I collect antique books and prints, pleased with the quality and selection. The gentleman working was incredibly pleasant and helpful. After spending a few hundred dollars on prints, I asked the gentleman if I could use Google translate to see what types of flowers were in some floral prints as they were in a different language, understanding there is a no cell phone policy. Explained no photos would be taken, just hover over the wording and it translates. The woman rushed over, and despite the gentleman telling her I had asked and he said it was fine, she was incredibly rude. After rudely arguing with him in earshot, she left for 10 seconds then came back and said “you’re all done!” and shooed me away in front of a store full of people and my daughter. It was unnecessary and embarrassing for no reason. Would love to support a local store but will be buying my prints elsewhere and not recommending. Two stars were for the kind gentleman.
** UPDATE - the owner's response to the above review doesn't address her nasty attitude and clearly still shows her lack of understanding how tech like Google Translate works (again, NO PICTURES OR "SCANS" were taken). Had she taken a minute to look up how it works, she'd realize that in addition to looking rude, now she also looks ignorant. It's an antique print store- there's no reason to take pictures of pictures behind plastic wrapping. If people wanted knock-off antique prints, they could get them from anywhere on the web, or ask ChatGPT to make one to their specifications. People shopping at a store like this want the ACTUAL print, and the sooner she realizes that, the sooner she'll stop chasing customers away. No policies were loosened for me, the entire point of my review is that she wouldn't "loosen" the application of the policy even after being given explicit permission from the gentleman. Unless you are prepared to read the prints you offer in the language they're printed to your customers upon request, or print out the translation and put it with the picture (hint- probably using Google Translate ironically enough), then you should accomodate people who want to simply know what the print says. I told you, you could've watched over my shoulder to ensure no pictures were taken, but you'd rather come on here and die on the hill that all your customers who had unpleasant experiences are wrong.
Shame that you're so stuck in the past that you think business reviews are a fighting ground for your own ego and not an opportunity to market your shop and attract potential customers. Wouldn't expect someone who also doesn't understand technology to understand that, but it's sad that you would rather lose customers than just be decent. I hope you have the day...
Read moreAs a map collector and dues paying member of the NYC Map society, I was really excited to stumble upon such a well curated and organized map and print shop while visiting Newport. This shop has a wonderful collection that has clearly been assembled with both knowledge and care. However I was disappointed when my girlfriend and I were scolded for taking too long looking at one section in the back of the shop. I understand this is a place of business that has a need to keep space open for all its customers but this is an experience I’ve never had browsing at countless similar print shops. The shop was not too busy while we were there, and we were excited to come across an exquisite Abraham Ortelius map of west Asia, a map maker and region for which I have a particular affinity. Sure many items were out of our price range but we were hoping to look around and get a couple prints to support the shop. After speaking with the owner we felt unwelcome and uncomfortable, perhaps because we don’t look like the usual Newport set. Still a wonderful shop but maybe not a place for younger map lovers to browse without having clearly...
Read moreWhile buying on the internet is quite convenient, it can be stressful when you are purchasing antique lithographs. Seeing the condition and color are paramount to being sure you are satisfied. I didn't have the option to travel to MA, so I depended on Anne to be honest and helpful. Not to worry! She was all that and more! Over the course of a week+, she helped me narrow down dozens of choices by taking multiple photos, aiding me in the ultimate arrangement on my wall and giving suggestions for framing. This woman knows antique prints!! She has been in the business for years, learning from her own parents who are also in the business. She is kind, she is patient and she is ready and willing to answer any questions you have. She wants you to be happy. I received my prints yesterday and couldn't be happier with my choices or the service. Anne and her husband travel extensively to antique shows. This years virus has killed most of the planned shows. But trust me when I say, doing business with Anne by internet and phone are the next...
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