I would like to start by saying, it is with heavy heart that I give such a low rating to a local business. I rarely leave my home and have severe social anxiety, though when I interact with others, I try to be as pleasant and personable as possible. Prior to this visit, I went to Specialties to purchase acrylics to paint miniatures. I hadn’t decided on color scheme at the time and began picking up random paints, holding them next to one another to see if any combination would spark some inspiration. I understand that my appearance may raise some eyebrows because, idk, maybe I don’t look like your typical, local board game hobbyist. While looking at the paints, the owner and Brigette pulled up two chairs and sat on either side of me. Although they did not accuse me of attempting to steal, they did ask multiple questions, which felt more like an interrogation than genuine interest in the project I was working on. They were so close that if any of us extended our arms, we would have been touching. I felt so uncomfortable that, in a panic, I grabbed random paints in colors I didn’t need. For someone making $9.50/hour, that was quite a blow to my wallet. Between then and my most recent visit, a lot of time had passed. I came in with a game-plan. I had a general idea of what colors I was looking for. I was greeted by the owner upon entry and informed him I came to look at paints. The owner waited for me to arrive at the paints before following me back there, this time going behind the table that is located closer to their play area. It was a fast visit. I grabbed four bottles in less than two minutes and went to the register. I think I waited longer for him to return to the register than it took for me to pick out what I needed, possibly an attempt to not make it obvious he suspected me of nefarious intent. I can’t say for certain if that was the case during my most recent visit, or if it was lingering discomfort from the time he and Brigette surrounded me. Either way, I will not be returning. I’m a total amateur, but I put those...
Read moreI don't think I've ever had such a tremendously positive experience shopping anywhere else like I did the first time I walked into specialties. This store feels like a fantasy toystore , it's so colorful and inviting the moment you step foot inside. Within seconds of entering me and my wife had been greeted and asked if we needed help by someone who we didn't catch the name of but could only be described as the most jolly looking human being we've ever met. We perused the shop, but it being a bit closer to closing time we didn't want to take too long and we settled on a music box and some dice. The man at the register was quite friendly and answered any questions I had, and was very upfront about the mystery bags. We will absolutely be...
Read moreOrdered a toy for Christmas that I could not find anywhere else as it was backordered in most stores and the direct online store. After some research, I found this shop. I am in California and put in an online order on a wing and a prayer. Not only was I able to order without any hassle, but they shipped my order right away. I just got it (took just a few days) and it was neatly and carefully packed with a little booklet of their toys. Already saw some toys that would be perfect for the other kids on my list. Very happy with their service. Honestly, it is very refreshing to have something be so simple and hassle free this holiday season. 10/10...
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