We ordered Custom Sergio Grasso boots in June as our daughters graduation gift. We were measured by the manager and told they take 2-3 months. We discussed the try on process and that I may need to send them to Kentucky and back to ensure proper fit etc, All approved, because our daughter is headed to study Equine Management at University of Kentucky.
I called in August to check progress, and didn't get a call back. I phoned again, and was told they didn't have my number to call me back, but they were in process. It's a special order for $1400 dollar boots. I assure you they had both my and my daughters' numbers. They indicated it would likely be another month.
I phoned in the 3rd week of September for an update. I was headed to parents weekend in October, and figured I could take them with. My number was taken for the manager because they couldn't find my order. (Just assumed this was a young worker who didn't know). No call back. I called again 3 days later, and was told the manager would call me back. (Concerning)
I received a call stating that Cori's boots were being made but that would be delayed because "in Italy they take a 1 month long Summer Holiday. I was also told in detail that once they are put together , they have to sit on the form for about 1-2 months for the leather to shape and dry and that's where her's were. Ok, it's Italy.....it's possible, no problem.
Here we are now in November. I called the store, left a message with Kelly, who said she would call me back because the manager knew all about this order.
No call back (this is now an official theme)
I left a second message, no call.......been busy with travel arrangements for the holiday's and figured I'd call in a few days.
It is now thanksgiving. Cori happened to call to check on her boots, and was told someone would call her tomorrow after they checked with the manager. I interrupted the phone call, asked to speak with the manager, and explained they needed to call me. They said ok. They would be calling their US Rep, as well as emailing the Italian maker, and would get back to us shortly. They also went out of their way to suggest a refund while we wait. (Everything didn't seem too fishy until then)
I get a call yesterday to tell me the following. The boots will not be made. It seems that the measurements being the same height as width are not allowing a proper fit for the ankle of the boot and thus will not be made. (you told me several times they were drying)
The manager went on to say that Sergio Grasso had already changed our boot type (no one asked us) to add an elastic backing so as to make it easier to zip and not have any problems at the ankle. She went on to say that the email she had received was kind of vague but that she knew they would not be made.
I asked how this was possible when the manager had previously informed me that they were "drying". She said, uh, I don't know. They must have been assuming".
She then informed me she had contacted another boot maker, Dehner, who "makes boots for all types of legs" and was refunding our money. She had sent the measurements to them for guidance and to see if they could be done.
In my shock and extreme upset I put her on hold to tell my daughter and husband. I told her said fine, get back to me.
I did call back to ask for my daughters measurements. Kelly took my email and assured me she'd send them right over. I have not received them.
Monday November 28th, I phoned to ask why the refund had not been applied, checking the credit card number etc. Kelly told me she would need to contact accounting, and call me back. I also asked about the other company Dehner and she said "oh yeah, I'm contacting them".
Guess what, No call back.
When I say down to pay bills on the 5th (yesterday) my credit of $1405.08 had been applied.
My REAL feelings are of stark sadness, betrayal, and extreme disappointment at the way we have been treated as people and customers.
To you, WE are just a sale, OOPS!
NO, the custom boots were the culmination of years of hard work by our daughter as her graduation present.
We aren't your typical customer, from a horse family. She isn't privileged enough to have grown up with horses or years of lessons. It is simply her passion.
So for you, Oops here's your money back.
For me, failed graduation gift, 6 months wasted, and still bare feet.
A simple refund doesn't begin to cover it.
Sincerely,
A Mom with a crying daughter and a refund of $1408 read more