The Best Picnic Spot in Charlotte

Friday was my birthday. Yes, I've stopped celebrating--it only lasted through the weekend. But I wanted to tell you about the great evening my girlfriend, Andrea, planned for me on Friday. She arranged a private picnic for the two of us at VanLandingham Estate and not only was it picture perfect, but you can do it too.

It's something like a best kept secret that this historic bed and breakfast caters private picnics on its beautiful grounds. Andrea called ahead early in the week to inquire about the menus offered (she even stopped by to see what spot she wanted). When we arrived at 6 p.m., all we had to do was pick up our fully packed basket, wine chiller, and blanket. Then we sat down in a shaded area near the pond. The weather was perfect for it.

The basket was packed with five courses and a bottle of wine. We were nearly full before even eating the main course (a turkey, brie and pepperoncini panini), and although there was a dessert for each of us we only had enough room in the belly to split one. (Plus, I had a yellow cake with chocolate icing--my favorite--waiting at home that Andrea made for me earlier that day.)

Click here for more details on the picnics offered at VanLandingham Estate.