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Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 5,094
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

  I have bought so many items from Valerue over the years , and I love all of them ,but I am just noticing that so many of them are shipped in from China.

 

Was it always like that?

 

 

Where have I been all these yrs ????

Occasional Contributor
Posts: 14
Registered: ‎02-07-2016

Actually yes they have been shipped and made in China. Valerie actually addressed this in a Christmas in July special show she had with Mary Beth.  Her reasoning was because of the fine and prystine items and finishes they insist on China was the only place that could do it within a cost factor that could make the items affordable for the buyer. Hope that helps your decision making.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 12,702
Registered: ‎08-22-2013

If I am buying items made in China, it doesn't matter to me where it's shipped from. We can't be concerned that the product isn't made in the US or the product doesn't have USA hands on it in some way, if we choose to buy it in the first place. This may be more than you wanted to know, but I had to throw my opinion out there.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 20,019
Registered: ‎08-08-2010

It's been that way for just about everything except her fresh wreaths (and I believe her dried ones many years ago), for as long as I've been watching/buying, which is about 20 years now.

 

The thing about China made is that there is a small amount that is really great quality. But as time passes, and the economic and social landscapes change over there, they are paying more in production costs and the quality is suffering, as the vendors want a specific (translated 'cheaper') price point in which to keep the items selling.

 

So just like here, not everything from China is of the same quality. In general, the quality of MOST everything is declining in my opinion, regardless of where it is manufactured. And if it is still really good quality, the price reflects that heavily (which is ok with me, to get good stuff).

 

I have found a lot of Valerie's things are getting really poor in quality (especially lit and MG things). The components are falling out of them after just a year or two, timers fail, and so on. Not every piece, but more than I am happy with. 

 

I'm overloaded with home decor both seasonal and regular, so I'm being extremely picky now about what I buy, and haven't made a home decor purchase since before Christmas, nor do I intend to make any for quite some time. 

 

Quality and price are part of that decision.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 19,658
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

I just wish she didn't throw a handful of glitter all over everything.

 

It's dangerous, both to humans and the environment.

 

From eye injuries (including eye loss) to 'glitter lung' from inhaling it, to what it's doing to our oceans and wildlife.

 

https://nypost.com/2017/11/29/environmental-scientists-call-glitter-a-global-hazard/

You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.
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Honored Contributor
Posts: 9,312
Registered: ‎05-15-2014

To me I think it is important that products are made here at home.  I too find the quality lacking in items coming from overseas.  Many times now that helps me to decide whether to purchase or not.  To each his own.

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 5,094
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

@Mominohio

 

 I guess that is why I am beginning to notice lately. I agree the quality of her products has gone down a lot!  Sadly Smiley Sad

Valued Contributor
Posts: 676
Registered: ‎03-29-2010

In theory, I agree with you Linda, and I will always buy American if I can.  However so many things are made in Vietnam, China etc  then I would be very limited.  I don't buy a lot from Valerie since we down sized since we don't have room for a lot of decorations.  However what I buy from her I love. Recently purchaed her set of 3 eggs on timers which I can't wait to put out

Also love her spheres

Honored Contributor
Posts: 12,711
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Valeries items

[ Edited ]

@MalteseMomma

 

unfortunately, I think most things we buy are imported (out sourced) and yes, the only things I recall from VPH from many years ago was her candles.  I think they were from Hannah's (for some reason this name comes to mind).  I think if you are looking for made in USA you may have to find in a specialty shop.

 

as for her things, the price points have gone up substantially as her line has grown.  I will buy when I know I won't find elsewhere.

 

I was in Hobby Lobby (china made also) and they have great Easter/Spring decor. In fact, they had foil egg garlands & candlerings.  I think it's 40% off but when you see something you need to buy it because next time it's gone!

 

We also have Old Time Pottery where they have a abundance of Easter bunnies, tablecloths, serving pieces, etc. and most are under $15!  A big selection of foil bunnies.

 

And her things are always beautiful!

Respected Contributor
Posts: 2,331
Registered: ‎04-02-2015

If I like something I don't care where its made. I have about 2000 Boyds Bears in my collection,from China and they are so beautifully made, I adore them.  I find alot of Valeries things just adorable, been buying her things for as long as she's been on. Good luck with finding anything as cute as she has, made in America. I love my country, but we don't make things like that , or I've never seen them.