A Mano Galleries — Attraction in Lambertville

I've stopped by this place pretty much every time I've visited Lambertville; probably about once or twice a year. It's an amazing collection of unique and beautiful gifts, home furnishings, and decor made by talented artists and artisans. I love showing the store to friends.

Unfortunately, the last time I was there, the staff was surprisingly rude and in my face about having my phone out while I was in the store. I took a picture of a piece, and they asked me not to take pictures, which was no problem. They don't want their artists' stuff getting copied (though social media is good advertising). I stopped taking pictures, having not realized there were signs posted asking customers not to. I was only taking the pictures for my own enjoyment anyway, but I made a mental note not to let them get into social media.

Later, I was standing on line to make a purchase of some of their gag gifts while checking the reviews and prices on them online. I'm happy to pay a little extra for the brick and mortar of a store, but I also like to make sure a store's not doubling or tripling prices. (To be clear, their prices were very similar to online for the non-artist-made, branded gifts they carry.) I dream of being able to purchase some of their art, and hoped to when I could afford it, but let's face it, I've got mountains of student debt to work through before I can afford a $135 art piece to hang. I'm broke. If I can buy a gift for $10 online when it's $30 in the store, I'm gonna do it... I'm still in the "guess I'm eating ramen this week" phase of post-college life. I also always check reviews before making a purchase. I want to give a gift that's not going to fall apart in a month.

Anyway, the store clerk told me, "If you're going to check prices on our stuff online, do it outside. Don't insult us." (Remember, I was standing in line in front of the counter, about to BUY the items I was looking up.) She couldn't have known what I was looking at on my phone from where she was standing, but I didn't lie - she was right. In a friendly way, I told them the truth - I like to make sure a store's not charging an exorbitant amount for an item before purchasing it. I said that some stores do that. She responded with something similar to the first comment, basically saying to take it outside and that I was "insulting" them. At this point I had my items on the counter. Let's be clear. I had items on the counter to purchase, and she was telling me to go outside. She said something about being insulted one more time, and I said, "You know what? I'm good. Thanks." And left without making the purchase. I ended up buying a different gift for my sister later that day, elsewhere.

If the store has a policy on this, they need to post it on their door. It's not uncommon to check reviews and prices online. I'm a frugal and careful buyer. Frankly, though, the woman couldn't have known what I was doing. To make the comment and immediately tell me to leave the store was so rude and strange when I was waiting to make a purchase that I couldn't fathom giving them my business after that. I love the store but am probably not going to go back there. Other places across the bridge in New Hope sell some similar stuff with friendlier staff.

TL;DR: Beautiful gallery, great collection, rude staff. Don't use your phone...

Not only does the staff follow you making you feel pretty uncomfortable, they’re also unrelenting in pushing their seemingly OVER priced products. (Amongst other items, I also purchased a wooden pie server, only to find it in another store $8 cheaper.) Once you purchase, no refunds are given. Overall, it’s been uncomfortable every time we gave it another try.

I am responding to the owner’s reply. I appreciate your input to my post. I wouldn’t have reviewed you to begin with if I was given full refund on my initial purchase. I was told at the time that it’s store policy to credit only with store credit. Feeling followed and overly attended to happened almost always previously to my last visit. I’ve been visiting your store for years. I’m just saying I don’t enjoy that uncomfortableness. The exact pie server for 8 less is at the Frenchtown Bookstore. We used it already so I’m not returning it. I used it bc until your response, I was told I can only get store credit. I’m over explaining so it’s clear that I’m not just unnecessarily complaining. But I appreciate you’re offer to satisfy a customer. Hence I moved...

Welcome to A Mano Galleries, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Lambertville! This cozy little gallery offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the town, and is a perfect destination for art lovers seeking a more intimate, personal experience.⁠ ⁠ The moment you step inside A Mano Galleries, you are transported into a world of beauty and creativity. The gallery is filled with a carefully curated collection of stunning contemporary art pieces, featuring works by both established and up-and-coming artists from around the world.⁠ ⁠ One of the things that sets A Mano Galleries apart is their commitment to showcasing a diverse range of styles and mediums. Whether you're looking for something bold and colorful, or something subtle and understated, there is something here to suit every taste.⁠ ⁠ If you're looking for a unique, inspiring, and art experience, this shop is not to...