Living close to the Woodburn Company Stores, I’m spoiled when it comes to shopping for stylish brands on a budget. So, on a recent family vacation to France, let’s just say I was a bit intimidated walking into a Parisian boutique.
Like any good American traveler, I reached for my Rick Steve’s travel guide and flipped open the page titled “French Etiquette.” Here’s what Rick advised:
“Before you enter a Parisian store, remember the following points:
- The customer is not always right. In fact, figure the clerk is doing you a favor by waiting on you.
- It’s not normal for the customer to handle clothing. Ask first.
- Forget returns (and don’t count on exchanges).”
What? Don’t touch the clothes; I’m doing them a favor by shopping in their store? This mindset blew me away, coming from the U.S. where companies like Nordstrom and Zappos were built on the principle of customer service.
Needless to say I didn’t purchase much clothing in Paris. I did, however, find a wonderful boutique in the small town of Gordes where the “Parisian” shopping guidelines must not apply. With an Oregon winter ahead of me, I fell in love with this warm grey coat and its fun ruffle neck-line and a few colorful scarves. And, because I’m an optimist and know beautiful sunshine is just around the corner, I picked a pretty silk tank.
My wallet came home a little lighter, but my wardrobe full of charm.
Contributing Blogger: Linda Collier
Linda recently traveled to France with her husband and 2 year old son (now that takes courage!) to explore the countryside, taste regional cuisine and observe the “fashionable French.” When not traveling across the globe, you can likely find this bargain hunter wandering the covered walkways of Woodburn Company Stores.
