Friday, May 7, 2010

Diaper Bag Organization with Ju Ju Be and Lexie Barnes products - review and giveaway

Some of us are more organized than others for sure, minimally you need some compartments in your diaper bag to put small items so they don't get lost and ideally the ability to insulate bottles and food. If your diaper bag doesn't provide that or it doesn't provide enough then here are some products that you will LOVE!

Lexie Barnes Mini sets
Always a favorite in every size, the Lexie Barnes Set o'Minis is perfect for stowing, storing, toting, and protecting all of your itty bittys. From cosmetics or coins to cables and cords – and every notion in between - we've got you covered.
Other great tips: The XL is great for sorting intimates or holding all of your toiletries when you travel, and it's also the perfect fit for a box of baby wipes and 4 diapers. The small makes a great little wallet - and it's just the right size to hold your camera!
Features: Water-resistant waxed canvas, wipeable logo lining; nickel zipper; and black nylon tab. Sold as a set of four nesting sizes.
Small: 4.5 x 6.25 - perfect for change, coupons, credit cards, membership cards, cash
Medium: 5.5 x 8 - great for heavier coupon carriers, small first aid kits, small camera
Large: 6.5 x 9.5 - snacks, sunscreen and lotions, cosmetics, newborn clothing
X-Large: 8 x 11 - dipes and wipes, spare clothing, crayons and paper, small toys for the restaurant, snacks, the list is endless

You can buy these on the Lexie Barnes website as a set for $59.00, alternatively you can buy them individually at www.mamasandmunchkins.com (and they are 25% off for a limited time). They come in three different prints to suit your style. These are great for travelers as well.

Ju Ju Be  3 pc. Be Set  
$38.00
The Ju Ju Be Be Set is a collection of three super cute little bags in different sizes. The Ju Ju Be Be Set Baglets give you a great head start when racing off to the next event. The Ju Ju Be Be Set comes with two fun straps to make this choice a real winner! Grab and go with the Ju Ju Be Set where you can Be Set for anything that comes your way! The Ju Ju Be Be Set Features: Gusseted coin purse with extra long zipper so you can reach your money without having to turn it inside out A short and long strap included to have fun changing from wrislet to mini purse and back again Locking zipper pulls on the large one to keep those medicines and things out of your little ones reach (Lock not included) Teflon and AgION fabric treatments Wipeable and machine washable 3 great bags in matching prints
Mini: 4.5" x 2.5" x 7.5"
Medium: 4.5" x 8.25" x 1.5"
Large: 5.5" x 9" x 2" - makes a great small purse with it's long strap

Ju Ju Be Fuel Cell
22.00

Fuel up! This great looking bottle bag/lunch sack fits more than you’d think! The Ju-Ju-Be Fuel Cell will comfortably hold three tall bottles with room to spare, or pack your own snack and water bottle for lunch. The 3M Thinsulate lining keeps things cool or toasty so you can serve lunch at just the right temperature. Eat up!
  • quick grab handle with swivel clip… hooks onto your bag, stroller etc.
  • fun decorative star stitching on front panel
  • interior clear zipper lid pocket. good place for napkins, spoons, or even an icepack
  • machine washable!
  • AgION natural antimicrobial treatment keeps your baby sanitary
  • 3M Thinsulate. hot stuff stays hot, and cool stuff stays cool
SIZE: 7" x 9" x 4.25"


We will be doing a random drawing to giveaway a Ju Ju be Be Set on our facebook fan page. 
Obtain entries by comment here, comment on the actual fan page, tweet and post here, blog about this contest OR post it on your facebook status. You can do each of these daily. Drawing will be on Mother's Day. Have fun!

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Ju Ju Be Mini Be Diaper Bag Review

Our first review of the Ju Ju Be Mini Be was in January 2008 by Amy Barseghian, Pink Lady and Diaper Bagaholic. I was just mentioning to Felicia, one of our fellow diaper bag junkies that this would be the perfect toddler bag and it's definitely a bag worth revisiting. Here's why, first take a look at the inside:

The bag measures 7.75" x 12" x 4" and weighs one pound six ounces. The first part of the Mini Be that you notice when looking at the front is the large pocket that is gusseted which allow you to put more in there without it looking stuffed. Inside the pocket is a scrunchy key chain with a lobster claw clasp to keep your keys within easy reach. There is also room for a slim wipes case or a couple of diapers if you would prefer to keep your keys in the main compartment. 
The pocket closes with a "smart magnet" which will easily close without having to match up the magnets like on a typical magnetic closure. A word of caution, since the magnets are so strong they can effect electronics with magnetic hard drives such as smart phones, ipods, PDAs, etc if you get them close to the magnets so make sure to store them in a different section of your bag and you won't have any problems. (I personally haven't heard of any actual issues but better to be safe than sorry.)
Behind the pocket is the double zippers that open up the main compartment. The zippers unzip all the way down to the bottom of the bag with more gussets so that you have full access without anything falling out. Also, as with all Ju-Ju-Be's, the inner lining is light colored so you won't get a "black hole" effect. There is one small mesh pocket that hangs near the back of the main compartment where you can put your cell phone, a couple of binkies, or even a small wallet. I love having this mesh pocket for stashing things that I don't want to fall to the bottom of my bag. 
The rest of the main compartment is open so you can organize it how it works best for you. The main compartment can hold a lot more than it seems that it could. I mostly use my Mini Be for a purse for myself and can fit a 20oz water bottle, my wallet, a make up bag, a be quick (another great ju-ju-be product) filled with wipes, toiletries, etc., a purse sized brush, my glasses case, sunglasses, and still have room left over. 
On both sides of the bag you'll notice a bottle/sippie pocket that can hold most types of bottles, although the pockets are smaller than on the other bags and are a tight fit. Behind the zippers to the main compartment is another pocket that which closes with a zipper and opens up to the snack compartment lined with a plastic waterproof material and can keep snacks safe for taking on the go.  If something spills or leaks it can be wiped right out or rinsed out if needed. 
The back of the Mini Be is a mesh fabric which breaths very nicely and is comfortable when wearing the bag for long periods of time.  As mentioned before, the straps are great and the top half that hits your shoulder is padded with memory foam and is lined with the same mesh that is on the backside of the bag, making the bag even more comfortable to carry. As is true with all of the bags in the Ju Ju Be line the Mini Be is machine washable (upside down and open) and air dry which makes clean up a breeze.

Monday, May 3, 2010

Diaper Bag Sale - up to 70% off at Poutbaby

I came across this incredible sale at Poutbaby - their bags are 70% off right now, quanties appear to be limited so hurry! I'm LOVING the Pout Pouch.



Brown w/ coral interior

Bold leather trim and sleek quilted exterior make this baby bag a must for all moms. It is designed to carry all your baby needs and has just the right amount of pockets for your little one and you.

  • Sleek, chic, quilted nylon exterior
  • Easy-wipe interior, exterior, and changing pad
  • 4 large interior pockets for diapers, wipes, toys, snacks, and change of clothes
  • 2 small interior pockets
  • 2 exterior bottle or sippy cup pockets
  • 1 large exterior pocket
  • 1 interior zipper for personal belongings
  • Waterproof lining protects against spills
  • Key/toy/pacifier clip
  • Tie Closure
  • The Lola Diaper Bag is great bag for twins and two kids
  • Dimensions 18 x 13 x 6
Price: $168.00 $65.00


Brown w/ coral interior

This fabulous backpack is perfect for moms on the go and has just the right amount of space for baby and mom

  • Sleek, chic, quilted nylon exterior (plush and soft)
  • Easy wipe interior and exterior
  • Magnetic and tie closure
  • 2 exterior bottle or sippy cup pockets with magnetic
    closure
  • 2 interior pockets
  • 1 interior zipper pocket
  • Adjustable straps
  • Leather hook
  • Dimensions: 13 x 13 x 6
Price: $135.00 $55.00



Brown w/ coral interior

This large stylish tote is perfect for long days, weekend getaways, and baby sleepovers - plenty of room for all baby's necessities and toys. Great addition to your pout collection.

  • Sleek, chic, quilted nylon exterior (plush and soft)
  • Easy wipe interior and exterior
  • Zipper closure
  • 4 interior pockets (2 bottle or sippy cup pockets, 2 large pockets)
  • 1 large interior zipper pocket
  • The Carrie Tote is great bag for twins and two kids
  • Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 6
Price: $190.00 $59.00



Black

Keep your diapers and wipes organized in this stylish diaper clutch.
Organize the inside of your diaper bag or carry it alone!
  • Durable waterproof nylon (interior and exterior)
  • Velcro closure
  • Hold 2-3 diapers and wipe case
  • Wrist-let strap
  • Black nylon waterproof quilted circle exterior
  • Hot pink nylon waterproof interior (light blue available)
  • Dimensions 7 ½ x 10 ½
Free shipping!
Price: $35.00 $20.00

The Perfect Travel Bag for a New Mom - Ju Ju Be Be Prepared Diaper Bag

Packing is always tricky, especially if you are a new mom, the key is picking the right bag. Choose a bag with well planned organization such as a Diaper bag like the Ju Ju Be "Be Prepared".  A well designed Diaper Bag has a place for everything you could need and keeps everything compact.  (Hint: pack a few diapers and wipes- what you might need for the trip plus a day, buy the rest at destination). Toss in wristlet, like a Ju Ju Be Be Quick to take out with you for short trips at destination and you are set. You now have a nursery in a bag, perfect for travel.

Monday, April 26, 2010

Mamasandmunchkins.com Mothers Day gift for facebook fans

Mamasandmunchkins.com has offered it's facebook fans an early gift for Mother's Day. 10.00, 20.00 or 25.00 US dollar gift certificate to be used at any time on any new order. Details available on the Mamasandmunchkins facebook fan page. One gift certificate per person. To be eligible you MUST be a listed facebook fan, anyone not eligible will be refunded immediately and the order will not be filled.

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Top 20 Diaper Bag Designers for Mom AND Dad

We had a blast doing the research for today's blog post. Stay tuned for the top high-end luxury diaper bags later this week. In alphabetical order:



Amy Michelle
Amy Michelle Diaper bags was born over dinner one night. Amy (a product marketing pro) and Michelle (a working Mom) were just talking about balancing family, friends, career, and staying sane through it all. The conversation shifted to baby bags as they either looked good or had good functionality. After scribbling on a cocktail napkin....Amy Michelle diaper bags came to life. Our bags are stylish yet practical...and are perfect for the Mom on the go. Price range $55.00-$135.00

Baby Kaed
Baby Kaed designer diaper bags that are practical, chic and stylish. Baby Kaed baby diaper bags come with everything any parent would need, from pacifier purse to wipes case a dirty duds pouch and of course a cosmetics pouch for mom, changing mat, lots of pockets and a safe place to store your mobile phone. The Baby Kaed diaper bag line consists of messenger baby diaper bags, tote baby diaper bags, leather diaper bags, backpack diaper bags, and daddy diaper bags. Multi-functional diaper bags that are practical, chic and stylish. Diaper bags that come with everything any parent would need, from pacifier purse to wipes case a dirty duds pouch and of course a cosmetics pouch for mom, changing mat, lots of pockets and a safe place to store your mobile phone. Price range $90.00-$400.00

Baby Mel
Designers of beautiful and modern parent bags as well as children's products, Babymel changing bags combine original prints and durable fabrics with great features such as wipe clean linings, insulated bottle pockets and changing mats. Since Spring of 09, all of babymel's bags feature the patent pending Strollerstrap- a brand new invention to allow you to switch between stroller and shoulder. Price range $30.00-$98.00

Bumble Bags
For the past five years, Bumble Bags has been offering originally designed diaper bags to its ever-growing fan base of celebrity and main-street moms. All Bumble Bags are created using our exclusive "one of a kind" hand designed prints combined with our own proprietary water and stain resistant fabrics that not only make our products lightweight, but durable and ready to endure motherhood's greatest challenges. Price range $24.00-$300.00

Dad Gear
Finally, great-looking, functional diaper bags just for dad! At DadGear™, we’re proud to offer an extensive line of dad diaper bags and men’s diaper vests – all stylish dad gear that’s designed by dads, for dads. You’ll find the DadGear™ name to be synonymous with superior quality, durability, and handy features like “hands-free” styling and our Quick Access Wipes Case. Whether for yourself or as a gift for dad, we offer plenty of styles and designs, including our popular Diaper Vest™, messenger bags, backpacks, and more! Price range $59.00-$98.00

Diaper Dude

Fleurville
Fleurville is a company focused on creating compelling solutions for modern parents. Fleurville has recently been acquired by JJ COLE COLLECTIONS who will continue to design and create stylish products. Our products include the MotherShip (R), Sling Tote, Lexie Tote, Lunch Pak and Kid's Messenger. We use environmentally-friendly fabrics and technologies like Green-LAM and ReRun that are PVC-free and lead-free. Our bags are favorites of celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker, Ben Affleck, Oprah Winfrey, Jon Stewart and other smart moms and dads. Price point $28.00-$165.00


Gittabags
The Gittabags diaper bags, intended for parents and babies, are characterized by a trendy look combined with maximal functionality.
This is not just another ordinary baby bag; it is a bag that accompanies the parent during the entire day, to work and any other activity, with or without the child.
The stroller bags can be buckled onto all types of strollers at a high and convenient position.
The bags are highly resistant and can be machine washed. All bags have thermal pockets and accessorized with a changing pad, a laundry net and other baby accessories. Price range $99.00-$179.00


Hoohobbers

For 30 years Hoohobbers has maintained a few core values that have led us as we run a company and raise our families as well. This blog is dedicated to value-driven discussion and ideas. Amongst our core values are high quality, excellent customer service and sophisticated, traditional design with a modern slant. $75.00

Kalencom diaper bags are sophisticated baby bags that provide the modern mom all the practical needs of a nappy bag but also the style that befits a modern diaper bag. Kalencom excels at creating diaper bags that are rich variety of colors and designs that have set them apart from any other designer diaper bag line. Kalencom launched this entire new line of over 270 diaper bags this Spring which fits the needs of a wide variety of moms. Price range $20.00-$260 (for the Amy Butler prints).

JJ Cole
JJ Cole is the creative force behind popular products such as Bundle Me car seat cover! With a product line ranging from trendy diaper bags to car seat and stroller accessories, you are bound to find something for you and your little angel! Safety and the well-being of your baby is JJ Cole's main focus. Each of JJ Cole's products continually goes through rigorous third-party testing to ensure that they are meeting the highest standards in the industry, as well as conducting additional applicable US "voluntary" safety regulations. That, combined with stylish, practical and fun products, makes JJ Cole a name you can trust! Price range $30.00-$90.00

Ju Ju Be
While some lines promote their own unique blend of fashion and design, Ju-Ju-Be takes it a step beyond and incorporates the latest technology to create an entire range of diaper bags that are style savvy and cutting edge. What's so great about Ju-Ju-Be diaper bags? For starters they look great from the outside. But lift the flaps and pockets and discover a whole new world of diaper bag advancement. Interior linings are not only waterproof but are treated with AgION™ anti-microbial treatment to zap the germs. Light colored linings and mesh pockets make locating items a breeze – so much easier than rooting through a dark bag. Bottle pockets are lined with Thinsulate to keep items warm or cool and exterior fabrics are waterproof AND treated with Teflon for durability. Most diaper bags have the standard removable changing pad but Ju-Ju-Be makes theirs using anti-microbial fabrics and soft touch memory foam to evenly support your baby and eliminate pressure points. What else? How about clever Mommy pockets where you can stash keys and cell phones, sunglass pockets that actually clean your lenses and the most adorable transparent pockets to display pictures of your baby?  Ju Ju Be has just announced their eco-friendly Legacy Collection with Earth Leather. Price range $15.00-$200.00

Mia Bossi
This sophisticated line is taking diaper bags where "function meets fabulous" and allowing urban mommies to keep their savvy style without losing any practicality. Debuting in August 2005, Mia Bossi specializes in combining fashion with motherhood, creating the ultimate "Hot Mama." Mia Bossi couture diaper bags lend the perfect amount of sophistication and style to complement the ultimate adorable accessory...your baby.  A celebrity favorite $200.00-$1200.00

Nest
Fashion, form and function are the basic formula for any good bag, but what sets Nest Diaper Bags apart is the understanding that although priorities and needs do change when women become mothers - looking fantastic is just as important as it ever was. Trendy but tasteful design, sumptuous leathers, sophisticated patents and non-leather options are combined with structural detailing, roomy interiors, plenty of pockets and convertible stroller attachments to keep moms chic and organized. Poring over the latest in fashion magazines, blogs, current runway trends and an awareness of street style is a hobby and passion turned into a dream job for the three founding partners of Nest Diaper Bags. Another celebrity favorite. Price range $220.00-$385.00

Oi Oi Baby Bags
OiOi Sophisticated Baby bags are the brainchild of Lisa Bennetts. More than 10 years ago she gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, Isabella, who gave her the inspiration to create a label that empowered mothers to have the confidence to look amazing and feel equally as good! With a wealth of experience in fashion and accessories product development, working with companies such as Swarovksi Crystal, Europe and Oroton Australia, the birth of Lisa's daughter sparked the idea for a stylish yet functional baby bag - The OiOi Messenger bag was born! OiOi Baby bags are stylish, innovative and practical bags known for their superb quality and reliability. The bags are loved for their spectacular designs, vibrant fabrics, and functional styles that have no comparison. Sprouting from a single bag in 1997, the collection now resembles a lively, bustling family with over 40 styles available. Price range $99.00-$280.00

Petunia Pickle Bottom
Born out of a desire to bring style and sophistication to the world of modern parenting, Petunia Pickle Bottom was founded in 2000 by a trio of people who pay homage to the chic mommy who makes a statement without saying a word. Plucking the name from childhood (the head designer's father coined the phrase when she was a little one) Petunia Pickle Bottom has become more than a silly sentimental name, it has become the brand to have. In fact, from its very conception, the Petunia Pickle Bottom line has shown a fearless sense of style distinguishing itself from the once dreaded diaper bag. And what started with an innovative diaper bag has now blossomed into new product categories like Fawn by Petunia—a posh and plush infant bedding line, and Cake by Petunia—a fusion of inspired form and intuitive function that anticipates the mobile mother’s every need. Combining rich European cut velvets and wool tweeds to create sumptuous bags that are at once both modern and forever timeless. By utilizing eye-popping, sophisticated fabrics, and working with only the very best people in the industry, Petunia Pickle Bottom certainly shows no restraint from style. Price range $88.00-$280.00

Reese Li Baby
Reese Li diaper bags add a spice of life to the everything grind for moms. Reese Li has perfected the art of diaper bag designs. These baby bags are just the right size and with stunning designs and patterns. These baby changing bags look so good they can be mistaken for designer handbags. The interior pockets fit everything nicely and are well placed. You get chic looks with pragmmatic designs all at a bargain price! Price range $40.00-$150.00

Skip Hop
Skip Hop was founded in 2003 with the desire to provide products that resonate with the urban lifestyle of new parents. Truly understanding a new generation of urban moms and dads, Skip Hop creates bedding and diaper bags that are smarter, more innovative and safer with an appeal not only to your heart, but to your modern sense of design. Skip Hop designed the world's first diaper bag that converts into a stroller bag and has continued creating new parenting products that are original and transformational. Skip Hop is extremely economical, offering significant VALUE. Price Point $55.00-$99.00

Storksak
Storksak diaper bags are another popular designer diaper bags for top celebrities. Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Rachel Ray, Elisabeth Hasselback, and Tori Spelling have been seen everywhere carrying these "Must Have" Diaper Bags by Storksak. Storksak has been featured on the Rachel Ray Show, The Ellen Degeneres Show, and The View. Elegantly designed with a modern mom's tastes in mind, Storksak Baby Bags are practical with multiple inside pockets for your accessories, insulated pockets for your bottles, and a stain resistant changing pad. The Storksak diaper bag collection offers the latest in sleek style choices with multiple features. Designing contemporary fashionable and functional fabric and leather baby bags. Price range $150.00-$450.00

Timi and Leslie
TIMI & LESLIE, INC. was originally founded in the spring of 2000. A Los Angeles based company, Timi and Leslie met through their comic ties to the legendary Los Angeles Groundling's Theatre. Leslie's designs are known for their bold, original and vintage looks that are both whimsical and sophisticated and come in a variety of practical silhouettes. She designs two to three collections a year producing "scrumptious" bags that set the scene for future trends. Price range $150.00-$400.00

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Rugged Diaper Bags for the Manly Man








Scout Rubicon Rucksack - Black Buffalo Leather by Petunia Pickle Bottom
The Rubicon Rucksack in black leather offers Dad a macho alternative to the traditional diaper bag. This baby bag ensures he’s equipped with all the necessities no matter his destination; from changing pad to magazine pocket, he’ll always be prepared.
  • The leather Rubicon Rucksack comes with two interchangeable interior linings. They "snap out" and convert from a diaper bag to a laptop bag.
  • Diaper Bag Lining Insert: 2 pockets for easy "reach and grab", 1 large magnetic snap pocket and 2 bottle pockets.
  • Padded Laptop Lining Insert: 1 Laptop pocket and 2 easy "reach and grab" pockets.
  • 2 exterior bottle pockets that "snap off" to create a laptop bag
  • 2 large exterior pockets; 1 wide flat back magazine pocket and 1 front pocket with magnetic snap and leather cell phone pocket
  • Convenient water resistant changing pad with "snap-in" compartment for storage
  • Custom Low Profile Handle situated on the back top of bag is a hidden flat folded pocket handle designed for ease of lifting the bag with one hand
  • Custom Scout monogrammed plastic wipes case in coordinating color
  • Leather Valet stroller clips with storage bag
  • Adjustable shoulder strap adjusts from 41"-52"
  • Custom antique brass hardware with debossed logos
  • Dimensions : 14"L x 16" W x 14"H x 5.5"D
  • How to clean: Leather needs to be professionally cleaned.
  • Reviewed as best Daddy diaper bag by babble.com
The Petunia Pickle Bottom line of diaper bags, baby gear, linens and layette is distinguished by its fearless sense of style, innovation in design and distinctly fashionable look making each and every one of their luxurious products true must-haves for parents. It is no wonder why Petunia Pickle Bottom is one of the most sought after brand of diaper bags on the market today! From the Original Collection to Scout and Cake, each meticulously designed baby bag is beautiful enough to be considered a collectable yet perfectly functional and practical for everyday use.
SIZE: 14 x 16 x 5 inches.
MSRP: 271.00 USD




Mia Bossi Rex (Available in Desert, Night and Trooper) MSRP 310.00 On sale $225.00

Let's hear it for the boys! Our bag for men made with a striped canvas, trimmed with Italian leather, and finished with brass hardware.
Dimensions: 15.5" (h) x 3" (w) x 13" (l)
Features:
  • Machine washable faux fur changing pad
  • Zip-in and zip-out inside lining (additional insert for computer or briefcase available)
  • Cell phone holder
  • Two exterior bottle holders
  • Two interior bottle holders
  • One private zippered pocket
  • Keychain holder
  • Diaper holder
  • Baby wipe holder
  • Private zippered pocket for personal belongings


  Ju Ju Be Messenger MSRP: 120.00 USD Convenient—yet masculine—features of Dad’s Ju-Ju-Be Messenger diaper bag include a separate pouch for diapers or a change of clothes that snaps into place with magnets; panel with key clip, pen holders, cell phone pocket; and pocket with sunglasses case that works to clean your lenses so you don’t have to! Waterproof nylon linings and removable diaper changing pad are treated for anti-microbial protection and outside pocket for bottles is insulated to keep bottles warm or cool. The adjustable handle has a memory foam shoulder pad with a grippy textile underneath and the magnetic closure makes it easy to close the bag without fumbling.

Ju-Ju-Be provides today's parents with the best of technology, style and attitude. This functional collection of diaper bags is intelligent while still fashionable and fun! Every Ju-Ju-Be diaper bag features a brightly-colored satin waterproof lining with a special antimicrobial treatment to kill germs, mildew, fungus and bacteria. Other smart features include a comfy memory foam changing pad, Teflon® fabric protector to keep stains at bay, insulated bottle pockets, quiet and easy magnet closures, a "daddy pocket" with easy access and tons of great organization, and special "crumb drains" at the bottom of the bag pockets so crumbs stay out of your bag and out of your way. The convenience of a Ju-Ju-Be diaper bag just can’t be beat!

Add-ons are available to suit your particular needs. Bag is available in Black/Silver or Khaki/Mandarin.