12/22/06

Cool merchandise; Poor customer service

by kay_bird

The shop is beautiful and they have a nice range of merchandise that is very unique to Kansas City. However, my first visit to Aesthetica was likely my last due to the hassles I encountered. I purchased a beautiful, silk fabric covered photo album and a small stocking stuffer. It was near closing time, so I left them to be wrapped and to pick up the next day. The next day...not ready, so I came back after lunch. (Mind you, parking is no picnic in this neighborhood.) They were nicely wrapped, but in a horrendus gray color (for Christmas!!). I didn't say anything, but planned to re-wrap them at home. Then, to my disbelief, I was told that there was a $10 charge for the wrap, which I wasn't told at the time of purchase. I received a lame apology, paid for the wrap and didn't complain. I opened the album to re-wrap it...more horror...they had taken it out of the nice sturdy gift box it came with and put it in a cheap, tacky, white shirt box, stuffed with tissue. Overall, my shopping experience did not reflect the image this shop portrays...a huge disappointment! I hate to say it, as I'm a champion of the local retailer, but with the internet, who needs these hassles?

07/16/06

Unique shopping spot

by 043063me

Through an Ohio magazine article, an Atlanta girl found this wonderful K.C. shopping spot in a neat old warehouse part of town & I'll be back on each visit. I thought the gifts & decor items unique & wonderful- stylish & whimsical. James, the owner, & Do Hi (spelling?), the salesperson, made the experience so fun that my sister- a designer, & I returned two days in a row, and it takes a lot to impress her! From stainless steel cabinets, wine racks & beautiful glass vases to cool magnetic jewelry, this place has something for everyone, and at reasonable prices. I recommend browsing then popping into next door's gorgeous Asian furniture store followed by a cuppa Joe from the cute corner coffee place. Then, back to Aesthtica to immerse yourself in chic and to chat with the very nice folks who run the place.

• Pros: Variety, Uniqueness, People
• Cons: A little difficult to find