Paradise Picnic | A Magical Outdoor Experience
For February also known as the month of love, we thought it would be ideal to feature a new and one of a kind business concept in Aruba: Paradise Picnic. The name says it all but get to know more about what exactly they do. Paradise Picnic is a picnic company that offers an experience, it goes beyond a simple lunch or dinner. Their mission is to provide a luxurious experience and an escape from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives.
How a dream became a reality
So how was Paradise Picnic founded? It all started last year as an idea and a dream by founder Maureen. When covid first started affecting the island last year, Maureen realized that something was missing here when it came to fun (and safe) outdoor experiences. We all love going out to dinner but right now the times have changed and some people would rather avoid public places or being around big groups. Additionally, there are so many rules and protocols nowadays that we need to follow when dining at restaurants so Paradise Picnic offers a lot more privacy when it comes to an intimate dining experience, it’s just pure magic!
Boss lady at work: day to day
So what does the day to day of a sole proprietor look like? Read below and find out as Maureen shares a day in her life. She starts her day by waking up at 6AM and prepares everything for the booking(s) of the day, meaning gather the materials and do the groceries. Next up, drive to the location that was booked to do the setup and go over her checklist to make sure everything is taken care off.
Next- welcome the guests as they start to arrive. Maureen makes sure that the guests’ needs are accommodated before taking off to let them enjoy their picnic. She usually stays close by in the neighbourhood and goes to a coffee place for a cappuccino while she works. This is the time she usually spends doing research for new products and ideas. After a few hours she heads back to the location to gather and pick up everything that was used and then prepares for the next setup.
Running your own business: the reality
We always like to hear from our collaborators what it’s like to run their own business and be their own boss in hopes to inspire you who is thinking about a career switch. Maureen explains that on the outside it looks like the perfect dream to be your own boss but in real life it’s about working hard day and night, and being consistent. “Sleepless nights and being on it all the time are definitely part of being your own boss but in the end it’s all worth it, I love it” says Maureen.
This shows us that yes you will work hard when running your own business but if you are really passionate about it and it’s your true calling, it will not feel like work and you will always have the love, dedication and energy for it. Maureen also shares that it’s not easy to start a business in Aruba when you are from another country, in her case she is from The Netherlands. A lot of people tend to think it’s easier because it’s the same nationality but the rules are completely different for someone who is not born here. There’s a lot of rules, regulations and paperwork that needs to get done but in the end Maureen feels proud and strong to have accomplished all of this and feels so rewarded when seeing her end product in action.
Maureen finalizes by adding that she couldn’t do what she is doing without the support of her amazing husband, family and friends. “The love and support I have received is unreal and the lovely words of encouragement of the sweet locals keeps me going and pushes me into making this company even beautiful, bigger and better”.
So whether you are celebrating a special occasion or “just because” for a special someone, be sure to contact Paradise Picnic and let Maureen take care of you, we promise you’ll have a magical experience.
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16/03/2021
