2002 Kauai Vacation Trip Winner

Island Soap & Candle Works was pleased to announce the winner of our Tell-A-Friend free trip to Kauai contest for the year 2001.  Our winner was Deborah Vass from Hollywood, California.

On October 19, 2002, I started my contest-winning trip to the garden island of Kauai. I was very much in need of some serious rest and relaxation, so had made no concrete plans to speak of.

Everything that Island Soap and Candle planned for me (the airfare, condo, etc.) worked out perfectly, and that was the most important part of the trip. As long as I got there, I knew it would be heaven!

Marlena met me at the airport with a basket of goodies, island information, and the most wonderful guidebook of the island that became my bible. After picking up my rental car, I drove north to my condo in Princeville.

The entire trip was absolutely wonderful. Each day I consulted my guidebook and sought out different beaches. Once I was the only person on the most beautiful beach I had ever seen in my life. It was like being on a deserted island. That was a wonderful feeling and an incredible day. (I have a photograph of that beach on my desk at work to look at and remember that feeling!)

One day I went kayaking (something I have always wanted to do), and a slight rain shower didn't slow me down one bit! I went to the Kilauea store location of Island Soap and Candle twice, and stocked up on products and gifts, as well as some early Christmas shopping. It was a lovely store and it was so nice to meet some of the employees.

A few days later I went down to the factory in Kapa'a to meet those folks, as well. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. The funny thing about the factory was that even though there was no sign out in front identifying it, I could easily find it by the wonderful scents wafting out of it!

I can't thank Island Soap and Candle enough for enabling me to win this prize! Not only do I love your products and would buy them without the temptation of a trip, but now you have a lifelong customer for sure.

Deborah Vass

On Being Notified

"I couldn't believe the e-mail message telling me I'd won a trip to Kaua'i."

As familiar as I am with Island Soap Company's products (I use them on a regular basis) and even though I remembered entering the contest, it still seems unbelievable. I have never won anything!

I first discovered your products at a little gift shop in Solvang, CA. After I had used those up, I realized I must have more! I did a search on the Internet to see if I could order them that way, and found Island Soap Company's Web site. While I was ordering, I decided to enter the Kaua'i vacation contest. However, never having had any luck with contests, I put it out of my mind. Then I got that wonderful e-mail: "Remember the Island Soap Company?"

I last visited the Hawaiian Islands about 25 years ago, and am very anxious to be there again. I have very fond memories of Kaua'i, especially of the Fern Grotto, and can't wait to return. I especially can't wait to buy more products in your island store! Thank you Island Soap Company!!"

Deborah Vass
Hollywood, CA