Things Etc/ Windworks — Local services in Madeira Beach

I am a big proponent of supporting local, family owned businesses first, before large corporate department stores. I live by this rule. Today I visited Things etc. to make the exchange of a defective bracelet that I bought as a gift for someone two weeks ago. I presented the gift to a friend this week and unbeknownst to me, my friend showed me that the bracelet was defective and would not clasp. The bracelet kept falling off my friend. Luckily she found it on several occasions and came with me today to exchange it. The Things, etc. store owner announced to us today that she has a policy that states all sales are final and only exchanges will be allowed with proof of purchase and receipt. I opened my phone and displayed my credit card statement and the SPECIFIC credit card sales transaction receipt that I made for the bracelet, and several other items that I bought in her store two weeks ago. Not only did I prove and describe a strict type of loyalty in support of her revenue and livelihood, but I also happened to be adorning earrings and 3 rings that I purchased from her in the past. I have constantly towed friends, family and visiting tourists to her store for the past 11 years. I explained all of this to her but she refused to adjust HER OWN policy by exchanging one broken bracelet for one that was intact. I find this extremely disturbing. I think local residents should expect similar loyalty and support from local business as well. It’s not a one-way street where we support local business with no expectation of reciprocal respect and value. Loyalty has to work both ways. I will no longer frequent Things, etc. store and will make my purchases elsewhere in the future. She has far too much competition to make a stand like this over a $19 bracelet purchase. This smacks in the face of the thousands of dollars that I’ve spent in her store over the years. Very silly move...

Went in to get a forever bracelets with my friend, stood in line while the lady was doing two other people. Never said anything to us till it was our turn and she told us they weren’t doing anymore. She said she would be back tomorrow when they opened. We made sure to get up early before our flight to come home and when we got there the lady wasn’t suppose to be in. She could have made over $100 but instead couldn’t take the few minutes it takes to do them or take the time to let us know that she want doing anymore so we didn’t waste any time standing in line. I have family that come here every year and love coming to John Pass. It was great till I walked into this store. I won’t be back. This place doesn’t care about the customers clearly. Doesn’t take the time for their customers, no respect, and they lie. Good luck if you go...

Things Etc. has some of the best and kindest sales staff I have ever interacted with- and trust me i shop a lot of local places so this means a lot! the store name is a true description of the store, lots of things are indeed sold in here! with all of the product diversity one thing remains in common: amazing quality and amazing pricing!! two of my favorite jewelry brands are sold here- Gorjana & Charles Albert! i highly recommend others to shop here if they love great pieces and a friendly and warm place...