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I'm sure you've seen the adorable wine picnic baskets that grocery and department stores always have on display--the ones adorned with traditional checked fabric, as well as built-in straps and pouches for a table cover, napkins, wine flutes, a wine key and other utensils needed for a picnic. Some kits also have a small cutting board and implements for slicing cheese. Others feature flatware and silverware, and many include an insulated pocket for wine bottles. The price of the baskets varies from $40 to $200, but the fun and romance they add to picnics are invaluable.

Both ways are enjoyable and romantic but an old fashioned picnic basket is something that can really set a good mood. Wicker baskets traditionally have two flaps cover the contents of the basket and the models generally have a greater capacity, if with some added weight. If you're planning to do some hiking it might be best to use a backpack type model.

The question is, then, what type of food to take along in your wine picnic basket. Traditional picnic foods include fried chicken, potato salad, and various fruits. It is important, though, to stay away from messy foods that can spoil the inside of the basket. If you decide to bring wine, don't forget a corkscrew! Cheese and bread are also good picnic foods, but also necessitate brining along a bread knife. If you can find them, fresh strawberries are an excellent choice. To really get romantic, gourmet chocolate can't be beat. Sandwiches are great picnic food, since you can make whatever kind you desire. Tomatoes will make your bread get soggy, though, so it is important to either pack them separately, or simply to make your sandwiches during your picnic.

Brrr its cold outside, and you want to do something special for your significant other for Valentine's Day. A great gift idea is the wine picnic baskets that are available. Look in to renting a secluded cabin in the woods, if it has a fireplace you could cozy up to roaring fire, light several candles, put blankets down and spread out the picnic on the floor. What could be more romantic?

Having a picnic at places such as Princeton Battlefield is great for any occasion, not just Valentine's Day. For example, my family went there for Father's Day. As my husband and I sat and cut cheese to go with our wine, our children ran around having fun. We took a bottle of grape juice for the kids, and wine for ourselves.

The last step is to decide what else you should take on the picnic. This depends on who you are bringing with you. If you bring children, a ball or a frisbee would be fun. If you are going as a couple, bring something romantic. A Valentine's gift, an engagement ring, or flowers are all good surprises. Either way, be sure to have lots of fun.