Triangle friends launch luxury picnic, catering business

The weather is getting warmer and that means more opportunities to get outside. And with COVID-19 restrictions starting to ease as more people become vaccinated, outdoor events are becoming even more popular.

While you can plan your own picnic or party, the idea of someone else doing the work (and the cleanup!) is probably a lot more appealing after being cooped up the past year.

That's where Pineapple Sol comes in. Friends Dahiana Vitabar and Aleena Azhar started the business at the beginning of this year. The goal was to help set up decorative picnics, high teas and other outdoor events. They also provide catering services.

"The concept started from our goal to open like a brunch spot in Durham. So we kind of wanted to do like a brunch vibe, but now we decided..with COVID and everything kind of just change things around and do this full time," Azhar said.

Pineapple Sol creates gift boxes, chocolate covered strawberries, Charcuterie pastries, chocolate covered strawberries and just about everything else you need to enjoy a party.

"We do brunch boards. We do dessert boards. Like pretty much somebody has a vision. They'll come to us, tell us what they want and we'll make it happen," Azhar said.

Events can be set up in public parks and even your backyard. Pineapple Sol provides the plates, the table, chairs, pillows and decorations. Food is an up-charge and can be added. When the event is over, a crew comes back to clean up the mess.

The business' name was inspired by their love of the beach.

"We kind of wanted to incorporate that beachy tropical vibe," Azhar said. "And then the Sol means sun in Spanish."