Who's already getting ready??

[TabbyKat Boutique]

So there was a post that lead to this group being opened, it didn't get followed up and its closed now to replies so I thought I'd start a new thread. So who's already getting ready??? I know I am, not am i just getting myself ready i'm working on stuff for my boutique and for the models that I will be having at Viva this year. So if anyone needs some great custom vintage clothing let me know I have some fabulous designs. But anyway I'm very excited and can't wait for this coming year its gets better every year that I go.
Someone asked about bowling at VIVA, there is a group that bowls every year for a tournament type thing, there are trophies and even bands this year. It's on Saturday at 5. there is more information about it at their myspace. myspace.com/ FGBL Its a blast every year and the group of people are fantastic. You dont have to be a pro or anything of the sort its just for fun and a little competition.

[TabbyKat Boutique]

Don't worry about the being bad at bowling I'm not the best either especially since i have to bowl left handed now since i had a really bad break on my right hand. There's even a last place trophy, its really more about meeting new people and having a great time. As for vendors they can be great and sometimes suck. Some run specials the whole weekend others seem to have raised their prices for Viva, it really all varies and depends on how much you have to spend. I have a really big problem of looking at things and going for that price I can make it twice as good. There are some really awesome trinkets and what not though, i come home every year with something for the kiddies. I buy some things but mainly i just way over pack in all departments, especially shoes. I usually have a whole suitcase just for shoes.

Andrea Wascher said:

I hear you guys about the weight loss thing...I'm at weight watchers working on my girlish figure! and yeah, I want some clothes for the trip but don't want to buy stuff now so I'm building my accessory wardrobe, and working on getting fabulous hair and nails...what are the vendors like at VLV? does it really work to just buy some pieces there? (do the venders lower the prices at VLV?) I don't know what to expect.

[Kristy C]

"Andrea Wascher said:

I hear you guys about the weight loss thing...I'm at weight watchers working on my girlish figure! and yeah, I want some clothes for the trip but don't want to buy stuff now so I'm building my accessory wardrobe, and working on getting fabulous hair and nails...what are the vendors like at VLV? does it really work to just buy some pieces there? (do the venders lower the prices at VLV?) I don't know what to expect."

You are doing the right thing....especially if you plan on being a different size in April. Save money then shop till you drop a week beforehand. I do! So far I have only bought one dress and I bought it a size smaller than I am right now, hehe:) Hair and nails: also important. I always get a trim and color touch up usually the Monday before. I don't do fake nails but I do an at-home mani/pedi the night before we leave. As far as the vendor situation at Viva, my advice would be to hit them up on Thursday as soon as they open. Don't wait. Everything can be pretty picked over by late Friday. Last year we didn't get in town until Friday morning.........I hit up the vendors Friday night and left empty handed. Sizes were gone, there was either super teeny tiny or XXXL stuff left. Then the stuff I did find that fit was like $100, and I, personally, couldn't afford it. Also don't expect any discounts.......everything is about the same price it is normally. I always want to support the vendors.....so this is in no way meant to discourage. There is just a dynamic to it all :)

Definitely don't come empty handed, I would come as fully prepared as possible. Then if you find something new to wear, rad! If not, you'll still have a back-up. I came empty handed last year from lack of planning and thinking we weren't gonna go.....and ended up having to wear the same dirty clothes twice.

[Kristy C]

Jenny Starr *SGC* {Cherry Girl} said:

But can a gal really overpack? So what's in having to buy an extra suitcase to bring it all home right? I decided to crack down too and am going to work my butt off to drop the last 15-20 lbs. More so to tone up so I feel confident around all the beauties that will be there! I just can not wait!

The answer is NO! :) No such thing as being too prepared. I'll take being over-packed over under-packed any day! I was under-packed last year and felt so un-sexy having to wear the same skirt and shirt twice that I had sweated in (from dancing) and was stained from a drink being spilled on me. The Rio wanted like $20 to launder the shirt and we couldn't afford that. I found NOTHING at the vendors, partly because it was late in the weekend and partly my bad luck.

[Kristy C]

I want to emphasize that Viva IS about the cars, music, and friends, period. BUT for some of us, this is the one time of year we get to go all out, and some of us take it serious! Like me:) Having to wear jeans and t-shirts for work every day, then being able to break the f*** out of the rut for pure glam in Vegas is something that makes me VERY happy!

Sometimes I feel kind of silly getting so wrapped up in the planning of the fashion and vanity aspect, but have to remind myself that this is my once a year vacation......... so WHY NOT get all wound up around the axle about it? :)

[Kim Bombshell]

I'm getting ready! I've lost 30 pounds since July, and plan to lose at least 20 more. I'm working at a vintage store now, and have been collecting some really amazing vintage dresses to wear. Have a roomie and people riding with me, so I can do it on a budget. Can't wait!

[Lucky Tuskedero]

The vendors are great. When you get there start shopping immediately and if they don't have your size out just ask. Sometimes they have more merch available. It isn't always a sure thing you can make outfits there. Just be sure you have you swim wear and a few perfect dresses. I made the mistake of not being well enough prepared one year and it was sad. You can always find incredible sun umbrellas(a must), handbags, stockings and tees.

Andrea Wascher said:

I hear you guys about the weight loss thing...I'm at weight watchers working on my girlish figure! and yeah, I want some clothes for the trip but don't want to buy stuff now so I'm building my accessory wardrobe, and working on getting fabulous hair and nails...what are the vendors like at VLV? does it really work to just buy some pieces there? (do the venders lower the prices at VLV?) I don't know what to expect.

Christi I *AZVK* said:

Oh no, don't get me wrong it's not really an involuntary thing ;) well, kinda. I like to book shoots at Viva, so I diet and excercise a little more than usual....I mean I really bust some butt. I also get stressed out over saving money, amongst other things. Last year my husband and I stressed so much trying to get our car ready to take that we both hardly ate for about two weeks. Him because he was working 12 or more hours a day on the car and I was working extra shifts to replenish the $$ we were spending on parts! We do tend to stress a little every year beforehand but it's SO worth it.....

Jenny Starr *SGC* {Cherry Girl} said:

I "wish" I had the problem of losing too much weight before Viva! Lucky Lady!! I am trying to lose 15-20 lbs before it! Already dropped about 60 over the past few years, but that last bit is stubborn as hell!!! Hope I reach my goal so I can look fab at Viva!! Can't wait!!

Christi I *AZVK* said:

Oh me, me, me! I have already bought a few small things and am making lists for other etc. I agree with Jenny this has been a crazy year....and we are ready for this more than ever. Last year we almost didn't go cause money and life were stressful, but made it anyway. Well, we've somehow made it through another year with new beginnings and this Viva is gonna be amazing!

I haven't bought any clothes yet, I usually have a few pieces with me but buy from the vendors when I get there. I lose so much weight every year before Viva that I have bought dresses in the past beforehand then not fit in them come time to go to Vegas. I had a beautiful dress custom made for me one year....that was too big when I did a final try on, took it to an alterations place and they RUINED it. Charged me an arm and a leg, too. Never again!

We are also making alot of changes/replacing things/saving for parts on our 54 Chevy too. This will be the first year since '06 that she is going to Viva, so we want to make sure everything is just right.

I am so ready for the BEST car show ever......because our car will be there. We've missed out bringing it for the last 3 years from lack of money and needing alot of work.....now we finally have it back again and there is nothing like having your car with you at Viva. It just makes an awesome time even better.

[Kim Bombshell]

Vendors will sometimes lower prices on Sunday only! I've found that some vendors jack the prices up for Viva, and some keep them the same. It is great to actually be able to try on the clothes that I see online, since I have a much smaller waist in ratio to my hips.

One thing on my list of must gets is a pair of Freddy's of Pinewood jeans. They are the high waist girl jeans, designed like the late 40s, early 50s ladies dungarees. They also have overalls. Last year I couldn't get them over my hips, but this year, I will prevail!

Andrea Wascher said:

I hear you guys about the weight loss thing...I'm at weight watchers working on my girlish figure! and yeah, I want some clothes for the trip but don't want to buy stuff now so I'm building my accessory wardrobe, and working on getting fabulous hair and nails...what are the vendors like at VLV? does it really work to just buy some pieces there? (do the venders lower the prices at VLV?) I don't know what to expect.

Christi I *AZVK* said:

Oh no, don't get me wrong it's not really an involuntary thing ;) well, kinda. I like to book shoots at Viva, so I diet and excercise a little more than usual....I mean I really bust some butt. I also get stressed out over saving money, amongst other things. Last year my husband and I stressed so much trying to get our car ready to take that we both hardly ate for about two weeks. Him because he was working 12 or more hours a day on the car and I was working extra shifts to replenish the $$ we were spending on parts! We do tend to stress a little every year beforehand but it's SO worth it.....

Jenny Starr *SGC* {Cherry Girl} said:

I "wish" I had the problem of losing too much weight before Viva! Lucky Lady!! I am trying to lose 15-20 lbs before it! Already dropped about 60 over the past few years, but that last bit is stubborn as hell!!! Hope I reach my goal so I can look fab at Viva!! Can't wait!!

Christi I *AZVK* said:

Oh me, me, me! I have already bought a few small things and am making lists for other etc. I agree with Jenny this has been a crazy year....and we are ready for this more than ever. Last year we almost didn't go cause money and life were stressful, but made it anyway. Well, we've somehow made it through another year with new beginnings and this Viva is gonna be amazing!

I haven't bought any clothes yet, I usually have a few pieces with me but buy from the vendors when I get there. I lose so much weight every year before Viva that I have bought dresses in the past beforehand then not fit in them come time to go to Vegas. I had a beautiful dress custom made for me one year....that was too big when I did a final try on, took it to an alterations place and they RUINED it. Charged me an arm and a leg, too. Never again!

We are also making alot of changes/replacing things/saving for parts on our 54 Chevy too. This will be the first year since '06 that she is going to Viva, so we want to make sure everything is just right.

I am so ready for the BEST car show ever......because our car will be there. We've missed out bringing it for the last 3 years from lack of money and needing alot of work.....now we finally have it back again and there is nothing like having your car with you at Viva. It just makes an awesome time even better.

[Miss Lizzy D. Vine {★}]

I can't wait and plans are almost set. Can't wait!

[Jenny Starr]

Your stories of past Viva exeriences and packing helped me convince my boyfriend that I DO need to pack enough! He insisted that I didn't and I made him read what you guys wrote! So I was able to convince him that even if I bought something there, I couldn't take the chance in case I didn't. (He knows how miserable I'd be if I left something home 3000 miles away!) I can't wait! It's so hard not to squeal everytime I talk about needing a vacation, but I can't let the cat out of the bag just yet at work. I still need that time approved! I was putting the cart before the horse when I booked the trip and bought my VIVA tickets before actually getting permission to take that time away from work...but too many times I've had to skip Viva because I couldn't get the week off. So though I may return from Vegas and have to go directly to the unemployment line...at least I will finally be able to say I've experienced the greatest weekend I'll ever exerience!

Kim Bombshell said:

Vendors will sometimes lower prices on Sunday only! I've found that some vendors jack the prices up for Viva, and some keep them the same. It is great to actually be able to try on the clothes that I see online, since I have a much smaller waist in ratio to my hips.

One thing on my list of must gets is a pair of Freddy's of Pinewood jeans. They are the high waist girl jeans, designed like the late 40s, early 50s ladies dungarees. They also have overalls. Last year I couldn't get them over my hips, but this year, I will prevail!

Andrea Wascher said:

I hear you guys about the weight loss thing...I'm at weight watchers working on my girlish figure! and yeah, I want some clothes for the trip but don't want to buy stuff now so I'm building my accessory wardrobe, and working on getting fabulous hair and nails...what are the vendors like at VLV? does it really work to just buy some pieces there? (do the venders lower the prices at VLV?) I don't know what to expect.

Christi I *AZVK* said:

Oh no, don't get me wrong it's not really an involuntary thing ;) well, kinda. I like to book shoots at Viva, so I diet and excercise a little more than usual....I mean I really bust some butt. I also get stressed out over saving money, amongst other things. Last year my husband and I stressed so much trying to get our car ready to take that we both hardly ate for about two weeks. Him because he was working 12 or more hours a day on the car and I was working extra shifts to replenish the $$ we were spending on parts! We do tend to stress a little every year beforehand but it's SO worth it.....

Jenny Starr *SGC* {Cherry Girl} said:

I "wish" I had the problem of losing too much weight before Viva! Lucky Lady!! I am trying to lose 15-20 lbs before it! Already dropped about 60 over the past few years, but that last bit is stubborn as hell!!! Hope I reach my goal so I can look fab at Viva!! Can't wait!!

Christi I *AZVK* said:

Oh me, me, me! I have already bought a few small things and am making lists for other etc. I agree with Jenny this has been a crazy year....and we are ready for this more than ever. Last year we almost didn't go cause money and life were stressful, but made it anyway. Well, we've somehow made it through another year with new beginnings and this Viva is gonna be amazing!

I haven't bought any clothes yet, I usually have a few pieces with me but buy from the vendors when I get there. I lose so much weight every year before Viva that I have bought dresses in the past beforehand then not fit in them come time to go to Vegas. I had a beautiful dress custom made for me one year....that was too big when I did a final try on, took it to an alterations place and they RUINED it. Charged me an arm and a leg, too. Never again!

We are also making alot of changes/replacing things/saving for parts on our 54 Chevy too. This will be the first year since '06 that she is going to Viva, so we want to make sure everything is just right.

I am so ready for the BEST car show ever......because our car will be there. We've missed out bringing it for the last 3 years from lack of money and needing alot of work.....now we finally have it back again and there is nothing like having your car with you at Viva. It just makes an awesome time even better.

[Kim Bombshell]

I have one suitcase dedicated to shoes alone!!!!

Jenny Starr *SGC* {Cherry Girl} said:

Your stories of past Viva exeriences and packing helped me convince my boyfriend that I DO need to pack enough! He insisted that I didn't and I made him read what you guys wrote! So I was able to convince him that even if I bought something there, I couldn't take the chance in case I didn't. (He knows how miserable I'd be if I left something home 3000 miles away!) I can't wait! It's so hard not to squeal everytime I talk about needing a vacation, but I can't let the cat out of the bag just yet at work. I still need that time approved! I was putting the cart before the horse when I booked the trip and bought my VIVA tickets before actually getting permission to take that time away from work...but too many times I've had to skip Viva because I couldn't get the week off. So though I may return from Vegas and have to go directly to the unemployment line...at least I will finally be able to say I've experienced the greatest weekend I'll ever exerience!

Kim Bombshell said:

Vendors will sometimes lower prices on Sunday only! I've found that some vendors jack the prices up for Viva, and some keep them the same. It is great to actually be able to try on the clothes that I see online, since I have a much smaller waist in ratio to my hips.

One thing on my list of must gets is a pair of Freddy's of Pinewood jeans. They are the high waist girl jeans, designed like the late 40s, early 50s ladies dungarees. They also have overalls. Last year I couldn't get them over my hips, but this year, I will prevail!

Andrea Wascher said:

I hear you guys about the weight loss thing...I'm at weight watchers working on my girlish figure! and yeah, I want some clothes for the trip but don't want to buy stuff now so I'm building my accessory wardrobe, and working on getting fabulous hair and nails...what are the vendors like at VLV? does it really work to just buy some pieces there? (do the venders lower the prices at VLV?) I don't know what to expect.

Christi I *AZVK* said:

Oh no, don't get me wrong it's not really an involuntary thing ;) well, kinda. I like to book shoots at Viva, so I diet and excercise a little more than usual....I mean I really bust some butt. I also get stressed out over saving money, amongst other things. Last year my husband and I stressed so much trying to get our car ready to take that we both hardly ate for about two weeks. Him because he was working 12 or more hours a day on the car and I was working extra shifts to replenish the $$ we were spending on parts! We do tend to stress a little every year beforehand but it's SO worth it.....

Jenny Starr *SGC* {Cherry Girl} said:

I "wish" I had the problem of losing too much weight before Viva! Lucky Lady!! I am trying to lose 15-20 lbs before it! Already dropped about 60 over the past few years, but that last bit is stubborn as hell!!! Hope I reach my goal so I can look fab at Viva!! Can't wait!!

Christi I *AZVK* said:

Oh me, me, me! I have already bought a few small things and am making lists for other etc. I agree with Jenny this has been a crazy year....and we are ready for this more than ever. Last year we almost didn't go cause money and life were stressful, but made it anyway. Well, we've somehow made it through another year with new beginnings and this Viva is gonna be amazing!

I haven't bought any clothes yet, I usually have a few pieces with me but buy from the vendors when I get there. I lose so much weight every year before Viva that I have bought dresses in the past beforehand then not fit in them come time to go to Vegas. I had a beautiful dress custom made for me one year....that was too big when I did a final try on, took it to an alterations place and they RUINED it. Charged me an arm and a leg, too. Never again!

We are also making alot of changes/replacing things/saving for parts on our 54 Chevy too. This will be the first year since '06 that she is going to Viva, so we want to make sure everything is just right.

I am so ready for the BEST car show ever......because our car will be there. We've missed out bringing it for the last 3 years from lack of money and needing alot of work.....now we finally have it back again and there is nothing like having your car with you at Viva. It just makes an awesome time even better.

[Kristy C]

OK so I am getting frustrated with Ebay, again. I have this crazy obsession with wearing stuff at VLV that I won't see 50 other girls wearing. There is just something embarassing about that, I dunno what........especially when the other girl looks wayyyyyyyyyyy cuter in the damned thing. Doubly embarassing.

Been shopping fiercely.....soooooo many Collectif knock-offs. No thanks. Alot of really cheaply made stuff that is trying to be passed off as "rockabilly clothing" as well as a ton (way too much) of Lucky 13.

And just when I think I have found a one-of-a-kind piece that I am SURE no one else will have, I find it being sold on a popular website. I had my eye on this killer dress for 7 days (was gonna "Buy it now") I had never seen it before, and I was sure that it was rare. Low and behold........I find it being sold on TooFast.com which pretty much = 200 girls are gonna be wearing it.

I guess the only way to GUARANTEE that no one else will be wearing something you have is to go vintage. I am gonna peruse over there. I Love vintage, I just find that I have a hard time fitting in it, and I don't want to deal with alterations this year.

The search continues!!!!!!!!

[Kim Bombshell]

I have been finding bargains on ebay lately...vintage deadstock for $50 and I got a late 40s dress for $10! It's a buyers market...do a search for "Vintage 1950s dress" and be sure to know your measurements! Also, don't go for things that popular sellers are selling because they will go for over $100 for sure!

Christi I *AZVK* said:

OK so I am getting frustrated with Ebay, again. I have this crazy obsession with wearing stuff at VLV that I won't see 50 other girls wearing. There is just something embarassing about that, I dunno what........especially when the other girl looks wayyyyyyyyyyy cuter in the damned thing. Doubly embarassing.

Been shopping fiercely.....soooooo many Collectif knock-offs. No thanks. Alot of really cheaply made stuff that is trying to be passed off as "rockabilly clothing" as well as a ton (way too much) of Lucky 13.

And just when I think I have found a one-of-a-kind piece that I am SURE no one else will have, I find it being sold on a popular website. I had my eye on this killer dress for 7 days (was gonna "Buy it now") I had never seen it before, and I was sure that it was rare. Low and behold........I find it being sold on TooFast.com which pretty much = 200 girls are gonna be wearing it.

I guess the only way to GUARANTEE that no one else will be wearing something you have is to go vintage. I am gonna peruse over there. I Love vintage, I just find that I have a hard time fitting in it, and I don't want to deal with alterations this year.

The search continues!!!!!!!!