Barry's Hallmark Shop — Local services in Wallingford

Went in this morning to receive a refund for about 15 cards I purchased about 5 days before my husband passed, he was sick and was never able to fill them out for our 9 year old son like we had planned. Barbara was the one who greeted me, as I told her the basis of my return, she snapped back with, “you’ll have to come back when there is a manager in the store.” NOT one ounce of sympathy was displayed. No I’m sorry for your loss, just a stone cold face advising she couldn’t help me because the manager was not there. My husband died at the age of 43 on August 10th 2023 and this was the first day I felt brave enough to go out by myself. I have felt so awful, I got upset and asked her to call her manager, whom was worse than Barbara, again ZERO empathy or sympathy, her name was Evelyn and she refused to give me the corporate number or her boss’ name. But said to get me out of the store and to stop making a scene because there were other customers, so they gave me a store credit, that I have to use specifically at Barry’s. I’m disgusted to say the least, and these two people were well...

I’ve been a long time loyal member of Barry’s Hallmark (specifically Southington) but was close to Wallingford and decided on this location to pick up grad cards tonight but wish I hadn’t! The associate rudely exclaimed “we’re closing in 15 minutes” before I was even all the way in the store and I politely said oh wow is it already 7:15 and she said no it’s 6:45 and we close at 7! I told her I had checked earlier before I had even come in and Google had the closing time at 7:30. She was dismissive and said well that’s not right and hadn’t been for a very long time! I quickly went about finding my cards and could not wait to leave! Nice cards are expensive and I still like to buy them even though I can go to BJ’s and get them for a couple dollars. I’m pretty sure I’ll get artsy next time and make special...

So disappointed. Two different people could not answer two simple process questions. Told me to call hallmark.com (even though one of the questions was about their inventory. ) Due to covid we need to use curbside pickup. I ordered onlinbe and picked up curbside. On returning home and opening the bag part of the order was missing. I called to inquire. I spoke to two different people and neither one could answer the two basic process questions. I asked to speak to the manager I was told she hadn't been in in a while. I asked to speak to the assistant manager and was told there was none. In awe how unknowledgeable and how poor the customer service. Although I believe in supporting local unfortunately I will not support this stop...