On my last day in New York the last time I was there, I had a chance to wander the streets at my leisure. After checking out Barney’s I walked up Madison Avenue just to see the sights, and lo and behold, I ended up finding the Penhaligon’s store! It was, without a doubt, the highlight of my weekend.
Buying perfume at a regular department store can be grossly overwhelming. There are so many choices, and too many people around waiting for you to make a decision. Sometimes, it seems that the worst thing that you can say is that you don’t like something after hearing about its royal origins or celebrity perfumer. Asking for a sample is almost out of the question.
That’s why Penhaligon’s has its loyal customers and stellar reputation. While I was in the store the phone was ringing off the hook with regular customers placing orders.
The woman who was managing the store asked me what scents I normally wore and allowed me to sample a few. Then she looked at me, adjusted her glasses, and said: “You look like a Violetta – lets try that on you.” It smelled amazing and was just what I was looking for.
I almost bought the bottle on the spot – and declared it was my favourite, but instead of pushing me to buy it, the woman at the Penhaligon’s store said: “I think I have a sample….” So then she handed me a few little vials, told me to try them, and then come back. She also reminded me that I could place my order over the phone and that they delivered.
Shopping at the Penhaligon’s store was a unique experience and one that I really enjoyed. Shopping at the store, you’re not at all overwhelmed by the choice, and you know that you’re a welcome customer there. You’ll also find something that you like and you might even become a regular.
