Snippet and Ink Honeymoon Bag Giveway Q+A: Entry Number 5

This entry completes answers to all of the 85 questions that were submitted...WHEW!

j00hee said...
What a great idea! I love the 'subtle way' of telling people you're on your honeymoon! It reminds me of the Friends episode when Chandler and Monica went on their honeymoon, haha. My honeymoon question: what are some of the essentials that need to be packed, and what are some things that can be left at home? As for my dream honeymoon, I would have to discuss it with the future husband! But, I would want to go someplace beautiful with chilly nights, so we can snuggle up with each other. :]
ANSWER: Thank you. Yes, it’s subtle and cute. Chilly nights = fun + romance! Here are my packing tips for setting the honey-mood, along with tips on how to enjoy your honeymoon packing experience!This is your special time and the honeymoon goose-bumps begin the moment you and your hubby-to-be select your special destination. Packing for this trip shouldn’t be a chore. Here are quick tips to set the mood and enjoy the experience of packing for your sexiest trip ever!

Light Candles- It will strike a sensual mood as you pack your sexiest under-things and sort out what you might want to wear on the actual wedding night.

Sexy Tunes- Play your favorite music or some smooth jazz to put you at easy and make you feel romantic. Take a listen to Pandora.com- you can customize your play list or get a classic CD like “The Very Best of Roberta Flack,” play it while you pack and then on your wedding night.

Toast to You- Lay off the wedding planning stress and take a moment to plan for the private times you will be sharing with your new husband while sipping on your favorite cocktail or a nice glass of wine.

Plan the perfect escape— Pack like you’re eloping or think of yourself as sexy secret agent whose mission is to entice and be inspired by love. Take Sexy Stock: Lay all of your new purchases and gifts from your shower or bachelorette party to get an idea of what new nighties and sexy underwear he might like to see…and on what night.

Maritza’s Packing Tips inspired by the Honeymoon Bag.
THINK BEACH CHIC. Find a carry-on, that’s a carry-all and acts as a travel tote and beach bag. A good rule of thumb is to fill it with everything you need for your flight and your first escape to the beach. Should your check-in luggage get delayed, your first trip to the sands won’t be compromised.
CHANNEL YOUR INNER GLOW. Mascara, concealer, blush, lip gloss and a hydrating face spray is all you should need. Your inner bridal glow will take care of the rest. However, this is the perfect excuse to check out your favorite cosmetic counters for a lip and blush set that speaks to your mood and honeymoon destination. Many cosmetic companies look to exotic locales to create palettes represented by hot spots like the South Pacific, Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Added bonus: Tell your sales rep that you’re going on your honeymoon and she might give you some travel-size free samples. ***If you have room add a powdered bronzer or tinted moisturizerBoth of these products are designed to give you an effortlessly, natural glow. It’s just a matter of preference as to which you want to use. A neat trick is to use both. First apply a tinted moisturizer and then follow with a powdered bronzer on places where the sun naturally hits your face (forehead, tip of your nose, apple of your cheeks and tip of your chin) while leaving the other areas of your skin dewy courtesy of the tinted moisturizer. Stila’s Sheer Color tinted moisturizer is easy to use and comes in a variety of shades with an SPF of 15. It’s light, hydrating formula is ideal for all skin types and will make your face radiate under candlelight.
PRACTICE SAFE SKIN. Pack easy-to-use products that both you and your hubby can share. A product like Coppertone’s No-Rub Sunscreen is great because it’s a continuous spray that provides quick and even coverage and, best of all, its waterproof.
THINK EASY-SEXY HAIR. Pack a bottle of aloe vera gel— aside from alleviating redness and providing moisture after a day out in the sun, you can mix it with water to spritz and cool off while on the beach. Aloe vera also acts as a great pomade to tame fly-aways and eliminate frizz. A neat trick is to apply aloe vera gel to wet hair and let dry naturally to get coveted beach waves.
THINK DATE NIGHT. Now’s the perfect time to show-stop with stilettos that make you look and feel your sexiest, but can’t be tolerated for long periods of time. You know the pair you purchased for a romantic dinner date, but never seem to wear—the moment has finally arrived…dust off the dinner heels…its date night!
THINK SCENTSATIONAL. A very important part of your honeymoon beauty routine should be spraying on the right fragrance. Remember your choice fragrance will serve to remind you of your magical vacation for years to come. Since scent is undoubtedly linked to memory, select a fragrance that is reminiscent of your destination. Lots of cosmetic companies are developing fragrances that are destination driven and evoke the smell of the islands. A great one is Beach by Bobbi Brown.
THINK NO NIGHT-NIGHT NIGHTY. It’s traditional and memorable to wear white lingerie on your honeymoon night, but keep things spicy and unexpected by wearing a red panty under traditional wedding night white.

Jeanne said...
My question is: My fiance thinks I am possibly crazy for the amount of dresses I want to buy for our 7 day Caribbean beach trip. I am expecting to be lounging around in pretty dresses, and he thinks I need more active clothes. I don't want to pack everything I own. What is a good balance of outfits to pack for Jamaica?
ANSWER: Rock those dresses! If you’re a girly girl at heart then go for it. I feel a very Sex and The City/Carrie inspiration coming on…do you? Remember to add in a dark + sexy jean and a sporty short or a short jumper set…that could be very cute. Email pictures from your cruise ensemble and I’ll post them! Here’s another tip…since you are going on a cruise…you might be able to get away with taking more…you should rock an old fashioned train case (email me if you want leads) or an old-fashioned small steam trunk. Call ahead to see what you can get away with on the boat.

Elizabeth said...
Fiance and I are kind of travel virgins so I could bombard you with questions-- I'll try my best to keep it at one! Our honeymoon (looking into AI resorts) will be our first trip out of the country and we are considering working with a travel agent. I have the same question as a few other ladies on here-- is there an advantage (other than possibly holding onto what little sanity I still have left after wedding planning) to working with a travel agent when booking an all-inclusive vacation?
ANSWER: Yes, lots of advantages like savings, dining advice, insider discounts, etc. Try www.moonrings.com.

Babbi's World said...
question: i've been told to splurge on the honey moon rather than the wedding since the wedding is only a day, but the pictures an memories are forever! So how wise is this?My perfect honey moon would be borA bora....We'll probably go to hawaii instead.
ANSWER: I am of the same mind-set. The wedding is for you and others (that’s special and important of course), but the honeymoon is just for you two and should be as memorable as the wedding!!

jiddle said...
My fiance and I are planning our honeymoon now, so perfect timing on the giveaway! We are exploring many options because we have many rewards points we would love to redeem (i.e. airlines, car rentals, hotel chains, etc), but I am a little nervous about using them for the honeymoon. What do you suggest, or what have you experienced? Do you have any other suggestions on getting the most bang for your buck on your honeymoon?
ANSWER: Great, check out the Honeymoon Bag at www.beautygram.com. You get a free beauty product with every order. Yes, use those reward NOW—you won’t regret it. My hubby and I cashed in points with different sources and loved it— the money you save really adds up!!

Beanorama said...
I feel like I am becoming a professional bridesmaid lately, so any fresh gift ideas for my lovely brides -- like this bag -- are certainly welcome.My sweet ginger-haired bride is getting married in April, and this would be perfect for her.Question from a bridesmaid perspective about honeymoons: do brides appreciate gifts such as a pre-arranged meal or massage waiting for the newlyweds at their hotel?
ANSWER: Great check out the Honeymoon Bag at www.beautygram.com. They make a great gift every time…lots of options. You can purchase it by itself or with cosmetic goodies inside. Yes, that’s a really sweet token and they will always treasure it. I got my girlfriend flowers for her honeymoon suite and she loved the gesture…you can try that too.
Lisa said...
Great bag! My question:When is the best time to book your honeymoon? Way in advance or a few months before you wedding?My dream honeymoon would be an African safari & then lounging in the Maldives.
ANSWER: Way in advance is always the safer and wiser bet! More time to search, better chance at finding deals.

ABBY said...
I'd love a honeymoon bag!My honeymoon is a suprise for me, but I do know that it will be tropical.. My question is: is it always worth asking for a honeymoon upgrade? Or is there a way to know where we're more likely to get it vs. places that won't give anything extra?
ANSWER: They are available at www.beautygram.com. Yes, it is always worth asking for an upgrade…the worst that could happen (usually) is that they compensate with something else.

Vanna said...
Love the bag! We're going to Disneyworld - what should I take to look stylish but still be amusement park friendly?
ANSWER: Thank you. Cute idea!! You’ll have a magically sweet time. Flirty sundresses and comfy wedges are the way to go. Don’t forget to throw in some bangles too. You’ll be chic and comfortable which is key!!

Jade said...
This bag looks so cute-AND it has the potential to get you free honeymoon schwag! Sign me up! I am hoping to honeymoon in Italy.
ANSWER: Be sure to pick one up at www.beautygram.com now that the giveaway is over. Thank you for the warm comments.

kathy said...
HI!! My question (and entry for this competition) is on behalf of a dear friend who's getting married in two weeks!! they have a unique work situation where the first year of their marriage will be spent long distance and despite that, they just couldn't wait to be husband and wife! They can't take their dream honeymoon until after that first year so what honeymoon advice would you give to them, a wonderful couple already married for a year! she doesn't even know i'm entering this in for her...hahaha! she'll be so surprised!
ANSWER: Ahhh…how romantic. I would say to try and take a mini-moon before their year apart. VERY IMPORTANT. In the meantime, they can save for the big honeymoon plans and write love letters to each other. They can develop a “travel diary” in preparation and cut out pictures and information of where they might want to jet off to.

word bird said...
Tres cute bag. My question is whether or not it's best to tell the hotels an flights upfront that you're on your honeymoon or book it and once you show up then tell them about it to get a nice upgrade. I am very confused about this point.Our dream honeymoon consists of travelling the world, firstly backpacking through Europe followed by a relaxing week on the beaches of Thailand and then home to our newlywed nest to hunker down and settle into married life as our normal life.
ANSWER: Thank you!!! Yes, call the resort/hotel up in advance—there is no harm in doing this. Ask for a manager. Sometimes resorts have a “romance specialist” or a “honeymoon expert” of sorts. Ask for them. Good luck!!

Mary said...
Very cute bags! I'd like to know if the all-inclusive packages are really worth it and any cool recommendations in the Caribbean.(Bag and question for my SIL.)My honeymoon was in the Provence region of France. Each morning, we ate pan au chocolat on our balcony overlooking the Mediterranean, planning our day. We rented a car and visited different towns. Wineries, beaches, museums, perfume factories, restaurants... Heavenly. I can't wait to go back!
ANSWER: It depends. All-inclusives are good values, but boutique hotels tend to be more quaint, personal and memorable. If you plan on eating and drinking to your hearts content then go with an all-inclusive.

Lisa Woj said...
What tips do you have for making a honeymoon feel more special than a regular trip? We are going to honeymoon in Greece. Our plan is to spend a day or two in Athens and then visit Crete, Santorini, Mykonos and Delos. This is our dream honeymoon--the only thing we would possibly change is being able to stay longer and see some of the less touristy islands!
ANSWER: For one, the packing experience. Here’s a way to make it memorable. Also, the sheer ratio of lingerie to out-door clothing!!
This is your special time and the honeymoon goose-bumps begin the moment you and your hubby-to-be select your special destination. Packing for this trip shouldn’t be a chore. Here are quick tips to set the mood and enjoy the experience of packing for your sexiest trip ever! Light Candles- It will strike a sensual mood as you pack your sexiest under-things and sort out what you might want to wear on the actual wedding night.
Sexy Tunes- Play your favorite music or some smooth jazz to put you at easy and make you feel romantic. Take a listen to Pandora.com- you can customize your play list or get a classic CD like “The Very Best of Roberta Flack,” play it while you pack and then on your wedding night.Toast to You- Lay off the wedding planning stress and take a moment to plan for the private times you will be sharing with your new husband while sipping on your favorite cocktail or a nice glass of wine. Plan the perfect escape— Pack like you’re eloping or think of yourself as sexy secret agent whose mission is to entice and be inspired by love. Take Sexy Stock: Lay all of your new purchases and gifts from your shower or bachelorette party to get an idea of what new nighties and sexy underwear he might like to see…and on what night.
To view my packing tips go to www.beautygram.com.

Christian said...
Love the honeymoon bag!!! My question is this: we're actually postponing the real blowout big honeymoon until our 1st anniversay, but we will be doing a mini-moon after the wedding. How do we tactfully tell people who untactfully ask why we are doing this?
ANSWER: Thank you…love it too. Tell them you want to get away for a little while after the wedding and are saving for a bigger splurge later…there’s no harm in that. Or, just say you’re going away after the honeymoon and it’s a secret…if you don’t want to be bothered with any type of questioning. People will be respecting the bride on the day of the wedding—they won’t bother you too much.

Tobi said...
How handy would this be! We're spending 5 days in Puerto Rico and then going on a 7 day cruise and we. can't. wait. My question for you is, we have not yet booked airfare. Its gone up $20 this week over last week. When do you think the best time to buy airfare is? Also is there any point in booking that through an agent?
ANSWER: Companies like www.moonrings.com get you good deals. Book early especially with the decrease in flights nowadays.

alice said...
What a handy-dandy bag! Okay, so I have so many questions regarding the whole wedding planning process, but many include questions about the honeymoon! We have not nailed down a place yet, but would love for it to be unique, relaxing and beautiful- what couple wouldnt, right? So, the big question is- how do you find a honeymoon destination that is perfect for the two of you?
ANSWER: Seek a venue that speaks to the two of you. It’s it a beach hideaway? Does it serve favored cuisine? Does it offer spa therapy, etc? If you two are into recreation- what’s on their menu—that type of thing.

anne said...
This is a great bag! Love the color and versatility!My question for Maritza is simple: book your own trip online or with a travel agency? Which is best?
ANSWER: Thank you!! You can certainly book your own trip (no harm in that), but I would go with www.moonrings.com. We used them for our honeymoon and we we’re really happy we did. Very affordable!

Chelsea Belle said...
First things first: The bag. LOVE IT. What a fabulous idea! Maritza, My guy and I share many things in common, but our idea's of a romantic getaway are split between an action packed adventure, and a relaxing, low-key event. Of course we are more than willing to comprimise, but how do you choose your destination based on two separate agendas?Thanks for your input in advance, and good luck to my fellow honeymooners!
ANSWER: Thank you Chelsea!! I would settle on a place that provided relaxation and recreation. Cabo is a good place to hit for both. Hawaii is another one!

steph said...
Can you make the bag say "honeymoon bag" in different languages so that those of us going to exotic locations for our honeymoon can reap the benefits too?! Thanks :)
ANSWER: Good idea…maybe in the future. Right now it’s pretty universally understood.

Jess said...
This is an adorable bag. My question about honeymoon packing is honestly, where do I start? I have awhile before my wedding, but I know it will end up coming up faster than I imagined. Where do I start on packing for my honeymoon? what are the most important things to remember?As far as my hoped for honeymoon, my fiance and I would love to just get away up in the mountains somewhere in a nice cabin. I don't want to go completely rustic, I will need clean bathrooms and a kitchen, but as long as I have that, a fire, and my husband, it will be perfect.
ANSWER: This is your special time and the honeymoon goose-bumps begin the moment you and your hubby-to-be select your special destination. Packing for this trip shouldn’t be a chore. Here are quick tips to set the mood and enjoy the experience of packing for your sexiest trip ever! Light Candles- It will strike a sensual mood as you pack your sexiest under-things and sort out what you might want to wear on the actual wedding night.
Sexy Tunes- Play your favorite music or some smooth jazz to put you at easy and make you feel romantic. Take a listen to Pandora.com- you can customize your play list or get a classic CD like “The Very Best of Roberta Flack,” play it while you pack and then on your wedding night.Toast to You- Lay off the wedding planning stress and take a moment to plan for the private times you will be sharing with your new husband while sipping on your favorite cocktail or a nice glass of wine. Plan the perfect escape— Pack like you’re eloping or think of yourself as sexy secret agent whose mission is to entice and be inspired by love. Take Sexy Stock: Lay all of your new purchases and gifts from your shower or bachelorette party to get an idea of what new nighties and sexy underwear he might like to see…and on what night.
View tips at www.beautygram.com.

Laura said...
I'm entering for my friend getting married next summer! I just got married and went to Costa Rica on my honeymoon, and realized I could have packed more efficiently. What tips do you have on mixing and matching to get the most out of your wardrobe while packing light?
ANSWER: Take pieces that work for day and night…like leggings, sundresses, dressy shorts and capris.

jackiewd said...
Cute bag! I enjoy your beautiful images and boards.
ANSWER: Thanks!!!!!

Katelin said...
Ooooohhh... what a great idea! My question has to do with the exact purpose of the bag: What is the most polite and gracious way to ask for upgrades and/or freebies on your honeymoon? I imagine there's a classy way of attempting to take advantage of the opportunity, right?We're off to the West Indies for a month in October. I can't wait!!!
ANSWER: Just carry the Honeymoon Bag around naturally—people will notice. If you are afraid to ask for an upgrade in person….1) try carrying the bag and/or 2) calling prior to your arrival. You might feel more comfortable asking questions over the phone vs. in-person.

alicia said...
What do you think of mini-moons and how long is too long to wait to take a honeymoon? Our vision is to go to Sayulita, Mexico, for a surfing mini-moon right after the wedding. Then, later that year, we want to go to Alaska and stay in all the grand lodges. It's the perfect blend of warm and cold, yet adventure!
ANSWER: I love mini-moons and it’s never too late to take a honeymoon! My friend waited a year and a half—that’s okay too. Whatever works for you!

Erica said...
I LOVE the bag, and hope that it works. Here's my question: if using frequent flier miles AND hotel points for the honeymoon, should you book the flights or the rooms first? I don't want change/cancellation fees!
ANSWER: I guess I would book the one with the most point value first.

K said...
Great bag! We are going on our first cruise to the Western Carribean in October for our honeymoon. Do you know if we will have to use the honeymoon bag to pack shower items, like shampoo and body wash, or will it be provided by the cruise ship? Also, do I really need to bring several bathing suits or do you think I can get away with the same one for 7 days :)
ANSWER: Hotels provide toiletries so I would imagine cruise ships might as well. Look at your amenities list for a true answer as I don’t know the name of your cruise line. I would probably bring along two for a seven day stint.

Morgan said...
I love this idea! The bag is SO fun!My question is: "What is your best money saving tip when traveling in Europe?"I hope for a very budget-friendly honeymoon that is still fun and memorable!
ANSWER: Book through www.moonrings.com they are travel abroad experts.

LINDSAY said...
cute cute bag! It would be great schlupping around all of my stuff in Hawaii.My question: What are some things newlyweds forget to pack for their honeymoon? Is bottled water allowed on the plane? Haha
ANSWER: Thank you. Yes, bottled water is allowed on the plane when purchased after security check-in. People forget to pack sun screen, phone chargers and camera chargers…remember these devices. Have fun!

RH said...
I am going on my honeymoon in 2 weeks!! We're going to Hawaii (Honolulu and Kona). My question is very simple - what's the best way to enjoy and make it a memorable honeymoon? Should it be pure relaxation (laying on the beach drinking yummy cocktails, spas) or adventure packed (hiking, helicoptor tours, kayaking)?

ANSWER: Focus on each other—that’s the best use of your time. I’ve heard the beaches in Hawaii are breathtaking so definitely splurge on your time there. A couples’ massage is fun. Also, take a day to sightsee and perhaps visit the natural waterfalls. Have a blast!

qgf said...
Our plan for the honeymoon is to go somewhere far enough away that it is a signficant trip but not somewhere we are dying to go (and therefore would want to spend the whole time sightseeing) So we are looking into destinations that will be memorable and yet relaxing enough to allow a lot of down time? Any recommendations? We are looking at Greece now. Thanks!
ANSWER: I would totally do Greece…that’s my number one pick…if not, how about Tuscany?

Chandra said...
I love this idea as a way to get honeymoon perks as well as carry a super cute bag! My question is, I hope to go to Italy for my honeymoon and travel all over. How could I best pack to take my bags with me (I'm not "backpacking it" for my honeymoon afterall!) without lugging around a huge bag all over the country? Thanks!
ANSWER: I think the Honeymoon Bag would be perfect for your toiletries and girly items. Next, pack your other essentials/clothes in a big, comfortable suitcase. Pack clothes that do double duty like sundresses, a sexy jean and capris—all of these can go from day to night easily. This packing style restricts you to two bags (you can take up to two bags on the plane—see how nicely this works out?).

Jennifer said...
We are going to both Costa Rica and to San Fran for our honeymoon…how do I pack efficiently but still be prepared for both places?!
ANSWER: Nice!! Layer it up…that’s the best route. Napa (in case you go there might be a little similar to Costa Rica= Warm), San Francisco= cool for the most part. Try jeans, leggings, dresses (with and without cardigan pull-overs), t-shirts that allow room for hoodies to shield you from the brisk air.

Miss Ready said...
The honeymoon tote is super cute! My fiance and I are trying to decide where to go for our honeymoon and are stuck. Would you suggest spending several days traveling to our honeymoon, because it's a once in a lifetime trip to go anywhere (Greece, Spain, France), or stay in a little closer and have lots more time to actually enjoy it (Carribean, Costa Rica)? Thanks!
ANSWER; My husband and I pondered this same question…so we ended up in Mexico—that’s always a nice option (tropical, yet close). Allow a day in between the wedding and the honeymoon and you can travel almost anywhere. You’ll have time to sleep on the plane.

Adam Smith and Meredith Kremer said...
My questions is, what's the best way to get honeymoon upgrades?
ANSWER: Using the Honeymoon Bag of course…you can’t blame me for saying that right? Using travel companies always help…like Moonrings!

magpies & magnolias said...
My question is: Is it worth it to splurge on the little "necessary luxuries" like first class airfare, honeymoon suites and expensive spa packages while on the honeymoon? All of those things sound so lovely but of course are pricey! Will the once-in-a-lifetime experience be worth the extra expense?My dream honeymoon would be a tour of the Italian coast with stays in villas with terraces overlooking the water and travel into the wine country. Sigh. Of course, any place I can travel with my man would be perfect.
ANSWER: Yes! Splurge on room upgrade for sure—first class travel— not so much unless you are traveling somewhere way far! Don’t get a spa package…get a spa treatment. Not worth being talked into a package—you want time to do other things.

Stephanie said...
Hooray! Cute cute cute!My question for our upcoming honeymoon cruise to the Caribbean is: Since this is my first cruise I am not sure the combination of clothes to pack! I don't want to overpack but I've heard there are sometimes fancier dinners, etc and I have no clue what to be prepared for! EEK :) What staples should I bring that will be great transition pieces?We want to travel everywhere but we especially can't wait to get to Oregon with the mountains on one side and the ocean on the other!

ANSWER: Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Pack a strapless sundress- this should take you far—it’s dressy, yet playful—great for your dinner date. Take dressy shorts to wear with wedges (great for day and night), sundresses are key, a jean for your flight and for night, and capris work magic for dressing up and dressing down outfits with heels and strappy sandals.