I was recently at the Chandler Teavana for a gift idea for my sister. The gal that helped me was friendly and initially asked me "how much are you looking to spend" - to which I replied "no more than $30" (though I was expecting 35ish with taxes).. she asked other types of questions to get a feel for what she could recommend as a 'gift'. She did well, except for the MINOR fact that everything she recommended was at least $10 over what I had told her was my budget. She kept saying "it's a bit more, but I'm sure she'll love it" to every recommendation... and I kept saying "got any thing else in my range?". I really wasn't necessarily trying to stick to $30.00 max, but once I started to see how she'd only recommend things above $30, I became more of a stickler and was resolute on not giving them any more than $30.00. When I finally chose the gift and wanted to add a bit of tea, I was hit with the "there's an oz minimum on the tea purchase" and we *highly* recommend (insert strong sales push here) the huge air-tight container... ugh.
This is not the first time, either. I have been here several times and most of the time it's been off-putting how pushy their employees are.. but I always walked out with something I loved, so I just brushed the annoyance aside.
They have a nice selection of teas.. a bit over-priced, but you're at the mall, so it's expected. Their tea-accessories are very nice and delicate.. and also pricey.. but if you're a tea snob, you're probably OK with the prices.
I would like to buy accessories without being pushed or hounded.. I'd like to buy tea in *whatever* quantity I wanted and not be hasseled that I should also include the air-tight container and honey wands to better experience the tea. Short story - great products, pricey, pushy sales staff. I am resolute on going in and NOT talking to their staff.. even if they make attempts... just say "I'm just browsing". I wonder how well that would work.