I'm a Lush convert (Lush)

Member Name: jennikitten

Product:	Lush
Date:	18/01/09 (118 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Traditional feel, different approach

Disadvantages: Usually small and cramped

I went into my local Lush a couple of weeks ago to buy a friend's birthday present - she loves Lush, and more recently I've been getting into it too.

I dragged the boyfriend along as it's a mutual friend's birthday - needless to say he complained the whole time we were in there because he doesn't like shopping much anyway and he said the smell was giving him a headache (as it seems to do for quite a lot of people, but I've never had a problem).

It was quite empty for once, and so the staff members were able to give us quite a bit of attention and there was enough space to browse properly - I find that Lush shops are often very cramped and it's difficult not to block the products/see and smell the products because of this. I could always buy online once I know I like a product, but I like to see and touch and smell and try new things without being worried I'm going to waste my money because I actually don't like them. Things that people seem to love, like Snow Fairy, I dislike so I can't usually go off reviews unfortunately.

They do have great displays though, and the huge blocks of soaps always look pretty and well-laid out. I also like the signs everywhere that make the company in general seem friendly and a bit different. They also go for wooden floors and displays which contributes to the lovely traditional aspect of handmade products - don't ask me why, it just does!

I've never found it particularly complicated to use but there always seem to be lots of staff around asking if they can help which is useful. I think it might benefit from sets of scales by the unwrapped soaps so you can work out much things are with less fuss.

They also stock a good range of gift sets, and with their usual post-Christmas offer of spend £20 and get a gift box free, I managed to spend just over £20 on our friend and get a £14 gift box of stuff for myself. I'm so generous (!) We also got our friend's stuff gift wrapped, and this was done nicely and we could choose the colour of the paper and the bow. However, I would really expect a bit more for almost £3 - perhaps something glittery or twirly bits or a gift tag or something.

Overall, I would say go in during a quiet time - early in the morning, avoid weekend lunchtimes etc. because it's far better when you can browse at leisure without the hassle of other shoppers!

Summary: Give it a try