would you recommend the "mixed bumper pack (50% off)" for newbies?
Definitely. If you're particularly troubled about 'liking it' or not you might want to order a few individual products, but that's probably only delaying the inevitable. Take the plunge and then you're committed to giving it your best shot.
how often do you order your packs & how many to you order at a time? i was thinking about buying a months worth every 3wks so i've always got some on hand?
I only do it a month at a time. I get to week 3 and made a conscious decision to buy another month's worth. Will probably continue that pattern. As and when a TFR ceases to be practical or appropriate, then I'll stop.
also how much do you spend on exante a month & do you think it's worth it?
About £100, the sum total of the bumper pack price; plus sparkling water, many and varied comedy teabags (every now and then just so I can feel like I've bought 'something'), and the occasional can of pop. *ahem*
I probably didn't spend that much more on food on a weekly basis, but given that I'm saving a mint by not buying alcohol, then yes.
oh & any tips for starters?

thanks so much!
Stick at it - first week is pretty crummy, but it'll pass and it'll be worth it in the end

Find yourself a few distracting hobbies, and re this website - ask, rant, comment, anything; don't let problems or worries go unsaid.
