Volks Halloween Party in LA

Sorry for the late reply...my reaction was that I suddenly died...
Oh poo...

 

aw... should've accept the invitation when i was there... o well.. too late now

 

Well knowing Volks they're going to be having a lot more events at the mansion or at other places around the country. Just because you can't make it to this one doesn't mean you won't get to one someday.

 

I wonder if people who don't need their guest invite wrote to Volks to tell them that, maybe Volks would send out additional invitations. After all, they need a head count and if alot of the people invited (or guests) don't come, they'll have much more food than they need as well anything else they might do like their little parting gift bags.

Just a thought.

 

First of all, I think we should wait until we match up unused guest invites with people on this list who didn't get invites. (For example, I haven't heard from hamsterlolly yet.) So if you need an invite and didn't get one - even if you didn't know to apply until too late - SPEAK UP NOW!

After that, perhaps it would be a good idea to let Volks know ASAP. My $0.02 ... Cindy

 

It's been a while since I've flown and this time will be the first with a 60cm doll. I'll bet there are others who are also interested in how to fly w/ a doll.

I seem to recall that many carry their dolls on board the airplane. With all the current security measures and changing rules, what is the safest, fastest, and easiest way to get pass the screening and then how to fit the doll once you're on the plane?

Thank you.

 

I had no problems flying with my two minis in a single hardside doll carrier (AngelRegion). It went through the X-ray machine fine, and fit the requirements to go in the overhead compartment (45 linear inches, for most airlines, but double-check with whoever you're flying with). So I think you'd be fine having your doll in a carrier.

(When it gets tricky is if you're flying with more than one 60cm doll! I'm doing that for YaoiCon and am still nervous about it.)

 

I've travelled a lot with my dolls and have found the best way is just in a regular carrier as your take-on luggage. Even the longest one fits in the overhead and I've even convinced them to let me keep my MSD carrier next to me -- can't have my little ones all scared and lonely in the overhead bin.

As for getting through security, I've gotten some funny looks before when they go through the x-ray -- especially in Japan -- but have never had them even open the carrier. I guess that dolls aren't considered a terrorist threat.

Good luck and I'll see you at the teaparty!

 

I went to Canada and back via plane since the new requirements hit. (This was like 5 days after the whole water bottle thing.) I had zero problems. I just took the carrier with me as my carry-on and put them in the overhead bin. On myway back from Canada, they stopped me to look inside, but once the saw it was just dolls, they were cool.

Just make sure you don't take any hairspray, gel, wig conditioner, etc on board. They'll confiscate it.

 

i remember when my family and i were coming back from japan and my cousin brought his brass knuckles, fireworks and matches in his carry on -_-;;! what an idiot! he's so lucky that the one that got pulled over was my poor obachan and not him!

 

i`ve received my invitation from volks, but thank you so much for thinking of me!! XD

i`m so excited for the party and can`t wait to meet everyone.. =^^=

 

Just a warning on what to expect if you're using LAX airport -- I got through my home airport with my Volks SD carrier as my carryon with no problems, it even fit under my seat with room to spare. However when I was at leaving through LAX to go back home, security stopped me and told me my Volks carrier was too long (over the maximum of 22 inches) and that I would have to check it as luggage. Even though I explained that it fit under my seat and that it as it was fragile, they wouldn't let me pass.

I almost missed my flight because I had to go back and wait in the luggage line again. They also didn't have any fragile tags to stick on my carrier, and I point blank refused to check my doll carrier without them. Finally I got escorted through the security checkpoint with the baggage supervisor who was luckily very understanding and let me take my Volks carrier as my carryon. But because of what happened, I'll be traveling with my yosds this time.. -___-

 

When I left the last party in August, I had no trouble going through security at LAX. They didn't even back it up to look at it again.

 

When I travel with my SD sized dolls, I've always been able to carry them on the plane with me. Most of the time I store them under the seat in front of me. There was one time when they wouldn't let me do that so I took my doll out of the bag (and he sat on my lap) and I let them stick the bag up top. I'm just so afraid to put the doll on top - people are so rough with that stuff.
Just adding my two cents.
-Am

 

I am using my guest pass for my mom
my friend couldn't make it either but now mom agreed to come!
Yay for moms!

What's everyone dressing up as?

 

If you have a regular-sized carry-on you can put an SD-sized doll in it, in a seated position. You can also carry a jacket or other soft clothing (doll clothing!) in it to help pad your doll. That way you can put the bag under the seat instead of in the overhead where other people's luggage can crush it! I traveled that way out of LAX recently with no problem. I have a doll carrier, but it's long and it can't fit too many extra items in it, so it's not as convenient for traveling by plane.

edit-- I put my doll in a cozy sack by fujiwara here on DoA, to protect him in my carry-on. I also use plastic face protectors puchased here--to keep his eyelashes on. Both work terrifically! In the cozy sack I can have him in a seated position so he'll fit in most common carry-ons.

 

I had gone through LAX before with no problems either, but for the teaparty last August I was stopped. I was sure it was just the guard being nitpicky that day, but I posted it as caution for something that can definitely happen.

 

Fukurou, Kellyhime, Lizzegirle, Nena, Am, Violet, April,
Thank you all for the traveling tips; they were all helpful.
Here's another way to haul our guys: I have a computer carrier sized for a 17" laptop; it's outside dims are about 18"L x 8"D X 16"H. My SD can fit in an upright seated position, knees bent. And it appears an MSD can also fit w/the SD. I'm fairly sure because of the bag's rectangular shape, it will fit easily under the seat.
The carrier is sturdy and has good paddiing so the dolls should be ok. And there's even a bit of room for a few clothes and accessories.

Thanks again for all your advice. I look forward to meeting you at the party.

 

I'm glad you did post it! I guess I have been VERY lucky.

I was really scared about going to Vancouver. I mean, you have to go through customs, and it was right after the last attempts with the water bottles. But as long as you act calm and realize that you aren't doing anything illegal, you should be fine.

 

Now one of my friends CAN go but the other can't. Anyone need assistance getting into the party? My friend has space for one guest still...

 

I hope no one mind my asking...I'm so excited about being able to attend the Halloween party that I'm being a little obsessive. And I'm the type who likes to know in advance what to expect. Thanks for understanding!

Just wondering...
The tiniest angels are gifts and only available by lottery, correct? Guests are included?

All the other items that are purchase-able during the party is only given to a person after s/he wins the opportunity: at the bingo games, and for this Halloween party, costume contests, (other ways?). Is this correct?

The contests and games: are they open to the guests also?

Can a person win multiple games or lotteries?

So theoretically, if a person doesn't win a single game, s/he might not spend any money at all...?

 

It's all good. I think everyone's really excited.

Questions more or less in order:

Sei-tenshi were available through bingo as prizes last time and I THINK they were lottery at the first event, I'm not sure. Reguardless they are gifts from Volks and 100% free and absolutely adorable and precious. We don't know if there will be any at the halloween party, just it's likely since Volks tends to have one or two per event in japan and so far more at the american events.

I doubt they'll be given out through the costume competition. Since they seem to be luck based, but if they were that would be really cool. Course I just think that cause I'm entering! XD

All games were open to everyone last time, that includes guests so I assume it will be the same this time. And as for limiteds they hold a lottery and if you win then you can choose to buy the doll. You don't need to buy anything during the whole event. Just if you want to you can enter for the ability to buy certain dolls.

Hope that clears a few things up. I can't wait till the party.

 

As far as I know, all of the big Dolpas that give away Sei Tenshi also do it through a bingo game. Even Volks giving away just ONE Sei Tenshi would be very generous, because at the big Dolpas they typically only have 3 for several thousand people attending, and these LA Sumika events are far smaller.

 

They had 5 sei-tenshi at the last LA party, and I believe about the same at the one previous. I have no clue how many were at the New York party, but I am pretty sure it was atleast 3.

But you are right, it is EXTREMELY generous of them to have any at all. That is why I think that these partys are so special...

 

The LA Sumika opening party had 10 Sei Tenshi, this is the highest known amount given at any event in any country.

 

Wow, I don't remember 10 being there. But then again, I didn't *really* know what Sei-tenshi were all about at that time.

 

The rules were changed again for US flights on September 26. http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm

Always double check the TSA website before you travel to get the most up-to-date travel guidelines

They say that the rules are unlikely to lighten up again, so before you travel buy the right plastic bags (quart-size with zipper top) and be SURE to put all liquid carry-ons (3 ounce or smaller containers) into one bag and that when you go through the security checkpoint and X-ray machines you send that bag of liquids through separately.

I've had 2 flights since the updated restrictions with no issues other than a gaggle of guards laughing at my poor Eleanore's expense at Reagan National, lol.

Have fun at the party, guys! I'm stuck in DC again next week, so no travel fundage for me

 

I find it amazing that you can take a seven-inch screwdriver in a carryon bag.

I've seen people take things like guitars and larger musical instruments on board...they're a lot bigger than doll bags, but I certainly understand why they wouldn't want to check them. I wonder if you have to get special permission for that first, and if you do, if that's the route we should be taking as well? I've never had any problems personally, but you never know.

 

I read that too and it says you can take scissors too! Pointy or dull, it just needs to be less than 4 inches. Thats crazy!

 

And at the NYC party it was 7 or 8 sei tenshis given away if I remember.....I didnt get one though I had a chance! Alex

 

Well either way, I am just happy to go and to finally share it with my husband. He's recently gotten into BJD's, and I'm so happy to be able to share it with him! I probably won't be able to afford any dolls this time around since I just took the car into the shop and walked out with a $2,200 bill! 0.0;; I'm trying to scrape together some stuff though.

 

7 sei tenshi last LA Party, won at Bingo, which included other prizes including a Black Cat Lucas and a Sweet Dreams Mimi (shhh, she came home with me

Other prizes at bingo was the Another You books and dvd, wigs, clothing and the post cards (no comments please).

Based on the Volks Blog, it looks like they may do the drawing this time for the prizes.

No idea what they will give as awards for costumes, this is new. As for One-offs, there is a drawing for each, but then they must be paid for. The Auction doll goes to the highest bidder. And at the first party each guest received a couple post cards and chocolate, the second each guest received an incense burner and a lovely piece of Volks jewelry.

 

I'm guessing for the costume contest, it might be sei-tenshis for the prizes....

 

Here's a question...

Everyone knows about the end of Daylight Savings Time that day, right? I would hate for people to be an hour "late" because one person's 1pm was different from Volks' 1pm.......I did a search, but didn't see it mentioned, thought I'd put it out there.

 

O.O! is it really that day *is really bad at day light savings time*

Ahh I havnt even started on my costumes and I'm haveing to go out of town the week of the party so no last minute trips to Joanns >.<

 

Bwahahah, I was wondering about that....

 

So does that mean 3am "Saturday" morning or 3am "Sunday" morning? Is it that Sunday's times will be changed or Monday's?

 

I think think think its Sunday morning going into Monday. >.< I never know! I always watch the news that day and they tell me when to change the clocks.

 

It's always Sat going into Sun

 

Yep, it changes at 2am Sunday morning.

I just figured someone needed to bring it up. Maybe I should email Volks about it, just in case.

 

I swear I heard somewhere that daylight savings time was going to be stopped. Now I don't know where I heard it or if it was supposedly this change or the next but I sure was hoping it was so. I hate it getting dark at 5pm. Has anyone else heard this ever?

Vicki

 

I doubt that greatly. I think Volks prefers Sei-Tenshi to be won by chance, rather than awarded. I've never even heard of them giving them as special gifts. I wouldn't mind if you were right though.

 

It's going to be extended in 2007, beginning in early March and ending the first week of November. That's from the Energy Policy Act passed last year. I guess they're going to extend it, see if that helps energy usage, and then decide whether to revert back to April/October or not. Nothing about stopping it or having it be in effect all year...we still get to reset the clocks twice a year, just on different days.

 

Thanks for the info. I had no idea where I got that in my brain. I do remember when I was much much younger, that we had a time when they did it differently because of an energy crisis. All I remember is standing at the bus stop to go to high school in the dark!! It was just wrong.

Good thing someone brought this up though. I would never have thought of it.

 

Hey, what hotel(s) are people staying at? My friend and I usually end up in one kinda out there in L.B. It'd be kinda nice to stay at one with some other people. Maybe we could all go out to dinner or something Sat night.

 

Toppi updated her blog regarding the time change.

 

Good, they finally posted it. I wasn't sure if they were going to email the invitees or what. Hopefully everyone will check the blog or see it posted here.

Not too much longer now!

 

I can't wait til the party I'm working on a costume for my girl as we speak ^^

 

small gecko,
Thanks for sharing the info on the time change.
Do you think that means the party will end earlier (5:00 pm?)
==============
Does anyone have an extra doll stand for an SD size doll they can sell to me? I'm having no luck at finding a store nearby that sells them. I could really use the stand at the costume party. THANK YOU!

 

I think it will start/end the time they posted, you just need to make sure your clock is set correctly. Remember, we're gaining an hour this time, not losing it.

 

I'm not going to be able to go. I couldn't get off work. I want to email Volks and let them know that my guest and I won't be able to attend. Has anyone done that before? It's last minute, so even though I want them to know I won't be able to attend, they probably won't be able to send out another invitation for someone who didn't get one. That makes me feel sick that I've taken up a spot but won't be able to go.

 

I would think they would appreciate you telling them that you can't come. They do plan for food and gift bags (if they have them).

 

Going to the Volks Halloween party. Wonder what hotel people are staying at?

 

hi Gina~ some of us are staying at Super 8 in Torrance.
http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Super_8_Torrance_Los_Angeles_Airport_Area.htm
it`s near the airport so that`s good!!

can`t wait to see you at the party.. ^^

 

FireFlyTranc and I are staying near Disneyland, and will be with our significant others. So there probably won't be any full-fledge gathering before or after this time.

 

Anyone NOT staying at the Super 8... I really don't like those. I have bad luck.

 

i`m sorry, but i didn`t say that you`re staying there.. have you ask everyone?? please don`t be so mean.

 

didn't mean for that to sound mean. I just don't like Super 8 motels. The first time I stayed in one the sheets had lots of hairs and the second time there was urine in the toilet. I made the "not" in caps to get attention.

 

ohh sorry if i missunderstood.. -_-;;

i`ve never stay there before, and i didn`t choose it. someone offered me a room.. and i know nothing about this hotel. ^^;;