We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Teresa DeMitchell. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Teresa below.
Teresa , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
As a luxury picnic planner, not only do I get to showcases my creativity, but I also get to play a small role in commemorating special moments in the lives of my clients. When someone contacts me, its usually because they are celebrating a special event, their friends, a family member, or a milestone.
One of my most meaningful picnics I did was when a client reached out to me because he wanted to surprise his wife with a picnic for their anniversary. He wanted to do something extra special for her due to some family circumstances. I later found out that he was diagnosed with cancer. After a few conversations with him, I carefully selected a beautiful location, overlooking the trees, and provided a meal and activities for them to do together during their picnic. It was one of my earlier picnics, but I’ll never forget it.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Teresa DeMitchell, and I am the founder ans owner of Picnic Parlour ATX. I grew up in Hilo, Hawaii, and that’s where my love for community, the outdoors, and the arts began. I have always had my hand in some sort of art, whether is was dancing, acting, or designing, I was participating in it. Somewhere along my 39 years of life, I got stuck in a 9-5 office job. While I enjoyed my field of work, I knew I would be much happier doing something creative.
When COVID hit, I had some time to think about what I really wanted to do. Something I have always loved was planning parties. My parties always included a theme, decor, signature drinks, and planned activities. Whatever the occasion, I really enjoy creating experiences for people that felt special, unique and had a little bit of whimsy sprinkled in.
People always told me I should put my love for party planning into a business, but I just didn’t know how to start. I knew during COVID party planning wasn’t going to be an option, so I began to think about how I could bring these events outside, and that’s where my idea for Picnic Parlour ATX began. So, I designed a few tables, asked a friend to take a few photos and help me with a social media account, and it just took off from there. Since then, I’ve booked hundreds of picnics, partnered with so many local business, and have even ventured into planning my own community events.
As a luxury picnic owner, I want to create a unique and personalized experience for every client. Every detail is thoughtfully planned out from start to finish. And just like my personal events, I love adding those whimsical touches like vintage decor. Some of the plates I use are from my in-laws wedding.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
One of the most rewarding aspects of Picnic Parlour ATX is being able to provide special memories for people. Luxury Picnics are not an easy thing to create. From working for hours on a design, lugging 100lb+ carts through the park, or working in hot and cold temperatures, it can be exhausting! But when I see the finished product and my clients eyes light up, I know I did something special, and that makes me really happy and proud of what I do.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
Artists and creatives contribute so much to their communities. I think at some point, everyone has been touched by art or creative expression. One way society can support artists is to advocate for more funding and grants for the arts. Unfortunately, there tends to be a lot of financial barriers when it comes to the arts, which causes people to stop pursuing their passion. Providing funding to enable artists to pursue their craft will just enrich the community around them.
Besides that, share our work on social media! You may not purchase that art or book with that creator at that time, but maybe the people you share our work with will. That is so so helpful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.picnicparlouratx.com/
- Instagram: picnicparlouratx
- Facebook: picnicparlouratx