Frequently Asked Questions
Price and booking
How much is a Picnic Party?
Prices start at $1,400 for up to 15 makers: the kids or adults joining the activities. Grown-ups just hanging out are always welcome and don’t count toward that number. They get plates, cups, and utensils too.
Inviting more kids? That’s one of the best parts of a park party: there’s always room for one more. Each blanket set seats about 4 comfortably, or up to 8 if everyone squeezes in, so bigger groups may need a few extras. Extra makers are $60 each, extra blanket sets start at $50, and extra time is $75 per hour. Custom activities or decor can be added on too. I’ll give you a full quote on our call. The more the merrier!
How far ahead should I book?
Two weeks is ideal, so there’s time to design your banner and build your activity. Less time than that? Ask me. If I’m free, I’m happy to make it work, sometimes with a simpler banner or activity. Parties booked less than 2 weeks out have a 20% rush fee.
Who counts as a maker?
Anyone joining the stations. At kids’ parties, that’s the kids. At adults-only parties, it’s every adult who’s crafting. Mixed group? Count everyone who’ll be making.
Why does a party cost what it does?
Everything is handmade by me, from the custom banner to the sensory bins. Most of your price covers my time: planning your theme, making each piece, running errands, and setting it all up before you arrive. The rest goes to materials and flowers. You’re not paying for a team or a warehouse, just one person who cares a lot.
Want a little magic on a smaller budget?
A Classic Picnic with one sensory bin starts at $600.
Is it right for us?
What ages is this for?
Any age. Most Picnic Parties are for kids, but grown-ups get just as into it: painting gnomes, building mini hobbit homes, making keychains, collages, or paint by numbers. Tell me who’s celebrating and I’ll match the activity to them.
Is it safe for little ones?
Some activities use small pieces. Tell me the ages on our call and I’ll choose materials that fit.
Can we set up somewhere enclosed?
Yes. A backyard is the easiest option, and some parks have fenced areas near playgrounds that work well for little ones. Tell me what matters to you on our call and I’ll help you choose a spot. Parents and guardians supervise the kids during the party. I set everything up, then step away so you can enjoy it.
On the day
What do you do during the party?
Before your guests arrive, I set everything up, connect your phone to the speaker, and walk you through the activity. Then I step away so the party is all yours. I stay close by, so if you’re having food delivered, text me and I’ll come help bring it over. The kids and the cake are in your hands: parents and guardians watch the little ones, and the hosts serve the food. At your end time, I come back and pack everything up.
Do you bring food?
I don’t cater, but I bring everything to serve it on. You can see the trays and coolers here.
Do you use tables?
Not usually. Picnics & Pinecones is a ground-level picnic: blankets, low baskets, and sturdy boards that keep plates and cups steady right on the grass. It’s cozier, and it’s the whole point. If someone in your group would be more comfortable off the ground, just ask. I can add a simple elevated table with a tablecloth for the food or for a few grown-ups.
What about shade?
I keep umbrellas with me and set them up if your spot needs them. If there’s natural shade, even better, and I’m happy to help you pick a spot on our call.
Does my park have rules?
Most do, and every park is different. Some don’t allow confetti, balloons, amplified music, or alcohol, and some require a reservation or permit for groups. I’ll work within your park’s rules and adjust the decor if something isn’t allowed.
If plans change
What if it rains?
If the forecast looks bad, we decide together 48 hours before. You can reschedule once at no charge.
What if I need to cancel?
The deposit covers materials I’ve already bought and started making, so it isn’t refundable. If you cancel 7 or more days before your party, any balance you’ve paid is refunded in full.
What if something gets damaged?
Ordinary wear is expected and fine. Items that are lost or seriously damaged during your party may be charged at replacement cost.