Xenos Candy N Gifts — Local services in Philadelphia

Similar to others, my family and I had the misfortunate to experience the store owner’s rudeness. Based on pictures from other reviews, I surmise that the lady we interacted with today was the store owner, Tina.

My husband and my two daughters (pre-teens, double digit ages, not toddlers) were out shopping for souvenirs, on the way, my children were finishing a cookie (each) they grabbed on the way. Given the new COVID variant on the rise, we have been wearing masks to go into indoor places. Just before walking into Xenos, my children stood outside to finish their cookies, so that they can put their masks back on properly before entering the store, since the store is an indoor space. When my younger daughter walked in, the lady immediately said no food. My husband and I both looked at her confused, because my daughter had her KN-95 mask over her nose and mouth, and it wasn’t possible that she was eating. I said to the lady: “she has a mask on, she can’t be eating right now”. Again, the lady repeated her point of “no food in here”. Then I also repeated that there was no way she could be eating, since her mask was on. Then the lady finally nodded. As my daughter takes a second step into the store, my daughter moved towards a trash can right inside the store to throw a tissue away (no more than one step from the entrance of the door; at no point had my daughter been able to interact with any merchandise), the lady at the store immediately told her that she must not use her trash can and rather instructed my daughter to leave the store, cross the street, and throw her tissue in the trash that is outside the Museum of American Revolution museum instead.

I have contemplated whether she was simply having a bad day, but upon reading the other one-star reviews, it is clear that the store owner is sensitive to food and drinks. I understand merchandise damage is detrimental to small businesses revenue, especially when no precautions by patrons are exercised. I have also read her responses to the other one-star reviews, quoting spilled drinks being an issue and specifically, Red Bull energy drinks. There were no drinks in this situation, Red Bull or otherwise; there was also no food. There were two children eager to take home some memories of Philadelphia, but were left confused why they were not welcomed into the store and were not allowed to throw a piece of trash away. It was clear that we were not welcomed the moment we sat foot...

My mother, my boyfriend and I came in for a Liberty Bell souvenir. They had a selection of different sizes and a display item for each of them, placed on top of each variation. We tested the display items to see what they sounded like, since obviously the size of the bell changed the quality of the sound.

The lady behind the till then called out to us and told us to stop testing them because they were "all the same." We gave in, and simply decided to get the one we thought we liked. Once we had decided, my boyfriend and I each took a new box from underneath the display item and looked inside to check that what we were buying was OK for quality and not chipped or missing any parts. When the lady saw this, she said in a very stern voice, "They are all the same. Stop opening every single box. They are all the same!"

They were not the same, as any six-year-old can tell you. We did not open all the boxes, only the ones we decided to buy as any CCTV footage (if there was one) can prove, and as any normal, discerning customer would. We will not tolerate being spoken to like that.

We put the boxes back on the shelves and politely told her we were taking our business elsewhere.

My mother wrote a review of the shop and the lady responded to that review, still insisting on her accusations, and I quote her words:

"For a one piece Liberty Bell souvenir, you and husband spent lots of time opening and checking so carefully for all boxes of 6 sizes Bell and still can’t decide. This is a souvenir, not a Museum item, which cost lots of money."

Kudos to them for noting that we did it "so carefully." I would in turn argue that they should in fact call themselves a museum if they didn't allow anyone to touch their items. Put all of them in their boxes, tape them shut, lock them up in a glass case and stop calling themselves a shop.

Being situated in a city that celebrates American freedom, this establishment is run by a despot. Sure you can probably get what you're looking for (as long as it doesn't ring), but I would strongly advise not to support such people.

(Look out for a response to this review. Should be...

I had the most wonderful experience at Xenos Candy N Gifts, all thanks to the amazing owner, Tina. From the moment I walked into her store, I was greeted with warmth and kindness that instantly made me feel at home. Tina's friendly demeanor and genuine smile were truly heartwarming, and her hospitality was beyond compare.

During my visit, I happened to be suffering from an allergy attack, and Tina's thoughtfulness was on full display. Without hesitation, she offered me a soothing cough drop, which was a small gesture but meant so much in that moment. It's rare to find such compassion and care in a business owner, and Tina exceeded all expectations.

Not only was Tina incredibly sweet and accommodating, but she also went above and beyond to make our visit memorable. She took the time to inquire about our trip and upon learning that we were visiting from out of town, she graciously offered to be our personal tour guide. Tina provided us with a map and shared the most popular tourist spots in the area, along with safe routes to take. This personal touch made a world of difference in our experience as visitors, and we felt like we were being guided by a local friend rather than a stranger.

Throughout our time in her store, Tina's passion for her business and her community was evident. Her knowledge about the products she offers and her love for the area shone through in every interaction. It's rare to find someone so invested in their store and genuinely interested in making their customers' experience special.

I can't recommend Tina and her wonderful shop enough. If you find yourself in town, Xenos Candy N Gifts is an absolute must-visit, not just for the variety and selection of gifts but also for the heartwarming experience that Tina creates for everyone who walks through her door.

I am already looking forward to my next visit to town, and without a doubt, we will definitely be back to see her again. Thank you, Tina, for making our visit so memorable and for being a shining example of what a truly wonderful business owner should be. You have a...