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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Trying to shop small...not going well.

8 replies

TooManyAnimals94 · 14/12/2021 12:32

So this year I have tried to buy most of my presents from independent shops. I have really struggled to find anything in physical shops so compromised and most gifts have come from Etsy or secondhand from ebay.
For my baby daughter I wanted to get her a bracelet with sapphires (her birthstone) I know she won't appreciate this year but indulge me as a silly FTM. I thought I could give it to her when she's older along with some baby photos and other keepsakes. Anyway, I digress.
I went to my local jewellers about a month ago and they didn't have anything in stock but the guy said he would make something up for me. I was very pleased thinking it would be even nicer to have something unique.
Went back on Friday as I was a bit surprised I hadn't heard from him but thought busy time of year etc. He had obviously completely forgotten my order and tried to blame it on staff being off with covid but he had to note down what I wanted again so I knew he had no idea what I was on about. He said he would call yesterday when he had some sapphires in for me to look at but I've not heard anything.
I'm a bit annoyed because I'm not sure why I'm chasing to try and give him money. I have found a bracelet I really like on H Samuel now so I don't know whether to just buy that one or give the guy one more chance and pop down there this afternoon.

WWYD?

YABU -just give the guy a call he's probably been busy
YANBU - he's had his chance, go to H Samuel

OP posts:
CheesyFootballsAreEvil · 14/12/2021 12:43

He's had enough chances. It's up to him if he wants to provide appalling service you don't have to support his ridiculous business model

MissMinutes24 · 14/12/2021 12:43

Go to H Samuel

Beautiful3 · 14/12/2021 13:09

Go to H Samuel before you miss out

minipie · 14/12/2021 13:26

I’d say Etsy.

They are small businesses on there, so you are still shopping small, but unlike the local jeweller you will be able to see something that actually exists and you can buy there and then.

I don’t think your guy deserves another chance tbh, plus I wouldn’t want to buy something that he’s going to get made in a hurry without you seeing any designs etc.

BridStar · 14/12/2021 13:33

Even Etsy is rarely handmade. A lot of sellers just buy in tat from Chinese wholesalers. Always double check the item isn't on AliExpress selling for 1 cent each.

There's a good chance the bloke you're talking to isn't some artisanal craftsman either. Just waits for the wholesaler to ship the next batch.

minipie · 14/12/2021 13:45

Yes true, though you can generally tell
If sellers take custom orders that’s generally a good sign

crochetmonkey74 · 14/12/2021 13:49

@BridStar

Even Etsy is rarely handmade. A lot of sellers just buy in tat from Chinese wholesalers. Always double check the item isn't on AliExpress selling for 1 cent each.

There's a good chance the bloke you're talking to isn't some artisanal craftsman either. Just waits for the wholesaler to ship the next batch.

Please check- I bought a load of cheap rings (large OTT stones etc) for £1 each as Halloween fancy dress - I saw the same on Etsy for £15.99!
CheesyFootballsAreEvil · 14/12/2021 14:22

I found a lampshade on etsy for £20+ which was about £10 in argos

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