WELCOME TO THE TOTE-E BLOG!

Thanks for joining us on the TOTE-E BAG blog where you can see project updates, or register to purchase a bag. For any questions please feel free to email toteebags4all@gmail.com.

Tuesday, October 27, 2015




Yes People it is finally here! REGISTRATION FOR CARNIVAL 2K16 IS OPEN!
And it's easy, just click on top right hand side where "registration form here" is loacted. it's that easy

Registration ends in the second week of December 2015 so don't delay!

Friday, May 23, 2014

We're Blinging Barbados for Crop Over!!

To all our Bajan Friends!

We coming for CROP OVER!!!!

Have you registered for your kadooment costume yet? Complete the look of your costume and feel safe wukking up with all your essentials safely held in your customized TOTE-E bag.



We are doing things a little differently this year. We have 2 sizes of bags

  •  our typical 7"x 9" bag, (in wristlet or pocketbook style) for $50.00 barbadian dollars ($25.00US)
  • and a new size 6"x 5" inch bag for $35.00 barbadian dollars ($18.00US) 
Bags blinged to the max and guaranteed to complete your look!  
Register now via the link located to the top right hand corner of the blog that says

 "CLICK HERE TO OPEN REGISTRATION FORM".
 Registration closes in Mid July, so the earlier you register with us the better!! Keep on the look out for teasers and more details as the weeks go by!







Sunday, January 12, 2014

TOTE-E BAGS FAQ 2014 CARNIVAL

Welcome to the TOTE-E FAQ. We invite you to read all information carefully

What is a Tote-E
As the name says it’s a bag to tote everything essential. It’s the extra item that completes the look of your costume.
What is the size of the Tote-E and what can it hold?
The Tote-E is typically 7 inches wide by 9 inches long and is comparable to a medium sized clutch bag. It can hold everything from your cellphone, camera, shades, keys, money, make up compact and lipstick, tablets.
What are the Tote-e’s made of and are they durable?
All Tote-E’s are neatly sewn fully lined bags made with durable material, just right for it to take jamming on the road. Whether or not you have your tote-e on Carnival Monday and Tuesday, or just Tuesday, or even order 2 Tote-E’s – one for each day- you are guaranteed a beautiful bag to match your costume
 What is the cost of the Tote-E?
The Tote-E’s price depends on the type of design and decoration on the bag. We do not supply undecorated bags.
Unlike previous years we DO not have the Basic Decoration Option anymore. ALL BAGS ARE FULLY LOADED NO MATTER WHICH STYLE YOU CHOOSE!! YAYYYY!!! The 3 styles of bags are
·         Wristlets (with zip and loop to fit around the wrist)                           
·         Drawstring (short or long cord option)                                                                            
·         Zip and long strap ( like a pocket book)  
                              
The Price range of these bags depends on the style selected, and the level of decoration. Prices for the drawstring (short cord long cord options) bags start at 135.00. Prices for the Zip and long strap and wristlet options start at 155.00 

What about the TOTE-E Collaboration with Boots by AFRO CHIC?

As a result of our creative collaboration with Boots by Afro Chic, we have had to change up things a little. We now  have 3 package Options from which to choose

The Silver Tote-E, the Gold Tote-E and the Platinum Tote-E

  • The Silver Tote-E package includes a drawstring bag (long or short cord/no inner pocket), with the option of selecting boots to match your bag
  • The Gold Tote-E package includes a wristlet or pocket book styled bag ( optional inner pocket) with the option of selecting boots to match your bag
  • the Platinum Tote-E package includes a fully loaded wristlet or pocket book styled bag with an inner pocket with Matching Boots ( we highly recommend this package :D)
Are there additional options for the Tote-E?
Yes there are additional options for the Tote-E. Please note that these incur additional costs.
·         Custom shapes like knapsacks, or cylindrical bags . No we do not do Fanny Packs
·         Hand painted options
·         Special Decoration requests such as bras, corsets, cups, or any other carnival accessory you choose.

When registering please indicate in the 'details' box what other items you may wish to have customized in addition to the packages offered.

How do I register to get my Tote-E?
Registration forms can be accessed via the Tote-E FACEBOOK PAGE or the Tote-E BLOG (www.toteebags.blogspot.com). Click on the link on near the top right hand side of the blog "CLICK HERE TO OPEN REGISTRATION FORM " or on the facebook page, the link is located next to the photo tab "Tote-E Registration form"

What is the payment method for the Tote-E?
Payment is typically in 2 installments. The first installment is 50% of the TOTAL INVOICED PRICE. The second payment is payable upon collection of your bag. You have the option of payment in full at the time of ordering.
Payments can be made via PAY PAL. We will send you an email request for payment once you send in your registration form . Once you are invoiced and confirm receipt of invoice,  you are required to make payment within 5 DAYS. Please note that your order is not confirmed until your down payment or full payment is made. If payment is not made during stipulated time, your order will be cancelled.

When and where will my Tote-E be ready for me to collect?
Tote-E’s will be distributed usually on the week before carnival at designated times at a very convenient location. The details of collection and location will be communicated with you via email blast as the time draws nearer.
Do you offer a delivery service?
Sorry at the moment we do not.
For further information on your orders please email us at  toteebags4all@gmail.com, or check out our blog www.toteebags.blogspot.com where you can register directly.


THANKS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO READ AND WE LOOK FOWARD TO YOUR ORDER!!

Friday, December 27, 2013

65 Days to Carnival....Do you have your Tote-E BAG YET?

So folks,
Christmas and Boxing days are over, and even though Christmas officially ends on January 6th, lets face it....DE TING START!!!!

Switching into real high gear is one thing, but your overwhelming support has been fantastic! I've been trying very hard to attend to each and every one of you, so I am asking your indulgence to exercise patience at this time :)

NB: I am no longer accepting orders for boots as the deadline for receiving them has passed. 

However you can still order your TOTE EVERYTHING Bags, and now your customized Monday Year. Yes, I'll be doing a limited quantity of decorated bras, swimsuits and corsets. They'll be designed to complement your costume, unless of course a request is made for something completely different.

Thanks to your inquires already, and I'm looking forward to doing some of your requested Monday Wear creations.



So now that we've shifted gears a bit, Keep your eyes on the facebook page, the blog and the twitter account as we continue to update. Who knows? a few surprises might well be in store ;)

Friday, September 13, 2013

TOTE-E? A pictorial.

Well by now you've heard all about TOTE-E Bags and what we have to offer, but I'm sure you're wondering exactly what is a pocket book styled bag, or a cross body drawstring bag, or even what size is the TOTE-E BAG

Now let me tell you, the TOTE-E ONLY comes in ONE SIZE. Why? because it was specifically designed. These measurements aren't random, they're based on an ergonomic ratio. And they are designed to hold as much as you need to take with you on the road. Keys, cell phone, camera, survival kit items (safety pins, pain killers, plasters) Make up compact, small mirror...and while I won't say the list is infinite, you get the idea.

The bag was meant to TOTE EVERYTHING!!!

As an avid masquerader who likes to make sure she has everything she needs with her on the road including a hairbrush, trust me when I tell you, this bag can hold A LOT of stuff :)

So here is this simple pictorial to help you see what the bags are like.


Our New Packages!!



Hey everyone! here is the updated post on our new package offerings for Tote-E bags for Carnival 2k14  :)


We HAVE LAUNCHED!!!!!!!!

YES!! I am happy to say that TOTE-E bags has official launched its Carnival 2k14 Campaign! And what's even better is that we are happy to be collaborating creatively with Afro Chic of Boots by Afro Chic!

This is the second launch video that has been prepared by yours truly, and I have to say it really sets the tone for something that I think is exciting and fresh! which is what TOTE-E bags is all about.

Those clients with whom I have dealt with over the past 2 years know that I am a stickler for detail, perfection and that I treat each and every bag as if it were my own. That definitely won't change but will be expanded to include all the other items which WE (Afro chic and I) will be customizing. So, if you want the real complete look of Matching boots and bag, blinged out cup, a corset or bra for monday wear or whatever accessory look you may want, CHECK US OUT!  Look out for further details regarding registration, etc!

In the meantime, enjoy the VIDEO! WE READY FOR DE ROADD!!!

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

We are GEARING up for 2K14

Hello!

Yes I know it has been very very quiet on this blog, and allow me to apologize for that, but it has not been without good reason. Several simultaneous projects have kept me very very busy. Busy is good because it means that you, my beloved clients are keeping things hectic. I would also like to say a special thank you to all of you who have already expressed interest in ordering your bags for Trinidad Carnival next year. love you all <3

As plans are afoot for our new Trinidad Carnival 2k14 campaign, there will be a few changes implemented all in an effort to ensure an improved streamlined service. In addition there will be a  few special surprises this year, and I am looking forward to revealing it all when the time comes.

In the interim, I ask for your patience and understanding while things are being put into place. You can keep up to date on the Facebook page, and follow us on Twitter. See you soon!

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Gearing Up!

There's a saying that goes, "while many are sleeping, others are planning".

I think I fall into the latter category, because a lot of planning has been going on for the upcoming months, all in an effort to bring you improved service delivery and designs.  As a reminder of what to look forward to seeing more of, here is another banner of some of our clients who sent pictures as part of the "Show Me yuh TOTE-E" album :)


 


Speaking of which, our TOTE-E 365 collection is being finalized, and we anticipate it will be very different. Functional yet funky is the theme behind our designs, so we will be having a sale on our old collection before we launch the new one :).  In between of all this hard work of course, I need to take a little break now and then for vacation. This picture shows my  easter vacation planning with a swimsuit from our friends at Whole Peace, some handmade skincare products from Amara Organics and of course one of the beach totes from our 365 collection last year.








And last but not least, is an issue that has been occupying my mind for a while now, that I feel the need to air out. I know some may not agree with me, but I think I need to talk about this. When I started this business, I wanted it to be something light hearted and fun, even cheeky. In coming up with the name TOTE-E, I thought it encapsulated that energy I wanted to have in the business. A name that would capture the attention of many, while at the same time providing excellent quality, design and service. The point of naming the bag TOTE-E was that as a masquerader or user, the bag you have carries everything you need with you. Basically you TOTE EVERYTHING. That's the name of the bag. All that was done was the shortening of the word to E.

What i have discovered since starting this business is captured in this picture below

 


Women for the most part (the target market) seem to love the name, find it amusing, and are blown away by the final product. Men however seem have HUGE objections to the name, something that is very puzzling to me, since it was meant to be a fun cheeky name.  I get messages, asking me to change the name of the bag, that it is offensive to them, that I cannot be serious about what I am doing.

What I will say is being in a male dominated profession for the past decade, I am used to being told that I can't or having my abilities questioned by men.  I find pleasure in debunking such theories about my abilities and earning respect for what I do and what I have accomplished.  And that my friends is the same energy that I have taken to growing this business to where I envisage it to be.  So to answer the many questions out there,  YES I am serious about what am doing and NO I  don't anticipate changing the name of my business very soon. So for those of you who have Tote-Ephobia, I assure you there is no need to. I'm creating a brand around a typically functional activity for many while at the same time creating a fun vibe with it. That's all. No need for all the artillery... :)
















Tuesday, March 5, 2013

TOTE-E Trinidad Carnival Review

Hey Guys!

Gosh, it has been such a long time since I last posted. As you would imagine the past few weeks were very hectic for TOTE-E. Sorting fabrics, stones, trimmings, spray paint, glue, sewing sketching and designing, all in an effort to create the perfect carnival accessory for my clients. What more can you ask for than a bag that completes your carnival look while at the same time being able to hold everything you need on the road that you could tote with you while on the go?

I just want to thank everybody for their overwhelming support this year. I wanted my clients to trust my design judgement (since this is what I do at my day job anyway) and allow me to create something that they all loved. And did they love their bags! the oohs, aahs, gasps, hugs, and smiles were enough satisfaction for me.

So here are a few pics of the official catalogue, as well as the "show me yuh tote-e" album, in which my clients willingly sent pictures of themselves posing happily with their bags. :)




Thanks so much ladies! you wore your respective costumes and your Tote-E bags well! For those of you who want to see the full "Show me yuh Tote-E" album for Trinidad Carnival, have a look at the link here

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.450088421731660.102074.244247568982414&type=3&l=93edf47ab4

I am really looking forward to Trinidad Carnival 2k14, and I am already making plans for it. Here is a teaser of things to come. I'll just titillate you with one ;)

In the meantime Tote-E bags is by no means dormant in the interim. The new TOTE-E 365 collection is being finalized and we are spreading our carnival reach. Stay tuned for all the exciting news!

Monday, January 14, 2013

Launch of our spa packs to go with your TOTE-E BAGS!!

I have been asked my many clients if anything is offered with a tote-e bag. Well for this carnival, that question has been answered.

last year my clients got samples from TOTE-E Bags sister company Amara Organics. Amara Organics specializes in the formulation and making of all natural bath and body products ranging from soaps, creams, bath salts, body scrubs and now we have added lip balms to the list!

Ever missed tasting sweet Mango on your lips? well that's what we're trying to recreate here at Amara Organics, the sweet taste of mango lip butter!!! ;)

So as part of the launch and just in time for the Carnival season, Amara Organics, has decided to launch a Carnival Spa Pack which can go along with your tote-e bag! You can use it during the 2 days of fun! or after when you wish to relax after the Carnival Heat!

We have a competition on too!! So you can check out www.facebook.com/amara.organics to  see the details...in the meantime have a look at the poster here!! If your'e interested in placing an order just email us! details will be issued later in the week. Looking foward to hearing from all of you!!


Thursday, January 3, 2013

Closure of Registration and Other Announcements

THANKS FOLKS BUT REGISTRATION FOR 2013 CARNIVAL IS NOW OFFICIALLY CLOSED!!!

I'm looking foward to creating and desiging all the bags ...every last one of them and I can tell you whether basic or fully loaded they are all going to be BEAUTIFUL!!!

Please keep updated with us as we may have a few surprise competitions and promotions soon. AND also look out next week for the launch of the Carnival spa packs that you can purchase to go with your Tote-E. These spa packs are handmade with the best skin care ingredients from our sister company Amara Organics. check them out on facebook www.facebook.com/amara.organics

After all that jumping on the road you would want to take care of your feet, hands and body right?

thanks guys and looking foward to a bumper year for TOTE-E BAGS!!!!!

Thursday, November 15, 2012

TOTE-E BAGS 365 COLLECTION

Yes, it has been forever since I made the last blog post, but I have been unbelievably busy! working on orders, working on getting other projects in place, but it's all fun. Thing is I forgot to put pics of my first ever craft market Bits and Pieces held at the Movietowne Banquet Center on November 3rd.


I was hoping people would take advantage of coming to register for their Carnival Tote-E's, and a few did! So I want to thank them for coming and I look foward to designing their bags. BTW, I've added  a few pics, of the bags from our TOTE-E 365 Collection. You can get these for christmas, Colourful upbeat and fun these bags are PERFECT for a handmade Christmas Present.



You can see the entire collection on the facebook page. Just look for the album TOTE-E 365 ALBUM.

Our NEXT event where you can register in person before the DECEMBER 28TH DEADLINE, will be at Jambo Bisa at the W studio (next to Island People building) on tragarete road in Port of Spain. We'll be there on Sunday November 25th from 9am to 3pm. you can come on down and purchase the available bags for christmas gifts, or anything else you see there for that matter. The event will be filled with lots of artisans selling their lovely craft items.

Monday, October 1, 2012

First Tote-E update

So here it is people! we have officially launched, and you are now free to register. looking foward to it :)

TOTE-E BAGS LAUNCH! WE READY!!!!

The CAMPAIGN OFFICIAL STARTS TODAY!!!!!! Register for your TOTE-E BAG via the form on the blog page :)

Friday, September 14, 2012

TOTE-E BAGS FAQ (updated)

Welcome to the TOTE-E FAQ. We invite you to read all information carefully

What is a Tote-E
As the name says it’s a bag to tote everything essential. It’s the extra item that completes the look of your costume.
What is the size of the Tote-E and what can it hold?
The Tote-E is typically 7 inches wide by 9 inches long and is comparable to a medium sized clutch bag. It can hold everything from your cellphone, camera, shades, keys, money, make up compact and lipstick, tablets.
What are the Tote-e’s made of and are they durable?
All Tote-E’s are neatly sewn fully lined bags made with durable material, just right for it to take jamming on the road. Whether or not you have your tote-e on Carnival Monday and Tuesday, or just Tuesday, or even order 2 Tote-E’s – one for each day- you are guaranteed a beautiful bag to match your costume
 What is the cost of the Tote-E?
The Tote-E’s price depends on the type of design and decoration on the bag. We do not supply undecorated bags.
Unlike previous years we DO not have the Basic Decoration Option anymore. ALL BAGS ARE FULLY LOADED NO MATTER WHICH STYLE YOU CHOOSE!! YAYYYY!!! The 3 styles of bags are
·         Wristlets (with zip and loop to fit around the wrist)                           
·         Drawstring (short or long cord option)                                                                            
·         Zip and long strap ( like a pocket book)  
                              
The Price range of these bags depends on the style selected, and the level of decoration. Prices for the drawstring (short cord long cord options) bags start at 135.00. Prices for the Zip and long strap and wristlet options start at 155.00 

What about the TOTE-E Collaboration with Boots by AFRO CHIC?

As a result of our creative collaboration with Boots by Afro Chic, we have had to change up things a little. We now  have 3 package Options from which to choose

The Silver Tote-E, the Gold Tote-E and the Platinum Tote-E


  • The Silver Tote-E package includes a drawstring bag (long or short cord/no inner pocket), with the option of selecting boots to match your bag
  • The Gold Tote-E package includes a wristlet or pocket book styled bag ( optional inner pocket) with the option of selecting boots to match your bag
  • the Platinum Tote-E package includes a fully loaded wristlet or pocket book styled bag with an inner pocket with Matching Boots ( we highly recommend this package :D)
Are there additional options for the Tote-E?
Yes there are additional options for the Tote-E. Please note that these incur additional costs.
·         Custom shapes like knapsacks, or cylindrical bags . No we do not do Fanny Packs
·         Hand painted options
·         Special Decoration requests such as bras, corsets, cups, or any other carnival accessory you choose.

When registering please indicate in the 'details' box what other items you may wish to have customized in addition to the packages offered.

How do I register to get my Tote-E?
Registration forms can be accessed via the Tote-E FACEBOOK PAGE or the Tote-E BLOG (www.toteebags.blogspot.com). Click on the link on near the top right hand side of the blog "CLICK HERE TO OPEN REGISTRATION FORM " or on the facebook page, the link is located next to the photo tab "Tote-E Registration form"

What is the payment method for the Tote-E?
Payment is typically in 2 installments. The first installment is 50% of the TOTAL INVOICED PRICE. The second payment is payable upon collection of your bag. You have the option of payment in full at the time of ordering.
Payments can be made via PAY PAL. We will send you an email request for payment once you send in your registration form . Once you are invoiced and confirm receipt of invoice,  you are required to make payment within 5 DAYS. Please note that your order is not confirmed until your down payment or full payment is made. If payment is not made during stipulated time, your order will be cancelled.

When and where will my Tote-E be ready for me to collect?
Tote-E’s will be distributed usually on the week before carnival at designated times at a very convenient location. The details of collection and location will be communicated with you via email blast as the time draws nearer.
Do you offer a delivery service?
Sorry at the moment we do not.
For further information on your orders please email us at  toteebags4all@gmail.com, or check out our blog www.toteebags.blogspot.com where you can register directly.
THANKS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO READ AND WE LOOK FOWARD TO YOUR ORDER!!

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

just setting things up..

Yes i am a little late but i'm just setting things up before the big launch in the next few days. Please bear with me for a little while longer :(