photos by MEGAN BLACK PHOTOGRAPHY
You’ve probably been to a traditional picnic, where family and friends bring blankets and food and gather outside to eat, drink, and socialize. But there’s a new twist on the old American tradition with ‘pop-up picnics,’ and the Winston-Salem Picnic Ladies take this party style to a whole new level!
Across the country, during the COVID-19 lockdowns, any way people could gather and have interaction became popular, and pop-up picnics became the best way to celebrate a special occasion. But before the nationwide craze began, sisters Sarah Croom Bradford and Mollie Bradford fell in love with the picnic business after assisting their friend Keeley Spagnola with several picnics, as well as hosting their own family celebrations. They soon realized they had found their niche!
“In March 2022, we bought the picnic business from our friend Keeley and rebranded it to Winston-Salem’s Picnic Ladies. It is so rewarding to create a dreamy atmosphere as the backdrop to our clients’ special celebrations. From proposals to date nights, bachelorette brunches, and baby showers, we genuinely love bringing smiles to others’ faces,” said Mollie.
Moments to Remember
Each picnic planned by Winston-Salem’s Picnic Ladies is one of a kind and customized to fit the individual client’s preferences, including color scheme, theme, etc., but this duo adds a little something extra: a beautiful setting!
“We offer curated pop-up experiences perfect for an elevated date night, social gathering, or proposal, and host wedding picnic services at our family’s private 54 acre farm and venue, The Little Chapel at Haven Ridge. The great thing is, Mollie lives on the property in our inn, so we are always close by to lend a helping hand if needed, but give all picnic clients their privacy. We greet each guest and welcome them to their picnic, then return for post-picnic clean up,” Sarah commented.
All picnic packages include: private venue at the farm, water carafe and beverages (champagne is standard), set up, clean up/breakdown, utensils, plates, cups, decor, pillows, rug(s), and much more with every detail covered.
“Part of what makes our picnics so special is that they are secluded! Our clients choose from scenic areas like our lakeside or waterfall, meadows, or chapel. We currently have a couple of exciting new additions in the works on the farm’s grounds. A tiny cottage and a 1500 square foot glass solarium that will offer 360 degree views of the property. We’re very excited to see how we can grow!” stated Mollie.
While the Picnic Ladies do not cater the events, they offer restaurant meal pick-up service and partner with many locally owned businesses when an event permits. Clients are also welcome to have food catered or delivered.
Winston-Salem’s Picnic Ladies pride themselves in attention to detail and the beautiful eclectic items give each picnic that little something extra. “Our collection of inventory is curated from shopping pieces that catch our eye, thrifting, and even some family pieces, like our grandmothers’ china. We love supporting and collaborating with local businesses, so we do enjoy shopping and adding to what we have to make each picnic special and never duplicated,” Sarah said.
For more information, visit winstonsalempicnicladies.com. To view the venue, thelittlechapelnc.com. Winston-Salem Picnic Ladies are now accepting events for fall 2023 and beyond.
