In many ways, the work of a critic is easy. We risk very little, yet enjoy a position over those who offer up their work and their selves to our judgment. We thrive on negative criticism, which is fun to write and to read. But the bitter truth we critics must face, is that in the grand scheme of things, the average piece of junk is probably more meaningful than our criticism designating it so. But there are times when a critic truly risks something, and that is in the discovery and defense of the new. The world is often unkind to new talent, new creations. The new needs friends. Last night, I experienced something new: an extraordinary experience from a singularly unexpected source. To say that both the experience and its maker have challenged my preconceptions about fine retailing is a gross understatement. They have rocked me to my core. In the past, I have made no secret of my disdain for Mike’s famous motto, "Anyone can retail." But I realize, only now do I truly understand what he meant. Not everyone can become a great artist; but a great artist can come from anywhere. It is difficult to imagine more humble origins than those of the genius’ now at Fifth Generation, who is, in this critic's opinion, nothing less than the finest store in Farmington. I will be returning to Fifth Generation soon,...
Read moreI have been here twice. The first time was to purchase a gift for an employee who just received a promotion. One of the owners was working this day and I received exceptional and exemplary customer service. She greeted me and everyone else who entered the store. She asked questions about what I was looking for and my budget- very helpful. Today’s experience was the complete opposite. The was another younger woman in there who helped me. She was not wearing a mask and was very snuffly. She blew her nose four times while I was there. Her runny nose could be the blame for my service today, who knows. She did not welcome me in, say hello or ask what I was looking for. I did all these things. When I cashed out I asked for a gift box and bag that I had received the last time I purchased a gift here. She made zero effort and said we don’t have any. At the end of the transaction there was zero gratitude for my choice to do business there. I left frustrated that I didn’t receive the same level of service as my...
Read moreI have shopped at Fifth Generations for several years whenever I visit my sister in Farmington. I mainly shop for jewelry and although I cannot buy any of the big pieces, I can pick out several smaller. There is such a great diversity of all the stones, silver and design. I have always been treated like I am someone special whenever I go in and the clerks make it such fun. Whenever I have looked for a particular item, I’ve always received the best help, and the clerks always tell me which item looks best without pushing me toward the more expensive item. I love going to Fifth Generation. It’s just a...
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