Consumer Critique: Party Kits from Lucy Darling

With current recommendations regarding physical distancing, it can be hard to think about having a celebration - but there are ways to still do it safely, such as outdoor gatherings with plenty of space between people.

Whether you're planning a gathering for the near future or waiting until later, party kits can make it easier. I had a chance to see a sample of a kit from Lucy Darling, and I liked it.

The design was right up my alley - fun, but not garish; child-friendly, but still a little bit sophisticated. There weren't a ton of extras that would be overwhelming - just plates (for dinner and dessert), cups, napkins, cupcake wrappers, a cake topper, and a cute banner. Cupcakes make great single-serving desserts to avoid cross-contamination, and for ease of serving, and having a cake topper for a special cake for the guest of honor and banner tie everything together without a ton of extra decorations. It's designed for 16 people, but could be used for 32 if you used dessert and regular plates, and then had a cake plus 16 cupcakes.

The Party-in-a-Box sets come in several themes: animal, garden, rainbow, and camper.

You can purchase Lucy Darling products online or find their stores nationwide at a variety of small and boutique retailers.