membership fees are a total rip-off, almost everything is out-of-stock! This site charges an annual membership fee for access, but gives you those fees back in the form of monthly credits to use towards purchases. If you're making purchases monthly, it seems like a great bargain. However, almost everything is out of stock, so finding something to purchase is nearly impossible. Then, ontop of that, shipping charges are insane (lowest rate is $22), but there is free shipping for orders over $75. Again, ok, that's not so bad.... BUT if any item is on sale in your order (even if there are regular priced items ALSO in the order), the monthly credits cannot be applied, because it's considered a stacking discount. The only way to cure that issue would be to make TWO orders: one with no discounted items, so that the credits can be applied, and one with all the discounted or on-sale items. However, the credits per month are only $15, but shipping is $22. So that means, the $15 credit is USELESS, and is a wash for shipping charges, unless you spend at least $150 ($75 per order). The site is absolute garbage and I will not be renewing after my annual membership expires.

Shipping times are crazy long Shipping times are crazy long. I decided to cancel my multiple orders and they said I would receive a refund in 5-7 Business Days however after two follow up emails they still have not cancelled or refunded my orders. Will be submitting a claim with my credit card company now.

Tasty with a side of poor communication The products themselves were very tasty. However, there was about a few weeks delay in shipping with no email or notification sent out to customers. I emailed them at which point they let me know of a shortage in dry ice. The product was shipped the following week.

Love my Alpaca slippers I received my order a little later than I expected. Though, this happens with other companies too. My Alpaca slippers are the best, my wife and I are keeping our feet warm and cozy. These were replacement my wife bought elsewhere years ago. These are a much higher quality product for a lower price. yay!

Long wait for product, inferior product - but satisfactory outcome Long wait for delivery - chair was an inferior product, but I am very pleased to say that Eric N at The Essential was very accommodating and helpful and gave us a full refund. They will also review the product before sending more out.