Since I have started caring more about the quality of my clothing, I've started to value the quality of the store. When a salesperson comes around the corner to hand me my shopping bag, it may seem like a small gesture, but I am pleasantly surprised and slightly caught off guard. Nordstrom has managed to set themselves apart from the dozens of similar companies by adding these little touches that result in a big impact and a smile on my face. There is a reason why Nordstrom has such a strong and loyal following -- well there are several reasons, but I narrowed it down to eight.
1. Open return policy
Any customer can fearlessly tackle the dreadful process of returns with Nordstrom's "fair and reasonable" policy. Their policy states that no policy is actually in place, but each customer is case by case. I once dropped my bronzer on the ground and the compact screw came out (classic me), so I went in and asked if they could tighten it up. I explained what happened to the fabulous women at the Bobbi Brown counter. They responded with an unnecessary apology and a brand new compact, free of charge. No questions asked. In fact, they even complimented my skin tone as they wrapped it up. Countless stories far more generous than my little make-up compact exist as Nordstrom continues to excel in customer service practices.
2. Nordstrom Cafe + Ebar
Nothing is worse than shopping while hangry. Not only are these lovely sites inside the store, but they offer an extensive and exquisite menu. These sweet spots give you dozens of reasons to stay for breakfast, lunch, and dinner...nothing short of a fantastic business strategy.
3. Sales
Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale is unique and unmatched compared to similar stores. The store chooses several items each year, some exclusively designed for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, that are dramatically marked down from the regular price point (hello, Frye boots for $200). Something else to note: If you purchase an item a few days or even weeks before the sale, they will reimburse you for the difference. P.S., friend to a friend, the sale starts July 22nd.
4. Personal stylists
Thank God for Jessica in the Junior's Department who rescued my wardrobe from ages 14-18. No extra costs or appointments are necessary to take advantage of this amazing perk. Of course, it might help to call ahead to be sure you'll have plenty of time with your favorite fashionable friend.
5. Free shipping
No matter what. Shipping for a $3.99 pair of underwear you bought on sale? Free. This goes both ways -- returns are free of charge. So go ahead and add that extra item, because they are actually saving you money, right?
6. Price matching
Often times, prices are already matched on the website so it's really up to the customer to take advantage of this in stores. Bring in a coupon or ad from another store and Nordstrom will price match the item.
7. Amazing social media
The company has 700k followers on Twitter, yet, they reply to almost every tweet a customer tags them in, good or bad. They've managed to make my day once or twice when they respond to my tweets with witty and well thought out responses. Additionally, Nordstrom's Instagram is clean and extremely aesthetically pleasing to look at, I would highly recommend throwing them a follow for a fresh burst of fashion on your newsfeed.
8. Customer service
The absolute number one reason why I prefer Nordstrom over other department stores. If you couldn't tell from the numerous examples above, they have exceptional customer service. I once called their customer service line in a panic because I had ordered the wrong color sweater for my boyfriend's birthday gift, and the woman on the other end proceeded to overnight the new sweater (free of charge, of course) and ask how my summer was. I almost cried tears of joy, after tweeting about it of course.
