The Mercantile by Miller — Local services in Birmingham

I’ve shopped at The Mercantile many times over the years — it’s always been a favorite place for me and my daughter to browse and buy gifts. Unfortunately, after today, I’m not sure I’ll ever step foot in there again.

While we were shopping, my 3-year-old daughter accidentally knocked a small cross off a lower shelf and it broke. I immediately picked up the pieces and brought them to the front counter to let the employees know. They were busy with other customers, so I set it down and continued to shop. I ended up on the phone with my mom, got sidetracked, and completely forgot about the broken item. (My mom, who I was speaking with at the time, witnessed the entire situation.)

As my daughter and I were getting into the car, a taller woman with long black hair came out of the store and shouted out to me in front of everyone in the parking lot, asking if I was coming back to pay for the cross. She said she owned a small business there. I was shocked and humiliated to be treated that way. When I went back inside, she and another employee named Trisha — a shorter blonde woman who works at the front desk often — told me they “could never in their hearts break something and not pay for it” and that if I “felt good about it in my heart” I didn’t have to. Their tone was incredibly condescending. Trisha even said she wasn’t going to let me pay since I had expressed disbelief at how they were speaking to me, while the other woman said she would let me pay.

I paid for the $16 cross, but I left shaking and in tears. I understand The Mercantile hosts small businesses (as a consignment store), and I am happy to pay for something my child accidentally breaks — that’s why I brought it to the counter in the first place. But following a customer outside and yelling across the parking lot is unacceptable.

First of all, that decision should have been up to me — not demanded of me. I should not have been shamed in public by your employees, especially with my child standing right there. I am not their child, and I should not be scolded on what I “should” do by your employees.

I also frequent Greystone Antiques, and a few years ago I witnessed something get broken by a customer there. The staff handled it with kindness and grace — exactly how customer service should be. My sister worked in customer service for 12 years, and she said this way of treating a customer would never happen or be accepted at a company level or in any business with sound values.

That being said, I am sorry I got distracted after a while and didn’t go back to the front desk — but this should never have happened. It was disrespectful, shocking, and truly the worst shopping experience I’ve ever had. I’ve often shopped at The Mercantile over the years, and I was born and raised here, now raising my family just five minutes from the store.

Accidents happen — especially with kids. But the way I was spoken to made it clear: children are not welcome, and if an accident happens, I’d better pay for it — otherwise, according to their employees, my “heart isn’t in the right place.” That is not how customers deserve to be treated. I’ll make sure to let all my friends know how your employees...

We came because we enjoy Simply Infused. Why did I leave a one star? It wasn't Simply Infused's fault, at all. She is always awesome and kind.

My new wife and I were ignored for a bit at the check out, and got quite a few glares. It was almost like our debit cards weren't good enough. I couldn't understand why. They seemed unhappy that my wife didn't want to share her email too, and I almost had to speak up.

The area seems upscale, which we have no problem with. However, we were dressed somewhat plain today. Inexpensive. I suspect someone didn't approve.

The ladies at the counter where we paid and went on our way seemed to be offended, yet we have never met them. First time here... When my wife went back in, they just kinda stared at me as I waited outside.

Beautiful store, and products...overshadowed by a bad attitude at the end. I am not particularly wealthy, but I know that supporting small businesses keeps this country great.... So I do... In a world where Amazon is still cheaper...

My message as a 15 year employee of the third largest BPO company on the planet... Is don't reduce your customer experience below that of an ornery cashier at a dollar menu fast food restaurant....

I ask, what if Jesus Christ walked in, as he was a plain, unremarkably dressed guy, the Bible tells us... and not of particularly high means as a carpenter.... Yet somehow, if you checked the Lord's checking account balance, some eyes would be as big as basketballs...

Someone thought Santa Claus...

Beautiful business and very well designed decor. However, let me be very clear. I walked downstairs and upstairs Not 1 person greeted me, the two guys turned their heads if i looked like I wanted to ask a question. Everyone who didn't look like me were greeted with a kind hello. I saw the Junior League shopping/spend flyer on the wall. As a previous very active Bham member , I 'm disappointed. I drove from Spanish Fort to visit this store and 1 other. And my limit for Christmas would have been a very very nice sale. Who runs this store, if you are not inclusive or cater to a certain demogra, hic why are you open to the public. Very...