Comments regarding Sunset Valley Orchids

I found Sunset Valley Orchids at a Home & Garden Show at South Coast Plaza in Santa Ana, CA. I was looking all over the show for Cypripedium, Lady Slipper Orchids. Sunset Valley Orchids turned out to have exactly the plant that I wanted - One that was tall and had a combination of flowers that were blooming and buds that had yet to open up.

There were two people working the booth at the time. The gentleman that helped me, a slender fellow, was very animated and helpful. He was hell-bent on selling one of his orchids to me and went out of his way to my near discomfort to do so. I eventually purchased from him though.

Another gentleman that worked there was demeaning and made me feel completely insignificant as I perused his racks of plants. He was very very heavy set and drinking what looked to be a large mug of coffee. It didn't matter how long I lingered around his station because he never ever made any motion or effort to help me. We made eye contact a few times, but the customary, "Can I help you?" was never even uttered. It was as if he could care less that I would buy something from him or perhaps it was the way that I was dressed or the fact that I looked young, he figured I didn't have any money. He helped others that walked by and didn't spend nearly as much time looking at his plants but he chose not to help me. I don't know what his problem was but I near returned the plant I just bought from his company because I was put off my his rudeness and poor business etiquette.

Although my mom really enjoyed her early Mother's Day gift, if I ever see Sun Valley Orchids at a home & garden show again, I'll be very vigilant to see who is working as that will ultimately determine if I purchase. I know customers can be difficult or rambunctious, but if you are polite, there is not reason why you should be treated like garbage.