The Cauldron Black — Local services in Salem

I have attempted to contact this company on three separate occasions using two different methods in order to discuss the disappointing experience I had at their store location on October 29, 2024. Unfortunately, I did not receive a response, which has prompted me to write this review. While browsing the store, I came across a display case and noticed a charming goblet, which I picked up, causing water to accidentally spill from the goblet. An employee with distinctive big blonde hair hastily approached me, grabbed the goblet from my hand, and proceeded to reprimand me in a manner that was unbecoming and unprofessional. I must emphasize that I had not seen the sign on the front of the display case, which explicitly stated 'Do not touch.' As a 47-year-old adult, I can assure you that I would not have intentionally disregarded such a sign. I was on the side of the display. The employee's behavior was not only unacceptable but also made me feel belittled and disrespected. Furthermore, her subsequent comment about not pouring out the water of the spirits was not only unclear but also delivered in a condescending manner. A polite explanation and allowing me to apologize. would have been more appropriate. Instead, the employee continued to speak to me in a dismissive tone as I exited the store with my friends. It is worth noting that I had intended to make a purchase and have been a loyal customer in the past. Regrettably, this encounter has led me to reevaluate my patronage of this establishment. I will never ever return nor will my family, friends, any anyone that will listen to my experience. From reading the reviews it seems like they have hurt others. This experience ruined a part of my day this lady was so aggressive towards me I had force myself to control my anger towards her.

This place has terrible reviews it wild. I’m past years you’re followed around the store constantly and treated like a criminal. Please don’t go it’s not worth it. There are so many amazing shop owners in Salem that don’t have an attitude of entitlement. I am sorry to the spirit of the water I spilled I’m sad...

This place has horrific customer service. As stated in other reviews, they have very strict COVID guidelines which they state on their website, in confirmation emails, and in person when you arrive. I completely understand that. As such, I arrived in an N-95 mask and had my proof of vaccination ready. The woman working (I didn’t get her name) barked the COVID protocols at me in a threatening way as if I’d already broken all the rules. Someone showed up wanting to shop but didn’t have a mask, and she rudely informed them they didn’t have masks to hand out (I think if your rules are that strict, you should have masks available for customers and that there’s a kind way to say you don’t have masks, but I digress). I was late to my appointment, which I acknowledged. She asked the spiritual advisor if she’d still be able to see me and the answer was no. Fine, I understand. I asked if I could apply the payment to a rescheduled appointment and she also said no even though it doesn’t state this on their website or emails. I understand that as well - I know they’d planned for me to come, and it’s my fault I was late. But she was extremely rude and defensive in explaining this to me, passive aggressively stating she went above and beyond by asking the advisor if she could fit me in. I don’t think that’s above and beyond - I think any reasonable person working in customer service would see what they can do to accommodate customers and kindly and politely explain what is/isn’t possible without getting an attitude. Don’t just take my word for it - see the other reviews. I will say that Paige (one of the advisors) is absolutely WONDERFUL, I have seen her a few times, but I would recommend booking her through other means. I’m not sure what has happened at The Cauldron Black to make them so defensive with customers as if they’re expecting you to rip your mask off and throw a tantrum, but it’s insulting to be treated like an annoying burden instead of a...

I have visited this shop twice, and both times it has been a treat. My most recent visit was in a private shopping session I booked. I arrived early, and the clerk let me begin early. Since my first visit, their supply of books has grown, and I was delightfully surprised at the quality and quantity of medieval grimoires they carry. The clerk was friendly, helpful, and very accommodating. My only regret with my visit was that I had no way to bring more home with me, as much as I wanted to. I hope to visit again in the future.

Edited 4/23/24:

On April 1, 2024, I ordered a book online, and The Cauldron Black received the money. To date, the book has not shipped and is sitting there waiting to be shipped. After numerous calls with no movement, I don't even want the book any more. I just want my money back. I do not think this is an unreasonable expectation as the business has received my money, but the product I paid for is still sitting there.

It is a lovely place to shop in person, but I do not recommend online orders.

Final Update 4/26/2024

After being told that someone who could handle my request for refund would be this afternoon, I called multiple times within the given timeframe, and no one answered, right up to closing time. My review is down to one star. This is completely unacceptable. Two emails with no response, and having my inquiries kicked down the road for nearly a month is inexcusable.

I ordered this book from a seller on the the west coast after that seller closed on Monday, and it arrived today. No muss, no fuss, no excuses.

I enjoyed shopping at TCB when I was in town, but if this is how I’m going to be treated when I’m not there in person, I won’t be shopping there in person any more either. I will also be filing a complaint with the Better...