail and heartfelt service provided by Southern Picnics, making it a standout in Raleigh's hospitality landscape. Many reviews describe how their surprise events—like Mother’s Day celebrations—were perfectly executed with beautiful setups that exceeded expectations. Customers appreciate not only the aesthetics but also the thoughtful touches such as being greeted with sparkling water and escorted to their picnic spot, which add a level of personalized care few other picnic companies offer. Reviews often mention the professionalism and warmth of the staff, especially owner Angela Byrnes, who is noted for going above and beyond, even offering advice or product support when immediate bookings weren’t available. That level of engagement boosts trust and makes clients feel valued, resulting in loyal repeat customers, many of whom praise the seamless service and lovely presentation. The accumulated 5-star ratings across more than 113 reviews testify to the consistent quality and satisfaction Southern Picnics delivers, reinforcing its reputation as Raleigh’s premiere luxury picnic provider.
What sets Southern Picnics apart from other picnic or outdoor gathering services?
Southern Picnics distinguishes itself through a commitment to luxury, customization, and impeccable customer service that goes beyond the typical picnic experience. While other companies might focus solely on food delivery or basic picnic setups, Southern Picnics provides a carefully curated, all-inclusive experience that feels more like a bespoke event. Their attention to vintage-inspired décor, curated floral arrangements, and elegant tableware transforms everyday parks into stylish outdoor lounges. Additionally, they have garnered recognition such as WRAL’s Event Planner of the Year for four consecutive years and features in local media highlighting their innovative approach to event curation. Unlike other companies that handle raw food preparation, Southern Picnics takes health and safety seriously by holding a ServSafe Food Handler certification to properly manage packaged foods when added to the setup. This professionalism ensures not only beauty but also safety and peace of mind. Furthermore, their flexibility to accommodate last-minute requests and even guide customers on recreating their picnic style at home illustrates their dedication to exceptional customer experience, making them unmatched in this niche market.
What practical benefits can groups enjoy when booking Southern Picnics?
Booking Southern Picnics delivers numerous practical benefits that simplify event planning and enhance group enjoyment. First and foremost, the service includes full setup and cleanup, freeing your group from the time-consuming aspects of picnic organization so you can focus entirely on socializing and relaxation. The company’s expertise means the setup is always aesthetically pleasing and functional, so there’s no need to worry about forgotten essentials such as plates, seating, or decorations. The choice of location in beautiful, accessible Raleigh parks means minimal travel hassle for local groups and ample space for children and adults to mingle comfortably. For those wanting to add food or drinks, Southern Picnics offers curated options and handles these safely in compliance with food safety standards, easing concerns about health regulations. Finally, being a highly rated, award-winning service, Southern Picnics provides peace of mind that your event will go smoothly and look stunning in photographs, helping capture precious moments with friends and family in a stress-free way.
What types of events or occasions are ideal for Southern Picnics?
Southern Picnics is versatile and ideal for a variety of occasions where friends or family want to gather outdoors with style and comfort. Popular events include birthday celebrations where the vintage luxury décor adds a special touch to make the day unforgettable. Mother’s Day and other family celebrations show especially well, with many rave reviews noting how the elegant set up elevated these moments. Romantic dates also benefit from the intimate yet stylish ambiance Southern Picnics offers, making it perfect for proposals, anniversaries, or just a beautiful day spent with a partner. The service also suits friends’ get-togethers or casual reunions, providing a shared, relaxing environment that encourages conversation and laughter. Because Southern Picnics handles setup and teardown, it can also be an excellent choice for corporate team-building outings or small group retreats looking for an informal yet memorable experience in a natural setting.
How does Southern Picnics enhance the social and emotional aspects of gathering?
Southern Picnics enhances gatherings by providing an environment that fosters connection, relaxation, and joy—all crucial elements for meaningful social interactions. The beautiful, thoughtfully designed picnic setups act as a catalyst for positive emotions, helping guests feel pampered and comfortable, which naturally encourages openness and bonding. By removing logistical stress, guests can focus wholeheartedly on each other and the shared experience rather than distraction or inconvenience. The natural park settings chosen add the benefits of fresh air and soothing surroundings, which scientific studies show improve mood and interpersonal connection. Southern Picnics also promotes inclusivity through its adaptable offerings that cater to groups of various sizes and interests, making everyone feel welcome and valued. In sum, this business creates a curated backdrop that transforms a simple meetup into a purposeful, emotionally enriching occasion that deepens friendships and family ties.
In what ways does Southern Picnics demonstrate commitment to quality and care?
Southern Picnics consistently demonstrates commitment to quality and care through every aspect of its operation—from the floral arrangements meticulously prepared to extend their freshness, to the detailed customer service that includes personalized greetings and escorting guests at the event. The owner, Angela Byrnes, personally exemplifies this ethos by going beyond typical service boundaries, such as providing consultation and support even when an immediate booking isn't possible, reflecting a genuine care for customer satisfaction. The company’s achievement of multiple awards, including WRAL’s Event Planner of the Year, highlights recognized excellence and high standards in event planning. Additionally, Southern Picnics prioritizes safety by maintaining ServSafe Food Handler certification, ensuring proper handling of any pre-packaged food during picnics. The continuous accumulation of five-star reviews and its status as the most highly rated picnic company in Raleigh further attest to the business’s unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional experiences that clients remember fondly and want to relive.
What logistical considerations make Southern Picnics user-friendly for groups?
Southern Picnics takes care of all logistical considerations to ensure a smooth and user-friendly experience for groups, which greatly simplifies the planning process. The company offers flexible booking options and communicates clearly to help coordinate details such as location choice and timing. Their professional team arrives early to handle all setup tasks, carefully arranging décor, seating, and any additional components according to the client’s preferences. After the event, the crew efficiently manages cleanup, restoring the space to its original condition and leaving no hassle for guests. Location choices in popular local parks mean ample parking, easy access, and a safe environment for all ages. Their customer service is highly responsive, offering tips and advice before and during the event, which makes even complex requests manageable. Altogether, Southern Picnics removes typical logistical headaches, allowing groups to enjoy their gathering stress-free.
How can Southern Picnics contribute to creating lasting memories?
Southern Picnics contributes to lasting memories by combining aesthetic beauty, thoughtful service, and a welcoming atmosphere that elevates every moment spent together. The visual appeal of their vintage-inspired setups filled with fresh flowers and elegant décor creates ideal photographic opportunities that groups cherish long after the event. The seamless experience, from setup to cleanup, means the focus is fully on social connection and enjoyment, helping forge meaningful interactions that attendees remember warmly. Their attentive staff and personalized touches make guests feel special and valued, further enhancing the emotional highlights of the occasion. By transforming an ordinary day into a carefully crafted event of shared joy, Southern Picnics helps create stories and experiences that become cherished parts of personal histories. Whether it's a birthday, reunion, or simple gathering, this business facilitates connection on multiple levels that deepen bonds and build treasured memories.