It’s official: the sun is out, the evenings are lighter, and “Picky Bits” season has finally arrived. There is a unique British joy in abandoning a formal dinner for a picky tea filled with tapas-style treats, grazing boards, and finger foods.
Whether you’re heading to the park for a picnic or hosting a sun-drenched garden party, the M&S Foodhall at Handforth Dean is the ultimate destination for a high-quality spring/summer feast.
The Menu: Fresh Deli Delights & Summer Staples
M&S is the undisputed king of the deli counter, and this season is all about vibrant colours and bold flavours. To create the ultimate spread, you need a balance of savoury, crunchy, and creamy textures. Start with the foundational favourites like their handmade coleslaws and honey-glazed cocktail sausages, then elevate your board with these seasonal stars:
- The Global Deli: Transport your taste buds with a Continental Charcuterie Grazing Platter or their legendary best-ever feta stuffed peppers. For a fresh twist, look for the Middle Eastern-inspired grain salads and citrus-infused hummus that pair perfectly with warm flatbreads.
- Artisan “Only Ingredients” & Good Gut Finds: Focus on quality with the Only Ingredients range, think premium Pitted Halkidiki Olives or slowly cured Serrano Ham. To keep things feeling light and balanced, add a bottle of Good Gut Kefir or a selection of their fibre-packed veggie sticks and dip.
- Sweet & Refreshing Finish: No al fresco lunch is complete without a refreshing hit. Swap the heavy cakes for M&S prepared fruit platters featuring perfectly ripe mango and pineapple, or indulge in their Collection Gelato for a sophisticated way to cool down in the June heat.
Top Tip: Don’t forget the M&S sparkling pressés, the Elderflower and Rose lemonade looks stunning in acrylic glassware and is the perfect alcohol-free alternative for a sunny afternoon!
Picnic Accessories: Dine in Style
A great picnic is as much about the setup as it is the food. Head to the M&S home section to find stylish yet practical accessories that make outdoor dining effortless:
- Tote-able Comfort: Look for their range of lightweight, insulated cool bags to keep your drinks chilled and your “picky bits” fresh.
- Sustainable Serving: M&S offers a beautiful collection of melamine plates and acrylic glassware in vibrant summer hues. They look like ceramics but are virtually indestructible, perfect for kids and clumsy guests!
- The Ultimate Picnic Blanket: Opt for one with a waterproof backing so a little morning dew won’t dampen your afternoon.
Setting the Scene: Summer Decorations
If you’re moving the party from the park to the patio, a few simple decorations can transform your garden into a Mediterranean getaway.
Think solar-powered festoon lights draped over fences, brightly coloured table runners, and fresh floral centrepieces. M&S has a stunning selection of seasonal blooms that make for a perfect, natural table decoration that smells as good as it looks. Don’t forget a citronella candle to keep the bugs away late into the evening.
Picnic Style: Comfort Meets Chic
Dining on the grass calls for outfits that are as flexible as they are fashionable.
- The Chic Co-ord: Effortless matching sets in breathable linen from M&S or sporty seamless leggings from the Goodmove collection.
- Smart Layering: Keep a lightweight denim jacket or an oversized sweatshirt on hand for when the British breeze picks up.
- Practical Footwear: Swap the heels for classic white trainers or cushioned sandals that handle uneven ground with ease.
- Sunny Accessories: Finish the look with a wide-brimmed straw hat and a fresh pair of sunglasses.
Top Tip: Choose darker colours or busy floral patterns for your picnic bottoms, they’re much more forgiving if you encounter a grass stain or a stray drop of dip!
Why Choose Handforth Dean for Your Summer Shop?
Planning a picnic or a party shouldn’t be stressful. At Handforth Dean, we’ve designed the shopping experience to be as breezy as a summer’s day.
What are your non-negotiable “picky bits”? Let us know on our Facebook or Instagram!