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1. SarahScoot
   Member Profile

   

   My husband and I purchased a Groupon last fall for Village Green Nursery. We're now in the process of buying a home - due to close in about three weeks - and were looking forward to finally putting it to use. But today we received an email that "due to unforeseen circumstances" our Groupon was being canceled and the purchase amount would be refunded. I'll try to get over to the nursery to check it out soon, but have homework and such preventing me from getting out tonight.
   So in the meantime: anyone know what the deal is? Are they closing? Financially suffering and unable to continue to honor these Groupons? I won't hold it against them by any means; just curious.

   Posted 10 months ago #         

2. WSB
   Member Profile

   

   Vera is pretty easy to reach. She's all over Facebook, has a blog, has a website - have you tried e-mailing her?

   http://www.villagegreenperennialnursery.com

   http://villagegreenperennials.blogspot.com/

   Posted 10 months ago #         

3. SarahScoot
   Member Profile

   

   Thanks, TR; I'll probably go ahead and contact her. I want to reiterate that this is absolutely not a rant or an attempt to solicit rants. I have never had reason to shop there, but have several friends who do and they absolutely love the nursery. And no harm, no foul for us; we'll get the purchase price refunded.

   Posted 10 months ago #         

4. Vera @ Village Green Nursery
   Member Profile

   Village Green Perennial Nursery

   our explanation for canceling…
   First, let me apologize. The Groupon seemed like a great idea…to bring in new customers-right?
   However, after selling over 400, and then looking at the financial breakdown, we have gone in the negative by 10k, and stand to LOOSE another 10k. Had I known that I could put a 'cap' on the sales- say like 100 total Groupons, it would have been manageable.
   Please know that you are being fully refunded your original purchase price. Your dollars spent here directly help us to stay in business, the Groupon would have run me out of business-completely.

   My goal has always been to provide an atmosphere that feels like you've "gone to the islands" or a vist to an "urban farm/farmette" offering organic edible plants, hardy perennials, classes/workshops, live music, as well as supporting small local growers, build community and encourage sustainable living. It really does take a Village.

   I do hope folks can understand.
   Sincerely,
   Vera

   Posted 10 months ago #         

5. anonyme
   Member Profile

   Vera, we understand COMPLETELY. It's hard keeping a small business afloat these days, and yours is a unique and special one. Hope to keep you in the community for a long time to come.

   Posted 10 months ago #         

6. sam-c
   Member Profile

   

   yeah- I heard an interesting story about business owners' experience with groupon/ living social, etc a few weeks ago: http://www.kuow.org/program.php?id=23711

   for some it works out great, and for others, it's bad for business. it sounds like they are supposed to help you figure out the best way to offer a deal. I'm sure it's tough for a business owner, especially these days, to figure out the best way to take advantage of these sites.

   Posted 10 months ago #         

7. jwws
   Member Profile

   

   Vera rocks! And VGPN is a hidden gem. Stop by and visit if you have never been. Support our local small businesses!!

   Posted 10 months ago #         

8. Bonnie
   Member Profile

   Vera, I didn't buy the Groupon but I have read so many other stories about businesses struggling after Groupons. I came across this article a few weeks ago that was very interesting. http://posiescafe.com/wp/?p=316

   Posted 10 months ago #         

9. SpeakLoud
   Member Profile

   I am happy to pay full price at VGN-it's like going on a mini vacation-I can wander for hours and they are always so helpful. Coupons are good for grocery stores-good small businesses deserve the full $$$$$

   Posted 10 months ago #         

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