Yes! Definitely Yes!
We were heading out to our honeymoon in Anguilla in a couple weeks, and I wanted to do something special as a surprise for my new husband. We had a private dinner on the beach in the Maldives in the past, and since we were heading to another beautiful beach, I thought we could do a similar dinner, Anguilla style. It was the best decision, and I'm so grateful! It was an experience we will never forget.
Is it affordable?
In Anguilla, eating out is pricey. A drink for each person, an appetizer, a salad, and two seafood entrees will likely cost you anywhere between $150 to $250 USD including a tip (10-15% which is a great tip). We had a standard breakfast the other day and each had a coffee, and it was $70 with a tip to put this in perspective. Our private chef did a four (technically five with a treat that was compliments of the chef) course meal for $220 USD including a bottle of wine (Note: the picnic setup was a separate cost but they did offer just feeding us dinner in our condo kitchen as part of the cost). We added a tip because it was the best service we've ever had, and we were served on our patio the entire night. You have the ability to customize your menu, so you can get exactly what you want. The food was delicious, and we even had leftovers for the next day including multiple lobster cakes, lots of pork belly, and these delicious donut like pastries without the sugar. So so good!
How do I arrange this?
This all sounds great, but you may be thinkin, "how do I coordinate all of this?" It's actually super easy. Contact the concierge at your resort, and ask them for local businesses at your destination. I was sent options, menus, companies within a day or two, and was able to create an experience that matched my vision.
The resorts are happy to help! It's supports their country. It supports local businesses. It encourages local. It keeps their businesses thriving. They want to make you happy so you return and/or encourage tourism. The experience was easy and convenient. We stayed at Tranquility Beach, and the view, the picnic, and the service provided to make this happen was fabulous.
How do I do a picnic?
In Anguilla, there is an awesome company called Milestone Events. They do everything from weddings to parties to picnics. You can find them online or on Instagram @milestone_events.ai - Definitely find them if you are going to Anguilla or if you simply want ideas for a surprise picnic.
If you are at home and wanting to do something like this DIY style, you can get ideas from them as well. I will also write another article on how to create this picnic experience DIY style at your home and link items you can get on Amazon! Stay tuned.
Below are some additional pictures from the night.
Just a reminder: Make memories. Focus on experiences. Take the time for little surprises. Show people you care. Make people smile. They will remember it, and so will you. There is no better feeling than spreading love.
