So, we needed a new kitchen table and I knew exactly what I wanted — small, square and made of oak. Not pine, not ash, oak. Having been to every furniture shop I could think of, I went into Alexander’s not really expecting to find what I wanted. Or anything interesting really. I was wrong. Once inside the door, you’re in a huge show room of classic, contemporary and antique furniture, pictures, paintings and home stuff like artificial flowers. I wanted to buy one of the beautiful glass bowls of artificial roses but the husband put his foot down as it was £89. Miser. So we looked at the lovely cream painted furniture and were tempted, but it wasn’t oak. The pine tables were nice too, but, well you know what I wanted. And then there it was, the perfect table. Small, square and made of oak and a not too painful £230. But was I satisfied. Heck, no. I had noticed that many of the items roundabout were reduced but not ‘my’ table. Hmmm. We’ll see about that. For the first time ever, I was bold enough to ask for a discount. And I got it. £20 off the marked price. Result. The gentleman who looked after us was great — friendly and helpful, even helping the husband get the table into the car. All in all, a great shopping experience.