Handbags

SO girlie....

2010-10-05T23:39:00.000-07:00

www.carlashes.com
Brilliant if you share your car with a big burly man....
XX Jo.

Christmas is coming. No, really, the shops are full of it already....

2010-09-16T11:50:00.000-07:00

So, are we all ready (already) for the sparkly season to arrive?
I say this through gritted teeth as the thought of all that organising, stress and cost does not exactly fill me with glee, but apparently there are only 100 shopping days left to go until the big day!
Of course, there are rather more online shopping days, no doubt, but I do think we ought to get started.
So I am just about to launch this year's Christmas Gift Certificate Offer, I think we'll call it our "Christmas Hurrah!" Keep an eye on the website for full details, they should pop up shortly, and I'll pop a link on here too, of course.
So, get your lists of F&F done pronto and see how many would like the chance to gush over Gucci, pore over Prada or even moon over our Mollybag....
XX J.

****Here you go! http://www.handbaghirehq.co.uk/gift-certificates.asp ****

3....2....1.....

2010-09-08T12:15:00.000-07:00

......We are about to draw the winners of the Take A Break Summer Special Giveaway!
Good luck to all those who entered - keep an eye on your postbox to see if you are a winner.
XX Jo and Kerry XX

It's the ELEVENTH!! Let's celebrate.......

2010-08-11T11:48:00.000-07:00

OK, so it being the ELEVENTH of the month might not be really THAT exciting. I mean, it's a long way till pay day and a boring old Wednesday night. Even Corrie isn't on because of flaming football.
So, what can we do to cheer everyone up? BY GEORGE, I'VE GOT IT! As an extra special gift for our lovely blog readers, please treat yourselves to an 11% discount on us. Go on, let's celebrate the elevenliness of August the 11th. Why not?

To take advantage of your 11% hire discount, simply pop the code BLOG11 into the Discount Box as you go through the checkout procedure when you hire one of our lovely bags. Easy peasy.

Enjoy - and don't forget - Happy Elevenses!!

Jo. P.S. This code will work every day until the end of August 2010. XX.

ANNOUNCING!! Our Inclusive Annual Memebership Packages!

2010-07-16T10:02:00.000-07:00

Hello World,

There's been a huge, sparkly buzz going around the HHHQ office - we are delighted to announce the arrival of our DIAMOND and PLATINUM memberships! Now, for the very first time at http://www.handbaghirehq.co.uk/ , we are offering not one but two annual membership options.

Our DIAMOND MEMBERSHIP includes membership and hire of any of our bags at any time throughout the year, which means you could have a different bag every week, fortnight or month – it’s up to you. You can only have one bag at a time and you do still pay £9.95 for postage each time you hire. With a one-off payment of just £500, this incredible package could save you a total of £1320 in bag hires alone!

If the prospect of paying for postage each time does not appeal, we are also offering our PLATINUM MEMBERSHIP. For £750, Platinum Membership allows all the benefits of Diamond, but with outward and return postage included for each hire. If you were a Platinum Member and hired one of our most exclusive bags every week for a year, this would save a further £267.40. Add that to the £1320 and the £90 membership and it suddenly becomes a saving of £1677.40!

There is no obligation to extend either package beyond a year. All new members and existing members who have not hired within the last three months are required to complete our security procedures. The minimum bag hire period is one week; hires can be extended upon request, subject to our Waiting List commitments.
To join Handbag Hire HQ as a Diamond or Platinum Member, please contact Jo at jo@handbaghirehq.co.uk or telephone us on 07771 741576 / 01522 869444. If you would like to purchase one of our annual membership packages as a Gift Certificate, we will tailor-make your gift for an extra £10 to include a gift box and your own personal message.

HOW EXCITING! Now we've just got to design some suitably gorgeous Diamond and Platinum membership cards! How much bling can we possibly get onto one little plastic card?

Bye for now and happy browsing,

Lots of love,

Jo and Kerry XX.

2010-06-17T00:52:00.000-07:00

So I have been terrible not updating the blog… but have been so busy …. Please catch us on twitter @kerrysambridge I have some great offers posted now and then on twitter and its good fun to have a gossip.. – Today the sun has finally come out and it’s been glorious have got the bikini out and tried to get a little bit of colour…….. Hmm well tried so have faked it a little bit!! Nobody will know!

The latest trend which is really awful is men in plimsolls oh dear it is just so wrong …. Please guys it looks terrible!!!!!!! Do not wear them!! :)

Jo came round to mine and I ended up pretending to be a beauty therapist and waxing ……….. Jo has said that giving birth to twins was less painful. My career as a waxier is over ha ha well I tried!!!

So on to handbags >>. I have seen the Gucci Hysteria being used by Rhianna and Alex Curan aka wag of the moment!! It’s so roomy and is so in for summer. Alex Curan has the black clutch which has a small strap and a larger one if you want to use it as a bag rather than a clutch, there is loads of room inside great for all the junk and makeup us girls take on a night out!!!! . http://www.handbaghirehq.co.uk/eMerchantPro/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=4&idproduct=3

Another one of my favourites for this week is the Balenciaga handbags
This brand is probably one of the most often worn by celebrities, http://www.handbaghirehq.co.uk/eMerchantPro/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=6

Nicole Richie is more often that not photographed with one of her balenciaga handbags on her arm, and even more so since she had her daughter. Her black Balenciaga handbag goes everywhere with her, most likely due to its versatility and space to hold baby accessories while still being stylish my favourite is the Balenciaga Giant Stud handbag

http://www.handbaghirehq.co.uk/eMerchantPro/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=6&idproduct=71

The Balenciaga Giant Stud handbag, fresh from the Spanish fashion house. Soft leather meets the gold-tone diamond-etched studs. Inside this big bag is the Balenciaga tasselled mirror/cardholder, black lining and a zipped pocket. A large, statement piece.
Dimensions:

Width18 / 46cm
Depth4 / 10cm
Height14 / 36cm

hope you have enjoyed readiung this catch me on twitter or leave your comments

bye for now

kerry xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Its Kerry here hello all !!!!!!!

2010-05-17T12:02:00.000-07:00

Hello all I would like to introduce my self. I will be updating the blog on handbags for hire hq for Jo, I am a self confessed fashion addict age 31 and simply adore handbags and shoes ….. I am obsessed with all the latest trends and will certainly keep you updated with all the latest gossip and celebrity who’s wearing who and how to where it !!!! I will also add you into my little world and my daily life and my friends …. Hope this will the exciting start of something good … welcome to my blog !

This weeks top look is ZEBRA !!! I am going to be using the Ri2K Dulcie

http://www.handbaghirehq.co.uk/eMerchantPro/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=71&idproduct=53

A very stylish day bag in exciting limited wild zebra print with black leather trim. This stunning day bag will definitely make an impact. It has a detachable shoulder strap as well as the top handles. Inside is gorgeous red lining with a zip pocket and a mobile phone slip pocket. This bag screams quality. Usually costing around £200 pounds this bag is on hire for a mere £15 a week

When it comes to their handbags, these celebs like to take a walk on the wild side...the last few seasons, animal print bags, shoes and accessories have been super hot. The "it" bag of the moment has to be zebra print handbags.

As Halle and Heidi show us, you don't have to wear boring tops with your zebra print handbag, as long as your colour palette is neutral. Shiny tops, greys, black and white are perfect when paired with zebra, but you should avoid bright colours unless you are going for an early 90's look

feel free to post your comments and reviews of any handbags you would like to hear about ..... love to hear from you all xx

kerry xx

Hot off the Press!

2010-05-05T04:54:00.001-07:00

Exciting times at HHHQ - first of all we will be introducing our new blog lady, Kerry. Kerry is going to sample each of our bags and give us her opinion. Watch this space as it promises to be honest, amusing and no doubt very interesting as our Girl About Town tries out our gorgeous arm candy.

Secondly, two of our members have just today decided they can't bear to send back the bags they have hired and so have asked me for a purchase price. They are now proud owners of their favourites and I hope they'll be very happy. It's a lovely part of my job, uniting people with their heart's desire.

So, we'll need to shop soon to get more bags on the site for you to hire. As usual, I'm open to suggestions, so please let me know your perfect bags at jo@handbaghirehq.co.uk and we'll crack open that piggy bank....

Bye for now, glamourpusses,
Jo. XX.

M Andonia Daisy Kiss

2010-04-03T11:57:00.000-07:00

One of our lovely members has just returned the M Andonia Daisy Kiss and it prompted me to give it a trial. So how did it go?
Well, as soon as Twin 1 saw it, she gushed, "Oh Mom, that's my favourite bag ever...." and Twin 1 prides herself on being a tomboy and not girlie at all, but I think it really brought out her inner laydee. Anyway, the only problem our esteemed member encountered with the Daisy Kiss was that it was too small for all her everyday stuff. I have been using it for about ten hours now and I have to admit I agree.
I took it shopping today, with the children, and I have to say, once Twin 2 got fed up with her DS and dumped it on me (occupational hazard), it joined my purse, phone and car keys and then the MADK was about as full as it could be and still be able to be clipped up. I really do love the look of it, though.
I think perhaps it's for someone far more ladylike than me. Like Lily Allen when she's in one of her Audrey Hepburn moments. Or Audrey herself. Anyway, someone who can cope with form more than function.
Today I'm enjoying playing lady of the manor. But I fear tomorrow I'll be going back to being practical. Though the Fendi B Mix is calling, so I won't sink into the pits of depression just yet....
Bye for now and happy browsing,
Jo.
XX.

Doncha wish.....

2010-03-29T03:51:00.000-07:00

A snippet from Amanda Plattell's page in the Daily Mail at the weekend:

"Lewis Hamilton has managed to woo his pop star girlfriend Nicole Sherzinger back after they briefly split up last year. Ever generous, this multi-millionaire tax exile is already moaning about his little songbird's taste in expensive designer handbags. 'The best thing to do,' he says, 'is when you go to China pick up a whole lot of stuff - they'll never know the difference.' Silly Lewis. If you're a sportsman, you can cheat on your girlfriend with another woman, but never with a fake Louis Vuitton."

Ab-so-lutely.
XX.

It's all happening here.....and Burberry Verdict!

2010-03-17T12:56:00.000-07:00

Yes, we're having busy old time here in Handbag Hire HQ World. Well, I suppose I should say Handbag Hire HQ HQ, but that sounds a bit odd....

Anyway, not only have I been trying out our lovely Burberry Hobo (more on that later), but I have gone even more girly than I was already by becoming a Vie at home consultant. Why would someone devoted to the sharing of handbag-love be diversifying in such a way? Well, lots of reasons really, for a start I love the stuff so it's a good way to get my mitts on it (tsk), but also as a mum of 3 with an internet-based job, I have to say sometimes I feel the need to have actual real-life-in-the-flesh conversations with grown ups who I'm neither married to nor accepting post from. Not saying that I have no friends or social life of course, but let me refer you back to the 3 small children bit....

So, I promise with hand on heart I won't be carrying Vie at home samples around in our gorgeous HHHQ bags, so don't worry about spillages, but there's a very good chance I could be showing the bag I'm currently trialling to the guests at the parties, so that I can write a more balanced review, because, lets face it, I'm a leeetle bit handbag-obsessed so I might be prone to adoring everything! (Though I do try to be open-minded.) Anyway, at the first Team Meeting I had to introduce myself and it did feel a bit "My name's Jo and I'm a Bagaholic." But I'm settling in and if you would like to have a look at my online shop, it's available at www.my.vieathome.com/jotrafford

Onto further news - for all those who remember my "performance" on the Weakest Link last year and who fancied having a go themselves, I had a phonecall from one of their researchers today and they would like to have more 30-something females on the show. So if you would like to find out more please email me at jo@handbaghirehq.co.uk and I can put you in touch with her. I had a brilliant time doing the show so come on ladies, don't hide your light under a bushel....

At last, I come onto my review of the Burberry Hobo. It is one of those bags that people notice, but it's not over the top. I was a bit daunted by the Burberry Check - was it a look I could pull-off, especially this time of the year when I seem to be all in black or dark plum, but the contrast worked really well and I have enjoyed using it. Of course it's not exactly massive and downsizing is ALWAYS a challenge for me, as my regular readers will know, but the open-top design, whilst not exactly suitable if mixing in light-fingered company, does mean you can slot plenty in. It also makes FINDING things easy, which is a bonus.

The magnetic fastening is really strong, which means you only need to throw the strap over and it latches on very easily. I loved the length of the shoulder strap - it sat neatly under my arm. I also loved the pale brown lining - its simplicity compared to the outside check was greatly satisfying. My final plus - like the Louis Vuitton canvas, the Hobo is made from a strong, hardwaring and waterproof material, so I didn't feel scared to plop it down on a table, etc. So, although it is a light colour, it is supremely practical.

To sum up, I thoroughly enjoyed sporting the Burberry Hobo, though long-term it would probably be too small for a clutternut like me. I had lots of favourable comments from friends and strangers alike and no negative ones.

Now, that's my lot for today. Remember to let me know what bags you'd like to see on our site, and also if we can pop you on our Waiting List for any of them.

Bye for now,

Jo. XX.

Checking. Me. Out.

2010-03-10T14:55:00.000-08:00

New trial: Burberry Hobo. Watch this space....
XX.

Me and My Bag We Got Issues....

2010-02-15T12:46:00.000-08:00

....I just can't find me my tissues.

Well, I've been using and a-testing the LV Neverfull and it really is a whopping great bucket of a bag. Now, it's lovely and a truely recognisable piece of arm candy. A very stylish business associate of mine cast a loving eye over it and I felt a pang of pure love for it right there and then, but the problem is that it's such a spacious thing that I can't help just chucking stuff in there. I'll give you an example, at the till at the supermarket, the very helpful check-out lady asks if I would like a bag, my response: "No thanks, I can just pop it all in here." Easy as. The thing is, I just don't know when to stop.
I've ended up with countless DS's and DS chips from the children, enough make up to buff up all the actors on a mini-series, a money box in the shape of a pink stilletto boot (this belongs rather worryingly to my son and is full of coppers and silvers!) and at least one diary. Amongst all my other stuff, please check previous blogs for full list. There's no kitchen sink as yet but just watch this space.

My Virgo instincts tell me to go for a mini bag and live life in the ultra 0rganised lane, but it is just SO easy to keep plopping stuff in the Neverfull. It just carries on looking so lovely and really doesn't give away the total chaos going on inside.

Ah. So I continue to fool the outside world that I'm stylish and orderly. And inside I'm a mish-mash. C'est la vie.

XX Jo.

Introducing Quute Illumina and Sade

2010-02-09T12:39:00.000-08:00

Here at HHHQ we have had a very exciting delivery - two exquisite Quute Illumina clutch bags. Designed exclusively by the lovely Sade, these beauties have a very, um.... illuminating.... innovation - open them up and a delicate (yet surprisingly powerful) row of lights switch on automatically, so you can check your make-up, find your keys, pick out a pen to write down that all important phone number....
Sade has been nominated for the coveted British Female Inventor and Innovator Awards. See her website at http://www.quuteillumina.co.uk/ for her full story.
We are delighted to introduce two of these unique bags to our site. We have the red and the black. No prizes for guessing which is my favourite*. I'm sure all our members will love them. Both clutches are 13.5" wide - a similar size to the lovely Gucci Hysteria Clutch, so you can pop plenty in there on a night out, without resorting to a day bag.
With Valentines Day coming up, which one of our faithful members will be trying them out first?
Bye for now and happy browsing,
Jo. XX.

*The black, with the red, oooooh.....

Peace Reigns Supreme

2010-02-06T11:50:00.000-08:00

The Guess Peace, that is.
I have been using this purple beauty since my last-but-one blog and had lots of lovely comments. The general gist seems to be that it's a lovely colour to brighten up this time of year, and I'm inclined to agree.
Also, it's a really good combination of medium-to-large capacity without being heavy enough to give you an RSI. Guess bags traditionally have a lot of inside pockets, but to be honest I didn't really bother with them. I did, however, use the shoulder strap when my hands were full, though it definitely looks better held in the hand.
It's not as "blingy" as Guess bags can sometimes be, which suits my rather straightforward wardrobe.
I'm not sure where I'm going to go after this one, the Speedy is home and it's calling my name, but I feel a bit adventurous and now I've flirted with colour I think I like it.....

Til next time,
Jo. XX.
P.S. I just took delivery of hundreds of sweet little chocolate hearts, so next time you hire enjoy a nibble on us!

Only 2 more days to go!

2010-01-29T04:32:00.000-08:00

Lookout! There are only two more days of our "BOGOF" offer on our Gift Certificates. Until midnight on Sunday, if you buy one of our exquisite Gift Certificates we will double the membership length free of charge. Have a look..... XX.

I'm back, oh yes, I'm back.

2010-01-28T11:10:00.000-08:00

Hello! Now, regular readers may have noticed a distinct lack of blogging of late. Apologies dear readers, been a busy lady, but now I'm back and fully on the case after having my head lost in the clouds....

OK so I stuck with my old friend Prada, coupled with a Bagatidy for good orderly measure. I've been methodically collecting bits as I've gone along and now Prada is so heavy I can barely lift it. Actually, I had a swine flu jab today and Nice Nurse said my arm would be a bit stiff the next few days and, while she did ask me which hand I write with, she didn't think to ask which hand I carry my bag with (which in my view is a far more pertinent question....) so my bag-carrier-side will be suffering a bit by the sound of it. So, I'm going to downsize and go light-weight for a while. I'm considering the Guess Peace for a couple of reasons, though the Gucci Hysteria is in the running. Both are roomy yet light-weight. I think maybe the Peace at the moment because life in Jan/Feb can be a bit gloomy and a slice of jolly purpleness might help me so much more than a SAD lightbox ever could. Time for a bit of frivol.

Now, beyond my own bag musings, we have some very exciting plans for HHHQ in 2010. We are starting with something of a lightshow. Where is Jean Michel Jarre when you need him?

Keep checking our website http://www.handbaghirehq.co.uk/ for details, and always always keep an eye on here, dear reader, so I can keep you up to date, though I'm not saying any more just yet! XX.

Admission!

2009-12-26T11:29:00.000-08:00

OK, I've gone back to Prada.
XX.

DCS: Tried and Tested

2009-11-25T08:47:00.000-08:00

Following my flirtation with the idea of hiring the dinky Dior Cannage Small, I decided I couldn't bear to put it straight back on the shelf, so, all in the name of customer satisfaction, I've been using it and enjoying in all its shiny glory. And yes, I have LOVED it. Which surprised me as it is, after all, the Dior Cannage SMALL and the world and his wife knows I carry an awful lot of stuff about with me.....

....So, I was able to fit in all the usual chaotic items (listed many times here!) and a wodge of paperwork I'm ploughing through. Plus a telescopic umbrella. And a can of fizz. Now, I'm not saying I could close it up beautifully like it's so cleverly designed to do, but that's the beauty of a drawstring and frankly I was so happy swishing it about with that lovely dangly D, I couldn't have cared less.

All in all, I think it's a bit of a tardis, or T.A.R.D.I.S. as Dr Who fans will no doubt correct me, thanks Samantha, and a stunning one at that. I loved having a long shoulder strap for a change, so many bags are designed to sit snugly under the arm, aren't they?

Ah well, enjoy.... And do you realise it's a month until Christmas? Gulp, so much to do....!

BTW, if you buy a 6 month Handbag Hire HQ Gift Certificate and (inline with our current Special Christmas Offer) we double it up to a 12 month one - drop me a line at jo@handbaghirehq.co.uk quoting BLOG and I'll add on Christmas 2010 to the membership too, so it'll be for a whopping 13 months membership!

I'm off to browse for baubles.....

Love,

Jo. XX.

Neat little Gucci

2009-11-18T13:46:00.000-08:00

I've done another trial. It's a tough job, but someone's got to do it.....

The Stripe Shoulder bag by Gucci has never really jumped out at me. I always thought it was too small for me - regular readers will know I'm a Big Bag Fan, as in I go for whoppers that can carry all the minutae of my insane life, not just that I'm "stocky". Not going to admit either way on that one, anyway. Ah, Sturdy Girl.

So, the neat little Stripe Shoulder. I used it to go to a 10th Wedding Anniversary/38th Birthday Party on Saturday night and it ticked all the boxes. First of all, I was the designated driver that night and I wanted something that could languish discreetly in the footwell, despite a huge pair of husband-feet vying for space - tick, not a problem. Next, I was in moody/chic black with over-the-knees, so I needed a bag that showed up but wasn't cutesy - tick, just the job. Third, I wasn't sure who would be there and who wouldn't, so I was after something designer but not OTT - again, tickety tick. But Then the Big Test, what could I get in such a little bag? Well, I was surprised. A bit like the LV Papillon and the Gucci Joy Boston, the structured shape of this bag allowed for extra space, so I was able to squeeze in the following (note: no kitchen sink. Now, that would be silly....): eyeliner (to compliment black attire of course), lipstick, car keys, my phone, his phone, my OTHER phone (long story), his wallet, my card, my cash, a brush. And a pen. Always have a pen. So rather a lot actually.

As the night descended into drinking games (with me as referee as I was DD, as above!) I was happy to have the Stripe Shoulder languishing on my chairback. It's pretty hardwaring and doesn't feel vulnerable to spillages at all.

So, I am won over. I used it as a day bag for the next couple of days; I even took it to my little boy's rugby training and it served me well. I'm back on a capacious Prada now, OK, I admit it, but if I was a more ordered person this would really suit me.

Actually, the Dior Cannage Small came home today, I might be transferring all my goodies over straight after this.....

Will let you know my thoughts,

Jo. XX.

THIS YEAR'S GIFT VOUCHER SPECIAL OFFER, I'M SOOOO EXCITED!!

2009-10-26T11:24:00.000-07:00

Here is your official notification.... we are about to launch our Christmas Gift Voucher Promotion.

I am jubilant. The plan this year is to double the membership length, SO if you buy your nearest-and-dearest a six-month membership they will receive a fabulous twelve months instead!

The Gift Voucher will be sent in our exquisite packaging, all boxed up and ready to go. We can send it direct to the recipient or to you for your approval before handing it over. We will add your special message, so mull over 25 - 30 words that will bring a Christmas smile and just let us know at jo@handbaghirehq.co.uk

Remember, we can create a bespoke Gift Certificate for you - contact me directly at the above email address and I will sort it out. Easy as.

XX.

Balenciaga Giant Besace

2009-10-26T07:20:00.000-07:00

Now, apart from the fact I have trouble pronouncing the name of this bag, it has been my weapon of choice for the last two weeks. I have been trying it out, all in the name of HHHQ of course, and I have to admit it is already way up there as one of my favourite day bags.

I adore the colour - it feels really grown up and much more chic than the shiny black patents I've been using lately. When we first got this bag, the leather was lovely, but not as kissably soft as other Balenciagas, maybe that should read "strokably.....". Anyway, the Besace's leather has now softened and aged and it feels just gorgeous.

The shoulder strap can be lengthened using the big gold buckle to make it fit across-the-body, though I tended to use it as a traditional shoulder bag. I could get loads in there and the bag itself is so light that I didn't suffer my usual ache-on-my-lhs from carting so much stuff about.

Overall, this was one of my best trials and I would wholeheartedly recommend the Balenciaga Giant Besace. A headturner, and a practical one at that!

Until next time,
Jo. XX.

Louis Vuitton Speedy 25

2009-10-08T12:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, we have a new baby! A new Louis Vuitton Speedy 25 to add to the family. Our first one is out on loooong term hire and so we thought we'd get another in for more frequent ins and outs. It's booked on our Waiting List already, so if you want to join the most classic queue this side of Paris, email me at jo@handbaghirehq.co.uk

XX Jo.

Mulberry Cher

2009-09-14T23:51:00.000-07:00

Now, I've been using the delightfully capacious Louis Vuitton Neverfull and I started off with just a few essentials in the bottom, revelling in the glory of such a light bag and oodles of spare space. Then life got in the way and all sorts of things ended up getting stuffed in there. Well, no more. That's it. I'm going Cold Turkey. The Neverfull is on her merry way to one of our members now, so I have to select a new one anyway - and I have decided on the Mulberry Cher.

The Cher is not a large bag by any means, small to medium in fact, so it really is time to get myself and my handbag innards sorted out. I'll be back to let you know how it went next time,
Until then,

XX Jo.

In Need of Inspiration....

2009-09-08T12:25:00.000-07:00

Hello World,

We are looking to buy a new Louis for the site, any preferences? Please let me know which ones you would like to see on the site, either here or via jo@handbaghirehq.co.uk

Speedy? Or Galliera?
Monogram? Epi? Or Damier?
Or...?
You decide.
Thank you kindly! XX Jo.

At last I'm getting back to you.....

2009-08-20T11:10:00.000-07:00

So. The Green Prada Messenger won. Which was perfect, except it was too windy and so no hot air balloons actually got off the ground. There was, however, a fair there and the Prada was perfect for strapping across myself for all the rides. And no, I didn't hold on. And yes, I did scream "if you wanna go faster"!

HEYELP!!

2009-07-17T11:19:00.000-07:00

So, it's the weekend. And Mr HHHQ has gone away on a lads' weekend, so here I am in my usual Friday-evening haze of which bag to test-drive for the next two days. Hot air ballooning tomorrow, so which one of our delights would suit? I think it's between our newest Balenciaga, the City, or the roomy and butter-soft Cush, or do I go for gold and go for Gucci? But then I can't help wondering about going "hands free" and going for a Messenger. I'll let you know Sunday - and I'll let you know how we got on....

Read All About It!

2009-07-07T12:01:00.001-07:00

I was just reading through our Testimonials, as one of our lovely members had kindly commented on our service following her hire. Thank you to all of you who take the time to tell us your thoughts - it really helps us and encourages us.
Enjoy reading our members' comments everyone!
XX Jo.

Two years old!

2009-07-05T09:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to us, Happy Birthday to us, Happy Birthday dear HHHQ, Happy Birthday to us!!

Yes, we are now two years old. A huge thanks to all our lovely members. We hope you are loving our Collection and look forward to bringing you many more beautiful bags over the coming years.

Please raise a glass to Handbag Hire HQ and help us celebrate!

Love to all our members,
Jo and Handbag Hire HQ. XX.
www.handbaghirehq.co.uk
jo@handbaghirehq.co.uk

The Fabulous Five

2009-06-21T13:57:00.000-07:00

Yes, featuring now.... our five new acquisitions are online and ready to hire. Check them out at New Arrivals!

Here's a quick once-over for each bag, but anything you'd like to know about them please check out their web pages on the site at http://www.handbaghirehq.co.uk/ or email me at jo@handbaghirehq.co.uk

Chloe Paddington Metallic
A lovely bronze beauty. I keep thinking I'm way over the whole Chloe Paddington thing, but then I see one in a new colour and there I go again. It's the way Chloe make them, such fabulous attention to detail and the thick leather is so user-friendly while remaining a design icon. The only thing is I suspect it will be out on hire rather a lot so I won't get to "test" it much! [Big sigh.]
Balenciaga City Classic
Now, we ummed about getting this, but our old red one was really loved by you, our dear members, so it seemed mad not to. This one hasn't got the long tassels but that makes it far more chic and a lot less likely to get caught in revolving doors etc! I do adore the soft aged leather and [like me??] will only improve with age, so I guess at the end of the day adding it to the Collection was the obvious thing to do.

Marc by Marc Jaobs Turnlock Clutch
Our first foray into the wonderful world of Marc by Marc Jacobs, but we have had a couple of requests for this, and also the Faridah. So, let's see how this one goes and we'll get you a Faridah very soon, just having a bit of a tricky time deciding which colour though - there are SO many to choose from, so do let us know if you have any preferences.

Guess Peace
Our Guess Collection is really popular at the moment and when we saw this lovely purple bag it jumped off the shelves at us. It's great to see a bit of colour - I know blacks and browns will always be popular but, by the very nature of hiring, going for something a bit different will bring some much-needed whimsy into our lives.

Marc Jacobs Blake
I have to admit I have added this to the site v e r y s l o w l y - purely so I get to spend some time with it! It's gorgeous this one, perfectly practical with its roomy pockets and yet fabulous to look at - a real head-turner.

Though when I started this post I was crazy about the Blake, now Chloe is calling me back like a Siren. Maybe I'll just get them all out of their dustbags for one last, lingering look before I pull myself together....

Enjoy them!
Love,
Jo. XX.

Time flies, bags come in and go out.....

2009-06-19T15:56:00.000-07:00

.....and so the world of HHHQ keeps turning. Five new bags coming online shortly, we're just getting the photographs sorted. I'm not sure I'm going to be able to bear letting at least one of them out on hire - you'll need to wrench it from me!

XX Jo.
P.S. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Amanda from Style Bible on Dating the Enemy this week, did you catch it? A different handbag every shot I noted, that's the way to go....

She's up and running!

2009-05-11T11:20:00.000-07:00

Thanks for your patience, World, our shiny new email system is now up and running. I've even got the hang of it, too! XX. Remember: enquiries@handbaghirehq.co.uk or jo@handbaghirehq.co.uk

Black Fendi Baguette and Silver Gucci Britt Hobo

2009-05-01T11:06:00.000-07:00

Last Friday was Yummy Mummies Night Out and after much umming and aahing, the black leather Fendi Baguette was my arm candy for the evening. As the white wine flowed I was relieved to have selected a bag with a strap so I could have it casually linked through my arm and could relax knowing its shiny leather bottom was pretty resilient. I loved it, but then we ALL know I'm a huge fan of Fendi, so I guess it was a foregone conclusion. There was one downside though. Considering its small size, I was delighted how many essentials I could fit in, but I did my usual trick of doing without a purse/wallet and putting cash straight in the bag, with a bank card to go to an ATM in case of emergency/empty kitty. This is where I encountered a size issue: my card slipped easily into the inner flap pocket, but when I needed to remove it at the cashpoint it was really difficult to get out. In some ways this could be a good thing, I mean, I did actually take enough cash with me for a night out and so perhaps this was a warning that it was time to call it a night.....! It did come out after a bit of manipulation though, and a good night was had by all. Stinking headache the next day, but as I say, I can't really blame the Baguette for that one....

Review #2....

So, the Gucci Britt Hobo was returned this week by one of our members and as I opened the package I thought, "Mm, you're quite sweet, aren't you?" and I decided to give it a roadtest.

I haven't used a traditional shoulder bag for a long time and it took a bit of getting used to, after lots of totes and armpit-huggers.

For a start, it's a delightful light silver colour. It's incredibly hard to get the colour accurate in our pictures, but its the sort of pale silver that seems to have white in it somehow - it's the sort of colour I would imagine a cloud's silver lining to be!

Then there's the perfect Gucci craftsmanship. The zips glide smoothly and the inner lining is glorious stripes.

The downside? It's a size issue I'm afraid. I really do carry around far too much stuff for something so petite. I got just about everything I needed in there, but it bulged in an ugly way and it ruined the overall look.

So it's back to a large tote for the Bank Holiday weekend. I haven't decided yet, but I'll let you know next week, when I tell you how I got on with it.

Bye for now and have a lovely weekend,

Jo. XX.

P.S. We are having a little work done on our email system, it should be up and running very soon, but if you have any enquiries or problems please call us on 01522 869444 or 0788 213 5252.

Calling all bag ladies.....

2009-04-18T01:10:00.001-07:00

We have donated a Lifetime Membership. It looks like a fabulous evening..... xx.

An update

2009-04-12T10:24:00.000-07:00

Loved the Christening, well, the whole weekend. It was SO romantic. The Christening was at Warsash, near Southampton, which is where I met James way back in 1994. So it was lovely to go back, with our brood, to show them and to dine at the Rising Sun, looking out over the Solent.
The Christening itself was great, too, and they are such wonderful friends of ours.
Aah bliss.
Though I can hear you dozing off now, so I'll get onto the bit you actually care about.... I took the Gucci twins with me, the two Hysteria bags from our Collection. The big, softie that is the Gucci Hysteria was my day bag, and a good job too, as it housed about 5 phones, a camera, spare batteries for aforementioned camera as they last a nanosecond, enough patch-it-up make-up to carry me through, 3 DS lites, one set of silver engraved cufflinks (boxed and wrapped) and the card to go with them, one cardigan and a weird assortment of shells, collected from the foreshore and one of which still contained a cockle, though that was of course removed before it started to whiff! Anyway, in the evening, I traded her in for her little sister, the Hysteria Clutch, which again was much-admired and subject to plenty of admiring strokes from various other guests.
I do love the Hysteria Clutch as it's got plenty of room inside, yet to the outside world it's a clutch and therefore only for minimalistas. Also, it's one that I saw in the ad campaigns and just knew we had to have for the site.

Once we got home, I had a yearning for a piece of English countryside amd I opted for our new Mulberry Roxanne. This roomy A4 was fabulous, really hitting the spot for a day bag. Every single rivet has the Mulberry logo on, it really is delightfully made with so much attention to detail. I was just thinking I'll keep a hold of this one for a while and then an exciting enquiry put paid to my plans. Ah well, ees no problem, back to the drawing board.... Look out for Roxanne, but that's all I can say for now. XX.

Time to move on....

2009-04-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

All good things must come to an end and now I think it's time to say goodbye to the beautiful shiny mushroom that is the Chloe Bay. We have had a glorious time together and the cavernous size is very easy to get used to, but now I am going to have a go at down-sizing. There's something about having plenty of room that just makes me feel I have to fill it up to the top, using every last mm of space....

Anyway, the Bay has turned lots of heads with its pure designer splendour. It is so obviously an expensive bag, the quality is blatant. I was in M&S last week and this lady just came over and touched it, not in a I'm-going-to-steal-your-bag-and-then-your-identity kind of a way (yes, I do still watch far too much TV) but in a OH-is-that-a-Chloe-Bay-I-just-have-to-have-a-closer-look kind of a way. There have also been a few men who have approached me, saying "I know I should recognise it, but what is that....?" Resisting the urge to tease them and actually being quietly impressed (hiding it well, of course), I answered "It's a Chloe...." which meant nothing to them, actually. One guy even rang a female colleague, obviously a bag fan, who confirmed that a Chloe is something worthy of swooning over.

So now, time for me to minimise. I'm not really sure so I'm going off for a browse. We're off to a Christening on Sunday, so I'm after something suitable for a journey and an occasion. Maybe a mid-size bag.

I'll let you know.....

Jo XX.

CBay

2009-03-20T12:43:00.000-07:00

Still loving it. The keenly-eyed amongst you will see it's no longer a Featured Product. That's because I might find it a bit hard to give this one up....
XX.

Welcome back, Surralan....

2009-03-19T11:10:00.000-07:00

Oh, I'm so delighted The Apprentice will be back with us soon. I'll be stuck in a hotel room on my own doing a heap of paperwork, so I will be able to watch without distraction.....

Anyway, how did I get on with the Louis Vuitton Batignolles? Well, for a weekend bag it was lovely. It's small-to-medium size, so I only transferred the essentials - all my weekday essentials just wouldn't have fitted. I do kind of enjoy minimising at the weekend, though, having a decluttered handbag helps me to feel somewhat liberated!

I admit to a twinge of delight when I was paying for fuel and lady, who had just filled up her shiny blue convertible CLK, me gave that look of "aah, Louis Vuitton....nice....." and I did enjoy the open-top style of the bag, allowing me to fling my purse back in and flounce out to the forecourt. Of course, this isn't very secure and so it's not the bag of choice for an Oliver Twist Area and I wouldn't use it on the tube. For that I'd go for the Speedy, especially with its natty little matching padlock.

So, now I've moved on. I'm "testing" the Chloe Bay now. I'm already pretty obsessed with it actually, it's incredibly practical and I've got SO much stuff in there! I love the fact that the patent leather is virtually bulletproof and the mushroom colour works fabulously with my favourite Spring jacket. The Bay is one of our Featured Products at the moment, which of course I have done on purpose to assuage my guilt. A guilty pleasure, "testing" these beauties!

BFN - ooh, that reminds me - is it the last Paris Hilton's BBF this week?! Can't believe Flick didn't make it to the final....
Love,
Jo. XX.

Tittle Tattle on Twitter

2009-03-13T09:36:00.000-07:00

Not one to have any willpower when it comes to getting sucked into fads, and certainly not ones that a host of celebrities are also into, I've given in without a fight and signed up to Twitter. So do have a look if you are a Twit too! I'm in as JOatHHHQ. See you there!

Now, on to more serious business. It's Friday today and in my world, Friday has always been Funday, so time to select a bag for the weekend. At the moment it's a choice between the MJ Palais Gray (we all need a little Marc Jacobs in our lives), the fabulously frivolous and shiny Gucci Hysteria or a neatly chic Louis Vuitton. Ah decisions, decisions.

Let's face it, they all have their attributes, but as I type I'm edging towards the traditional elegance of the Batignolles. Though the Gucci did just smile at me, I swear.....

I'm off to transfer my handbag-innards before I change my mind. Have an amazing weekend everyone,
Love,
Jo. XX.

Our Shiny Dior

2009-02-22T11:53:00.000-08:00

This weekend I've been um.... "trying out" our smaller Dior Cannage, the black vinyl version. It's totally user friendly - the long, thick leather strap is also the drawstring on the bag - such a simple idea and so chicly done.
I love a bag that you can open up and delve into - my life is hectic enough without having to spend ages digging about in the murky depths. The Cannage opens right up, so you get to see everything inside.... perfectly practical.
The dangly D is pure Dior and the aged silvery metalware compliments the black vinyl and matt leather.

So, that's a glowing report for the shiny one. I've been a bit of a handbag-harlot this week actually, bouncing around from one to the next. It has been half-term, so the Mini Mees and I have sampled the delights of various child-friendly haunts. A Fendi on Monday, Gucci Tuesday with a Fendi in the evening to celebrate James' birthday, Marc Jacobs on my shoulder on Weds, I went a bit racy on Thurs and went for the zebra-print Ri2K, then Friday the Small Cannage beckoned. You know, sometimes this job really sucks....

So, that's me and my update for now, except to say we've had a couple of notable bits of press: an interview and photo in Management Today and we were on page 3 of Saturday 21st February's Financial Times. No lewd jokes about FINALLY making it to page 3 purlease!!

James is also being interviewed about life with a Cougar! More on that later....

Bye everyone, happy browsing,
Love,
Jo. XX.

From Russia With Love.....

2009-02-04T12:25:00.000-08:00

Aah, the snow. Beautiful but can be treachorous. What if I were to be trapped in my car?

Now, not one to let an opportunity to change bags go by, I have created my very own Snow Survival Kit by grabbing one of our gloriously Big Bags and loading it up with all my essentials. I even have one of those silver 'blankets' that people wrap themselves up in after doing a marathon. Worth popping in, just in case....

So which bag have I selected for such a vital role? Well, it just had to be one of our new arrivals, so I went for the Fendi B Mix. So far I have put loads in there and it hasn't started to bulge or complain at all. Fantastic. The zip opens to about halfway down each side, so I can have a good old dig about in there. Marvellous.

I can't wait for other Fendi-fans to stop me in the street - this one is so recogniseable - though probably not one that none-designer-bag-lovers will know. Aah, tis great to be In The Know.

Now I must go and look for some dextrose tablets to go in the bunker, sorry Snow Survival Kit, and then I'm hibernating....

Back soon,

Jo. XX.

P.S. DROP YOUR HINTS!! Don't forget our fantastic Valentine's Offer....

Can't let go?

2009-01-12T01:44:00.000-08:00

I'm going through a bit of separation anxiety. I don't think I can put the Gucci Joy Boston back on the shelf and try out another bag. While I suspect you, dear reader, have very little simpathy for my predicament, I have to say now I know why members often email me to say they can't bear to let go.....

....now, if this happens to you, don't suffer in silence, just email me and ask for a price to Acquire - you might be surprised and we always take your most recently paid hire fee off the purchase price. Worth a try to ease the heartache.

Love,

Jo. XX.

New Year Joy

2009-01-07T11:06:00.000-08:00

Ah, the joy of a brand New Year. All those plans and resolutions. All that Christmas fare to exercise off....

No, hang on a minute, that's not the sort of joy I'm thinking about right now, I'm talking about the lovely Gucci Joy Boston, aka my current squeeze.

Yes, I'm on another of my Bag Trials, or Feeble Excuses to allow me to love and use all the newbies....

The Gucci Joy Boston is an absolute delight. It sits upright and looks beautiful as it does so. I was, I have to admit, skeptical about the size of the bag, concerned that I wouldn't be able to get all my essentials into it, but in the same way as the Louis Vuitton Papillon the structure of the bag allows for an unexpected cavernous space. Well, relatively. I've managed to get in my wallet, coin purse (which let's face it, the only reason the two aren't combined into one traditional ladylike purse are because they are two more favourite labels, Jaeger and Fendi and more is, well, more!), house keys, car keys, two phones (am I living a double life? I seem to have two of everything!), repair-work-make-up, my diary, two pens, a couple of post office receipts and the usual box of Ibuprofen. And there's still plenty of room, which was until about 5 minutes ago taken by enough sweets to buy me the time and peace to type this (BAD mother alert). So, I would say appearances can be deceptive.

I adore the Crystal GG canvas with the lovely dark gold leather trim. I don't know how I'm going to let this one go.... it's going to go with everything and I know it will be a talking point as it's blatant Gucci.

No doubt I'll be back soon with my thoughts on another of our New Arrivals, but in the meantime an extremely Happy New Year to everyone.

Bye for now,
Jo XX.

Our Christmas Presents to our Members....

2008-12-27T04:49:00.000-08:00

Hello everybody and I hope you are having a fantastic Christmas!

We haven't been resting on our laurels, or even holly bushes (ouch), this Christmas - no, we have been building our Collection, so have a look at our New Arrivals as soon as they hit the website.

Our fabulous fourteen range from the dinkiest black leather Fendi Baguette to an adorable studded Chloe Saskia. My favourite? Oh, I am so torn. As the world and his wife knows, I am a Fendi-obsessive, certified and I'm sure my heart is made from Zucchino fabric, but right now I'm looking from bag to bag, designer to designer, my heart flipping from one to another. I mean, there's the Guccis too.....

Right, I'm off to wallow in my quandary. (Ah, BLISS!) No, I mean, I'm off to put them on the site.....

Love,
Jo. XX.

Read all about it! Our shiny new Testimonial feature

2008-11-26T11:14:00.000-08:00

Ever wondered how well received the Handbag Hire HQ experience is? Read our brand new Testimonials page. Every comment made to us is greatly appreciated. It means a lot when someone takes time out to let us know they have loved our service, our fabulous bags, our Gift Certificates or anything else we do, be it a little bit of help along the way or an earth-moving mammouth task.

To access our Testimonials page, click on About Us and you will see the link.

Please keep the WOWs coming in - so we can continue to share them - and a huge thank you to everyone who has written to us,
Love,
XX Jo.

HOT NEW SPECIAL OFFER COMING NEXT WEEK!!

2008-11-26T03:40:00.001-08:00

HERE WE GO....

Christmas is coming and the Trafford's getting fat (well, we all need a little extra to keep us warm this winter if it's going to be as cold as predicted....) so Handbag Hire HQ have come up with an ingenious Christmas present for all your fashionista friends and rellies.

From Tuesday 2nd December, we are offering twice the membership period you pay for when you buy a Gift Certificate from us! So, if you buy someone special a six-month membership Gift Certificate, we will automatically give 12 months - how fabulous is THAT?!

Have a look at our Gift Certificates on the site, but also, please remember we can tailor-make the perfect gift package to suit your requirements, be it a novel Secret Santa present at work or a way to show your thanks and appreciation. We can add a personal note and can deliver the Gift Certificate either directly to the recipient or to yourself for approval/for putting by the tree.

*sigh*

Bye for now and er.... Merry Christmas, though at this stage I feel more like I should be saying "Merry Christmas Shopping!"
Love,
Jo. XX.

Newly converted....

2008-11-26T03:25:00.000-08:00

OK, OK, I'm convinced.... after a few days touting the lovely Hoxton I'm admitting I'm crazy about it! I'm thinking about renaming it "The Joe Swash of Handbags" - just like the IAC-GMOOH star himself, I originally thought: seems nice, not really my cup of tea, bit young for me maybe ("maybe??" - who am I kidding?!) but then as time has gone on, both Joe and the Hoxton have really grown on me. Now, I've previously tried a bag out that could be a Nicola McClean, interesting at first, able to cope surprisingly impressively with some tasks, but ultimately a bit, um.... irritating.... so the Burberry Hoxton has proved an absolute delight.

It is sooo roomy, which yes, I appreciate IS obvious given its dimensions, but there is a tendency with these flat bags to actually not be able to fit an awful lot in unless it's paper-thin. The Quilted One is made so beautifully that it can be filled width-ways without it destroying the lovely shape of the bag.

My main concern was that the solid-form strap would be painful on the shoulder if there was any weight in there: totally unfounded, although I have to say I found the bag naturally suited being held in the hand far better than sitting under my arm.

Verdict: very nice, VERY smart and very practical. Take a look at this and the rest of the new arrivals to the Handbag Hire HQ site, you'll love them.

Very very much love,
Jo. XX.

Where does the time go.....?

2008-11-20T07:34:00.000-08:00

Now, when I was a child, Christmas used to take AGES to come. Somehow, over the years, my concept of time seems to have changed completely and Christmas is upon me faster than VB on a new shade of Hermes.

So, we are already thinking of Christmas offers and delights for all our Handbag Hire HQ lovely members. Watch this space!!

As for me and my Bag Trials, the Burberry Hoxton has just come back in and I think I might have to test it out for a couple of days.... all in the name of Research and Customer Satisfaction of course. I will be loading the gorgeous quilted one as soon as I sign off from here, so I'll be back soon with my verdict....

Bye for now,

Jo. XX.

Brown Prada for Autumn

2008-10-22T04:55:00.001-07:00

Hiya,

This week I have been trotting about, swinging our mid-brown Prada Semitracolla. Now, I have shied away from this one, as I always considered it rather "grown up". It is roomy and it is Prada, but my favourite bits of the bag are the fabulous Prada lining, and the shiny metalware - in particular the knobbly feet on the bottom.

I admit it. This bag needs someone far more chic than me to carry it off. The school run and the mad dash to the nearest convenience store are not the lifestyle the Semitracolla deserves, and at the moment I just can't provide the stylish surroundings it was made to grace. So back to the Collection for something more me.

While I browse, pop a post it note on your fridge to watch or record the Alan Titchmarsh Show at 3.00pm Thursday 23rd on ITV1 and look out for Handbag Hire HQ! We also feature in Country Life this week and so grab a copy and take a peek....

XX Jo.

Yummy new Prada Shopping Slate

2008-10-09T13:41:00.001-07:00

This week's trial.....

2008-10-09T13:26:00.000-07:00

This week my arm candy of choice has been the lovely Louis Vuitton Speedy 30. Although actually only slightly bigger than the 25, it is a far more useful size and coped with my Bag-a-Tidy and all my usual paraphenalia. A traditional head-turner, the Speedy is one of those styles that will always endure. My only regret is that it's booked on the Waiting List for one of our members very soon, although today we took delivery of our latest acquisition, check out the Prada Shopping in Slate which has become the latest member for handbag hire. Current and gorgeous, I'm tempted to try it out, but I know there's a good chance I'll be swapping all my stuff over into another bag within a few hours - I think it will be really popular with our members. Ah well, will have to do more shopping then....

XX Jo.

I'm BACK!

2008-10-07T06:39:00.000-07:00

Hmm, did you even notice I'd gone!? I have been a bit slack on the blog front the last few weeks, because it has been mayhem here. We have done a thorough stock check, so you can be 100% sure the bags showing as available on the site are here just waiting for you to sample them.
We've also been down to London, checking out all the fabulous designer stores, choosing the best bags to purchase for the site. Such a chore.....

New members are joining at a rate of knotts - welcome all of you! The exciting part is - the more members we have the more shopping we can do for new bags! And don't forget, tell your friends about us as each one you recommend and who signs up will earn you a 10% discount off a bag hire.

Finally, I have become something of a Facebook Floozy - it's weirdly addictive and I have to be very disciplined. It's one of those things that just sucks the time away once I'm on it!

Talking of which, I'm just going for a sneaky log on....

XX Jo.

My 15 minutes of fame!

2008-09-11T13:30:00.000-07:00

I DID IT! I SURVIVED the airing of my appearance on The Weakest Link! It's still available on BBC iplayer to those in the UK if you want to have a laugh at my expense. It looks like it will be available until September the 16th so feast your eyes..... By the way, the researchers told me it's mostly only ever men who apply and they have a real shortage of young (-ish in my case!) ladies applying. So email the BBC pronto if you want to have a go! It was a laugh and I'm glad I did it. Wish I'd won though, shame I'm just not cleva enuff.

I got a REALLY exciting email today - yours truely has won something! Way back in June I entered a competition and now I am a proud "Winner of the MUMSCLICK Mothers in Business Competition". Yippee, I really am chuffed to bits!

Bye for now, happy hiring,
Love,
Jo. XX.

Win a Lifetime Membership of HHHQ!

2008-09-01T04:42:00.000-07:00

Hello World,

Bad news: our fabulous competition in Take a Break magazine has finished today. We had an amazing response, so thank you everyone who entered.

And the good news: That's Life! also has a competition running to win lifetime membership of Handbag Hire HQ, so you've got until 15th September to grab a copy and get your entry to us!

Don't forget to catch The Weakest Link, being aired on Tuesday 9th September at 5.15pm on BBC1. Not sure if I should be telling everyone I'm on it as I was a right dunce, but it was a great experience and a bit of fun.

Ah well.....

XX.

Lookie Here Lookie Here!*

2008-08-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

I am so over excited!! Check out five of our most beautiful bags starring in Style In The City - www.channelm.co.uk/lifestyle - watch Jemma do justice to our gorgeous arm candy.
Thought today couldn't get any better and then.... at last I heard from a researcher at the BBC, my (ridiculously-smiley) episode of the Weakest Link will be shown on Tuesday the 9th September at 5.15pm. Look out for me - I'm the one that clearly left my brain at home but was still determined to have a WHALE of a time....

*from Quentin Tarrantino's True Romance, in case it was driving you mad.

Catch us on TV!

2008-08-26T03:00:00.000-07:00

Hi World,

See Jemma from Sex In The City on Channel M sampling our delicious wares: catch it on Sky 203 or Virgin Media 878. I've got my Sky+ set, ready to record!

Hope all you hirers are enjoying your El Prado wine. Only a few days left ladies.....

Jo XX.

Plastic Fantastic!

2008-08-06T16:09:00.000-07:00

....Members! Hope you LOVE our gorgeous new membership cards. I can't wait for you to receive them in the post over the next few days.

Also, we just sent out our regular Newsletter. If you are not on the list, click on http://www.handbaghirehq.co.uk/ and sign up now! There's a box on the left hand side of our Home Page, halfway down. Just enter your email address and Robert is your papa's brother, as they say.

And I have a new obsession (yes, ANOTHER ONE!). It's on Wedding TV, on Sky channel 277, and is hosted by the gorgeous Lizzie Cundy. Set your Sky+ for Wags' World - experience the life of a WAG vicariously - and so without the sweaty, hairy bloke nicking your moisturiser or running about on a "training session" for 40 minutes and then complaining about having to do a hard day's work....

Take care,
Jo. XXXXX.

Well Travelled Bag Alert!!

2008-08-04T07:12:00.000-07:00

Hi World,

One of our lovely members has sent me a couple of pictures, showing the temporary-love-of-her-life, the gorgeous cream Chloe Paddington, on her travels in the US. Not sure how Davina found an invisible horse, but let's face it, you can find ANYTHING in America, can't you? The other photo is of the glamourous Davina getting ready for a wedding in Wyoming.

In fact, Chloe had an incredible month, accompanying Davina on her whirlwind trip, taking in New York, Salt Lake City and Atlanta. And Chloe's adventures didn't stop there, Davina took her NBF to Henley Royal Regatta, sailing on a yacht on the glorious Dorset coast, bowling in East London and even cooing at a star-studded baby shower. Ah, if only our bags could talk.....

Now, this got me wondering, our beautiful bags go on fantastic trips, so please do send in your pictures and tell me all about them. I'm sure it will make fascinating reading and I'd love to see our lovely members modelling our bags in all these exotic locations!
Please send your photos to me at jo@handbaghirehq.co.uk and get ready to be the star of the show!

Bye for now, got to get bags to the PO!
Love,
Jo. XX.

Summer is here - at last.....

2008-07-27T14:19:00.000-07:00

Hello Sunshine, you are so welcome!

So, what's new? Well, the large ball of fire in the sky brought out my cheery side and I spent a few days parading about with the larger of our Kipling bags. I tried the little one at first, but when I need a day bag I really need a day bag, so it was just never going to work out between us and I swapped for the bigger citrus after about two hours....

Using the larger one meant that I could continue my trial of the Bagatidy. Things are going pretty well there, although Spider-Man and the two fairies keep putting the light on - hope the novelty will wear off soon. Everyone who rings me actually gets to speak to me now, instead of the answerphone kicking in while I scrabble about in the bottom of my bag. Result!

I'm getting very excited about the El Prado offer starting soon. Remember, if you hire a bag for a month you'll not only get a gorgeous bit of arm candy, but a box of fabulous, fruity wine! Click on the ad on our Home Page for full details.

Handbags, eh? Enough to drive you to drink.....

XX.

Have a look at this....

2008-07-08T04:41:00.000-07:00

The Bite feature is on their site! Have a look at www.channel4.com/bite or click on http://www.channel4.com/entertainment/tv/microsites/B/bite/index.jsp - it's the second feature. Enjoy!

Order! Order!

2008-07-08T03:45:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's time for me to get my house in order. Well, handbag really, though most of the time I could live in my handbag, let's face it it's got everything in there apart from the kitchen sink anyway....
So, this week I'm trialling a new handbag organiser, before it goes live on our website. It's a really clever idea, it's a strip of tough material with lots of different-sized nooks and crannies and it loops around the perimeter of your bag, leaving the middle area free for large items that you need to grab quickly. Now, I have a Coach wallet, which is pretty big and a bit of a challenge for most bags. It's so heavy it disappears to the bottom and then gets caught on everything as I drag it up from the murky depths. So, imagine if you will, all my little fiddly bits secured around the inner edge of "my" Prada Shopping (this week's passion) and the Coach wallet wallowing in all that space in the middle. Fantastic; easy access. Dangerous for the bank balance, that.
And THEN there's a light, too, so even in the hours of darkness I can find everything I need. Will this newly-revived Virgoan characteristic stay with me? Who knows, but right now I'm very proud of my neat-and-tidy tardis.

Other news from the engine room, here at HHHQ HQ: Our lovely Gucci sunglasses have almost sold out now. We are delighted at the response to the new sunnies section of the site and hope to have more labels coming in very soon.
Also, look out for our competitions in That's Life! and Take a Break. Lifetime memberships up for grabs, so you could never pay your HHHQ subs again and STILL have access to all our glorious bags.

I've done a live radio broadcast this week, talking to Orla at Newstalk, an Irish station. One of our favourite members joined in, too, so between us the poor Orla must have been all bagged out! We were also in the Daily Mail on Monday, so do keep looking out for mentions of us and let me know if you spot one we haven't seen.

Must go and get packing (literally!)
Love,
Jo.

Mulberry Elgin, you are my new favourite....

2008-06-23T12:01:00.000-07:00

Fickle? Me? Oh come on....it's hard not to have your head turned when something as lovely as our Mulberry Elgin arrives. I know I was always Fendi Woman, but then that Burberry broadened my horizons and now hark at me, all it took was a whiff of that gorgeous Darwin leather....and then someone threw this little Marc Jacobs Stam into the mix....

Other news here at HHHQ:
Well, it looks like our sunglasses have proved very popular. We will be getting some more soon, so keep an eye out. Both eyes actually.

We've got lots of bits and bobs in the press coming up and an exciting feature on the Channel 4 website, Bite. It's all incredibly exciting. Still no news on when my appearance on the Weakest Link will be aired. Though in a way I think I ought to keep it quiet; I did a lot of grinning inanely and not much answering questions.

Bye for now,
Jo.

SATC and me

2008-06-06T14:47:00.000-07:00

Went to see SATC last week, feeling a bit of a fraud because, while I enjoyed the episodes I did watch and they left me thinking of quips etc for a couple of weeks afterwards, I was never an uberfan of Carrie and the girls. BUT I thoroughly enjoyed the movie and of course got a buzz from the references to handbag rental. The LV bag that Carrie bought her St Louise is available on the LV website and I am SO tempted to get it for the website. But we're going big-time shopping very soon so I should save the company pennies.....
We started doing sunglasses this week, it's agony because we've got all these beautiful creatures ready to unpack and I can't touch them - how could we sell them if I've got my foundation all over them? I would select one pair and buy them, but I'm unashamedly fickle. *sigh*

The Burberry and the Lady

2008-05-09T12:42:00.000-07:00

Well, that's it, I officially have a new obsession. After years of turning my already retroussez nose up at Burberry check, today we took delivery of the most delightful tote in yes - Burberry check. I take it all back, it's LOVELY! A bit like our LV Hampstead, in that it sits upright, all perky and self-contained. The only thing is I feel myself getting a bit attached to it already and it's going to be a wrench letting our members at it!

It's really ladylike, which is a good job because this week we're featured in The Lady magazine. There's a photo of me surrounded by the Collection. Sometimes this job is such hard work....

Shopping, shopping.....

2008-04-28T13:36:00.000-07:00

Yippee, off to buy more lovely bits for the website soon. No details yet, wait and see!!

Hello Handbaggers

2008-04-22T11:22:00.000-07:00

Hello World and welcome to my first ever blog. I'm from the fantastic website http://www.handbaghirehq.co.uk/ and the plan is to jot down things that have been going on around here in the glamourous but hectic world of designer handbag hire.

Already this week - and I can't really believe it's only Tuesday! - we've hired 5 bags to the BBC and I've been at Pinewood Studios to record the Weakest Link. I didn't win, but had a go and met some lovely people (too nice to vote off though, made it a bit awkward really!). I took the black patent Fendi B with me for luck and it was much admired.....

Can't wait for the Sex and The City film to come out - one of the main characters hires a designer bag.

My only other news is that our service now extends to all EU countries, have a look at the website for full T&C's.

That's it for now then, will be back when I have new news. I feel a shopping trip coming on so watch out for more new arrivals.....

Bye for now,

Love,

Jo.