How Disappointing...

What if your baby swallowed/choked on one of these?

My previous post mentioned briefly about the Black Walnut Cake Hampton Holdall being defective. Well, I tested my Berry Chiffon Holdall tonight and believe it or not, TWO snaps popped right off! One on each handle. My husband and I both froze and I did almost cry. Then I got really upset and angry.  I have not had any problems with my other CAKEs, not even the cake pulls. I am now wondering if this is the problem across the board. Someone should go into the warehouse and test every single one of those hampton holdalls. These snaps do not last for who knows, 10 seconds? I mean, seriously? My husband and  mother-in-law bought me these pricey gifts and now they are both just waiting to be sent back? I have been so excited and now it's just a mess.

I don't know how many expectant buyers read this, but somehow I don't want you or your husband spend this kind of money on something that isn't going to last. I don't wish on you dropping your bag in the middle of the street with a baby in arm.

I hope to get a reply from Petunia soon, if any.

::Update::
Petunia wrote me back and said they will test the bags out before sending them out to me. I said, no thanks!

::e-mail from Bradon Jones, CEO of PPB::
As you may know, we spend months and months testing and re-testing fabrics, designs and hardware and always get frustrated when something simple like this happens.   Because of this, are testing 100% of them at our warehouse.

::Review:: Hampton Holdall in Black Walnut CAKE

When I was seven, I would race home to eat the last piece of cake before my sister beat me to it. That, was exactly how I felt when I left work today. This time, nobody "cares to" fight though.  It is a beautiful 80 degrees spring day, and my package just sat on the porch waiting for my return.

Here they are, my first glance. 

They came swaddled! Like new babies... (okay, it's not 'that' funny..I get it.)

Ta-da! My new baby CAKE! I'd say I had no clue what a black walnut looks like so I googled it.

This is a black walnut

Here is a black walnut cake! 

Now I am drooling as I type. 

Anyhow, I know you must be curious what the big hype (in me) is about the Hampton Holdall to stop at my blog. Here it is. The turn lock that features on the Society Satchel is on this baby as well.  I love it, it is a nice touch. 

The back pocket features a zipper pocket. Small enough for random things like maybe a ... I really can't think of anything to put in there right now. I am sure your kids will think of something for ya. I am not sure if the cake pull is improved and how well it will hold up. Many cake pulls have broken on the bottom of the cosmopolitan carryalls so I say, be gentle! Oh, and I am sure there will be less injury for the pull now that it's not located on the bottom compartment.  (And there is no bottom compartment in the holdall.) 

This is what you will see once you open the top flap. Be gentle with those cake pulls. I have said it twice. 

Here is a bottle holder. I say it's definitely big enough for a wide neck bottle or a sippy or your own water bottle.  I am sure a beer bottle would fit JUST FINE, too. 

LOOK AT ME! It's a snap. It hides the ring when you aren't hanging it to the stroller. How SMART is that? I say this is the best detail I have noticed with the bag. Very creative. The Society Satchel basically has one hole on each side. To me, this is way more clever. 

It is huge! You can fit everything you need for one baby for sure. I said that but this can probably handle two if you don't need extra bottle pockets. I know nursing moms carry a lot less, but I also understand cloth diaper moms need more space. So...I really can't say. I have two babies, but I don't really use my CAKE when I am out with them unless showing off is on my agenda. You know? (like tomorrow...) 

So here you see, a zipper pocket with a cake pull (be gentle!) and two pockets. That is IT. No more pockets. It is definitely deep. 

Here are all the cutsy accessories that came with - 

Long messenger strap, Coin purse, Stroller clips, Dust bag, Wipes case (which I never ever use but I may start to) 

This is a changing pad that looks similar to what comes with the Sashay Satchel.  I am not sure why it was downgraded to the canvas sort-of material...a little disappointed. It doesn't seem like it'd be easy to clean or be comfortable for my baby's tushie. 

I hope you enjoyed the close shots.  I am not a PPB expert, just a mommy who is obsessed with their CAKE collection.  Thanks for reading and I hope to post some carrying/stroller shots this weekend. And yes, I haven't figured out how the messenger strap would go. I am a shoulder bag kind of gal. 

ciao~ 

Buy a Petunia Pickle Bottom Black Walnut Cake!

JuJuBe?

Lately I have switched my PPB obsession to JuJuBe! What? You heard that right! Never cared for their prints, loved the organization and all, but not a fan of busy prints. Yet, when I saw the marvelous mums BFF at Nordstrom 2 months ago, I had to tap myself on the head many times to make sure I am thinking straight.  I stood there and felt the bag, it was amazingly lightweight. My husband was very surprised to see me being sucked into a bag that isn't a PPB.

Yeah, it was pretty, but not enough to convince me to convert me yet! Well, when babysteals held the contest and revealed the new blossoms prints, I could only hold my breath. Now THAT is a perfect match! You've got mommy pockets (and a pouch for your sunglasses), machine washable bags, padded shoulder straps, a messenger straps, and the new delightful prints. So I was sold.

Here are my new Cobalt Blossoms BFF and Cobalt Blossoms Be Quick

For now, my JuJuBe will replace the boxy backpack as well as the touring totes. The pockets and washable options just win it all. Hopefully PPB will one day improve the issues with the glazed bags.  Less heavy and more clean-ability? I know some stains can be wiped off, however, the blue stain comes from my jeans don't seem to come off.

I think it's time to rename this blog. 

Although, when exactly are the new cake coming out? 

::Cake:: Spring, 2011

While waiting for rice to be cooked, I clicked, clicked, and stumbled across this...

It certainly is another delicious CAKE.  The shape reminds me of the Sashay Satchel from the fall 2010 line, but the look is way classier. I wonder if the straps are the same as the ones on the Sashay Satchels.  Also, it might look silly to be wearing backpack style. Who knows? It sure will be perfect on your shoulder, stroller, and in your office! 

Parisian Pansy Touring Tote

                                      


Oldies but goodies! I am not a pink mom even with two baby girls.  The hello kitty pink? No, thanks! There is no reason to accessorize in so called girlie colors because you worrying about what others think. If they want to think of your little man as a girl...alrighty then.  They are strangers, who cares? Yet when I came across the Parisian Pansy Touring Tote by PPB, I thought the pink was romantic and its softness reminds me of a mother's love and care.  It sure is girlie, the kind that I would go for at least.

::Review::Sashay Satchel

 

How has the summer heat treating you mamas? I have been spending most of my vacation in the air conditioned room with my big belly and now with my NEWBORN! Hope everyone's had a wonderful time with the kiddos! Now, I know everyone including me has been anxiously awaiting for fall collection's debut.  The date is set - Sep. 15, 2010! Thought I saw somewhere on the facebook fanpage the new collection was due to come out in July, guess the summer heat has not been very motivating.

Well, if you are a fan on Petunia's fan page, which I know you are if you are reading this...new styles will be released for fall 2010, and as I am writing this review, some Sashay Satchels have even been shipped to Nordstroms nationwide a month before they are available at retails! I heard there were three prints available for the Sashay Satchel, yet my Nordie only has two of the three - Rambling Rose and Daisydew Drops! So antsy to see the third one!

So here is my little review on the Sashay Satchel I have had for less than 12 hours.  I was in awe when I saw the Rambling Rose! So vibrant! Definitely a light weight diaper bag, too! The top handles are comfortable and gentle to your shoulders. The backpack option is an excellent bonus. (Although I wish the top handles were removable while carrying on my back) And again, pocket galore! 1 large front pocket(magnetic closure) with 2 mini pockets, 4 bottle pockets, 1 zipper pockets inside, 1 wipes case pocket, and 1 changing pad pocket! If you are like me who is in charge of holding husband's car keys, the key fob comes in handy, too!

Rambling Rose Sashay Satchel

Petunia! The same pull as the ones on the Touring Totes!

The front pocket took me by surprise! Magnetic closure with easy access with Mommy essentials! 

4 bottle pockets - 2 outer + 2 inner 

inner bottle pockets (one on each end)

PPB wipes case + Oversized changing pad (largest I have seen, which I'd definitely use! Not as plush as the ones in the Touring Toes or the Cake, but much bigger and when folded away it doesn't take up much space) 

Wipes Case + Changing Pad Pockets, Key fob, Zipper pocket

Backpack Option (see the 2 little pockets on both sides? That's where the backpack straps "hide", ingenious!!!)

Rambling Rose in the Sun

Petunia designs diaper bags with Mommy's multitasking needs in mind.
(I know, not my best hair day..well, she is 21 days old!)   

Sashay Satchel on a 5'5'' Mommy

Overall, it's a beautiful designer diaper bags with fashionable mommy's needs in mind.  The size is greater that the touring tote for sure, but not as roomy as the boxy.  Depends what kind of diaper bag packer you are, this bag may just be the right fit for you. And at $89? Maybe a perfect shower gift that'd blow the new mommy's mind away :) 

::Review:: Limited Edition PPB Boxy Backpacks at Nordstrom

I am not familiar with the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.  Obviously if I had a Nordie's card, I'd be in so much more trouble than I already am.  Several mamas on the Petunia Mama's page were able to get an appointment to sneak peek at the Petunia Pickle Bottom boxy backpacks that are specially designed for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.  I think this might be a once a year deal and when they are out, they are out.  The best part about these LE bags is the price.  You only pay $99+tax during the pre-sale or sale, instead of the regular $167+tax! A delicious Petunia Boxy for $99 is a steal, and think about it...no one else will have it since it's only exclusively sold at Nordie's!

There are three patterns, but I only saw two at the store.   

Meander in Marseilles

To me one looks similar to that of the India Ink color scheme but the pattern is almost the same as the Strolling in Salzburg. 

  Wandering Through Wales

The other one's pattern is close to that of Rhone Blooms and the color scheme is the same as Misty Shanghai. I definitely drooled. 

Thanks to my dear Petunia Mama Jill who first shared the stock photos on the Nordstrom Anniversary Catalog!! 

::Review:: India Ink Touring Tote

How many of you need a purse that can serve as a beautiful diaper bag? My first Petunia was indeed a touring tote ( Morning in Mumbai to be exact!). It was love at first sight. Being my first Petunia, its vibrant color scheme just blew me away the day I received it...Of course and every time I get the " That's a diaper bag???!!!" scream from a random stranger or a coworker.

The touring totes can be quite lovable and useful! I find the long messenger strap to be extremely comfortable on my shoulder and only use the short hobo strap when it's hung on a stroller. There's really no need to switch the straps back and forth though as the long messenger is adjustable. Did I mention it hangs on the stroller? A set of well made Petunia valet clips are included in every touring tote! If you are like me who carries a 18oz. Kleen Kanteen bottle, you'd be so happy that it fits in the bottle holders.  One holder for the sippy, and the other for the mommy who gets real thirsty after chasing the toddler around.

As my Petunia fever burst this Spring, I crazily searched for the classic pattern- India Ink. I fell in love with the clutch and once realized the touring tote was discounted and hard to find... man! That definitely put me on an urge to located one. Petunia is a collectible brand, have you realized?

To top its functionality, the India ink Touring Tote is now the home of my new iPad. I think they are love at first sight as well :) Steve Jobs cannot compete with THAT! (let alone they don't even produce enough iPad cases for all the iPads they manufacture?)

To buy one: Madison and Friends 

::Sale:: Surprise Two Day Sale 6/29-6/30!

When: 6/29-6/30 9PST/12EST

What: Touring Totes, 

Sojourn Slings, 

Boxy Backpacks, 

Sightseer Carriers, 

Layette Gift Sets,  

Cross Town Clutches

Where: Petunia Outlet

Who: US Residents (Sorry Sarah! I know it sucks they don't ship to Canada!)

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Many new or die hard Petunia fans have been dying for another outlet sale.  Last night around 9pm EST, Petunia announced the news that makes every PPB mama do the happy dance! It's the 2 Day Surprise Outlet Sale!!!

The first detail I searched for was WHAT was going to be included in the sale.  Now, I don't see CAKE and I am just a little down about that.  Don't get me wrong, all PPB products are gorgeous, but it's just that CAKE who always gets me.  

This is definitely a perfect opportunity for any PPB fan to stock up on bags to give out at baby showers or add on to the existing collections.  I'd say you can never go wrong with the touring totes and the boxy backpacks.  Touring totes can be used as diaper bags or purses and the boxy backpacks are roomy enough for a long day out or if you have two kids' worth of stuff.  (Or if you tend to over pack like I do) 

Have fun mama's! 

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Oh I really can't believe there really IS some CAKE to make my drool.  Too bad the only carryall included in the outlet sale is the Mocha Berry Cream Cake...not really my kind of cake, but good deal at $209! If you want a cake carryall, try Polka Dot Panda, they still have some Pistachio Layer Cake Carryalls left.  Not at $209 but not the original $349 either! 

How much can a Cosmopolitan Carryall hold?

It is very likely for someone who's never seen the Petunia Pickle Bottom Cosmopolitan Carryall in person mistaken it as a beautiful purse that "is not" very functional. If you do get one because you have this exceptional taste...I assure you someone might stop you somewhere and compliment on that gorgeous thing on your shoulder and as you start telling her what your baby's name is, she actually meant, no! that "other" baby on your "other" shoulder.  Ha, I know that is enough to make you blush.  You love the attention your CAKE brings you, but you often wonder if it's stealing the spotlight off of your charming little princess wooing away in the Bugaboo. 

A lot of times, beauty and functionality don't go hand-in-hand.  Yet recent years, lots of talented baby product designers have turned the baby retail world upside down and inside out.  Has Petunia Pickle Bottom done her homework? Oh yeah, since like a decade ago! Although the Cake collection has just made its appearance in recent years, the cosmopolitan carryall has become fashionable moms who don't want to give up function an easy way out.  We no longer have to pay top $ for a Burberry diaper bag that, well, breaks your arm and bank. 

Here is how Petunia present it:

Vintage style meets current-day functionality for the sophisticated mom on the go! This doctor style bag is done in aster pink and chocolate European cut velvet with coordinating aster pink wool tweed and aster pink lining. Versatile bag features detachable padded shoulder straps and a detachable messenger-style strap. Additional features include zippered changing station with plush pad and wipes case, interior key clip, two interior and two exterior bottle pockets, exterior cell phone pocket, and three internal and three external pockets.

These photos will wow you..see just how much you are able to fit in this baby!

The key clip is a life saver and all the pockets keep you organized!

As you can see...I was able to fit 2 wide-neck bottles plus all the other essentials!

One of my favorites - 2 back pockets

This is where I keep my hand lotion, lip balm, and iPhone.

::Review::Red Velvet Cake Cosmopolitan Carryall

Yes, another cake.  I do realize how many reviews I have done on Cake, but I just can't help it.  Now you already know its functionality, I want you to focus on the true unresistingly delicious color palate on each one of them.

Why red? So bald and unmistakably sexy! I'd guess most moms dream about going back to their childless era and rock their Gucci bags down the street in skinny jeans and high heels once awhile.  It is not impossible, but we as mothers sacrifice fashion for function and sometimes we no longer accessorize to impress.  If a diaper bag has got all the pockets, diapers are refilled, wipes are in place, snacks are within reach, change of clothes are packed...and with that unbeatable smile on our angel's face, it brings the greatest feeling in the world.  But don't stop right there, you no longer have to substitute Vintage Chanel for Winnie the Pooh, Petunia has baked you a beautiful and functional cake that carries all the necessities above and make you feel confident and gorgeous again!

  

Many of my non-mommy friends always question my expenses on diaper bags (just PPB to be exact) because they believe it's just a bag that holds "dirty" baby stuff and gets poop on.  Wait, no! My PPB has always stayed put on the stroller handle or on a clean surface.  My husband even appreciates how well made and lovely these babies are, he looks over at me to receive instructions on where to place it in public.  And to add to it, you never plop any purse down on a floor! No matter how much it costs.  The germs attached to the bottom of the bag just won't cut it for your family's health.

  

Now many of you already know the Red Velvet Cake is the limited edition... It will be gone before you know it so order yours while you still can!