Michaels — Local services in Kenner

Drove from Baton Rouge, LA to Metairie, LA (1 hour 15 minutes one way) to attend a cookie decorating class offered by Michaels (i.e., Kim’s Cookie Decorating) at 8851 Veterans Avenue. The store is managed by Melissa. This was a class that was prepaid for granddaughter and I several weeks ago. Arrived 20 minutes before the 4:00 p.m. start time and informed by Melissa decorating classes were not held there. We should go to the 3526 Veterans location (20 minutes away). That location was not the appropriate location. However, staffers were kind enough to review class schedule on Michael’s website. Sent back to the first location where I was again told by Melissa there were no classes and if I had an issue to contact the corporate office “at the 1-800 number”. Even though Michael’s advertised the classes on their website, processed payment on their website and allowed the class to be conducted on their property, management declared no responsibility. As instructed, I called the 1-800 number while in the store. I was on the phone with a total of 3 Michael’s representatives for a total of 83 minutes 20 seconds. This first representative (Cara) tried to help. However, after 39 minutes we were disconnected. I was reconnected with Jessica (ext. 2327) and Lindsey (ext. 7115) who stated they were de-escalation specialist. Ultimately, we left the store without a refund or any other form of renumeration for this fiasco. Moreover, Jessica and Lindsey did not disconnect properly and I have 10 minutes of recorded conversation where Jessica, Lindsey and Melissa are on a three-way call making highly disparaging remarks, making very clear that although Michael’s may promote a customer satisfaction tenet; their employees clearly do not subscribe to this philosophy. When asked for contact information for regional manager was given the name Michael O’Neal (by Jessica) but corporate policy prohibited giving contact information. If I could give zero stars – I would. I would suggest that anyone considering attending a class here, particularly the cookie decorating class, not waste their valuable time and hard-earned money. The class will not be held, the store will not be able to assist, you will have to deal with incompetent and unprofessional staff representing the store and corporation; and will have wasted multiple hours out of your day for nothing. And let’s not forget -- you will have to contact your credit card company to file for a reversal of charge. TOTALLY NOT WORTH...

Kimberly the manager on duty was one of the finest retail managers I've encountered for far too long. A time. She assisted myself and the very kind woman behind the counter handling my particular return order. My needs were particularly challenging, I had to make returns for canvases, paints, and paintbrushes. She did all that she could that fell within The limitations of her corporate responsibilities. In other words, she exhibited unwavering professionalism; simultaneously representing her company while being an advocate for my needs. On top of all this; she runs quite a tight ship. With a team of very talented employees. When I arrived there was a line of customers that stretched 20 - 30 feet back towards the rear of the store. I was blown away at how quickly these customers were taking care of. It seems like within minutes I was one of the last individuals requiring attention from the staff. All in all I had an incredibly positive experience. And will continue to make my regular art supply purchases at this location...

Melissa was a huge help with a large balloon order for a 70th birthday dinner. She was very patient with me and ensured the arrangements would be exactly the way I want them. She allowed me to send photos to her as she would not be available the day of the pick up. She eased my anxiety by taking detailed notes, spending time with me discussing what I wanted, and consulting with Cherie, the manager that would be there the day of pick up. Cherie worked hard to get things the way I wanted them the day of pick up. She was also very patient and provided great customer. The arrangements were attached to the ballon weights I provided, just the way I wanted them. A few minor adjustments were made by another patient lady staff member whose name I did not get. I highly recommend this location for your...