The Merchant — Local services in Atlanta

This is a beautiful store with a great selection, but unfortunately my recent experience there will keep me from ever returning. Myself and two friends entered the store to browse and look for Christmas gifts for family. We are all young professional women and carry ourselves with respect and kindness. Upon entering the store, the woman working did not greet or acknowledge us in any way. A few minutes into browsing around, it became very clear that she was suspicious of us as she continually followed us around the store while trying to act like she was checking on things. We did nothing in our behavior to give the impression we would have stolen/broken anything or caused any trouble. It was extremely, extremely obvious she was doing and it made our experience uncomfortable and annoying to deal with. If this is how she handled three white women, I cannot even imagine what would happen if a person of color were shopping with her working in the store. Really disappointing as this is a really nice shop, but I will not...

So very familiar. A lovely store window with no necessities, rarities or personal charm. If only the staff had some basic training. Three listless uninspired employees shuffling around you. Want some engagement and dedicated patrons? Try this: “Hey Y’all, welcome to The Merchant, may I help you find anything?” Or “Welcome, glad you are here, can I be of help?” So basic. No exclusives in this shop, so, think of this as an idea gallery, and get the same items from Same Day Amazon or at Home Goods for 38% less. Blink....

This quirky little shop next to Krog Street Market stocks a bit of everything, and it’s certainly entertaining to browse. Unfortunately, the prices feel steep for such basic knick‑knacks, so it’s hard to justify splurging. The staff can be hit‑or‑miss too—some encounters were fine, but I’ve also run into indifferent or brusque clerks. Overall, it’s a fun novelty stop, but don’t expect bargains or...