Frequently Asked Questions |
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The Purple Squirrel
Custom Trees
Your Tree |
Etsy Shipping About The Website |
While growing up, my mother wanted my sister and I to embrace our creativity. This principal often surfaced while coloring. The instance that stuck with me over the years was a picture of ,yes, a squirrel. She said it didn't need to be brown just because "it's supposed to be". I was encouraged to color the squirrel whatever color I wanted. I chose purple. As a result, when my mother and I decided to make our hobby into a business we decided on The Purple Squirrel. Perfect!
The Purple Squirrel is a Mother-Daughter business team. We are working on bringing my sister, Delainie, into the business also. We are one big creatively happy family.
Ordering a custom tree is easy! Simply complete our Custom Tree Order Form. To make the form easier to use, only the most common options are listed. If you would like a different stone, wire, special base, etc. please feel welcome to contact us. You may also include specific information in the "other" or "special request" sections.
No, The Purple Squirrel is happy to create a custom tree for you. Depending on stone and base choices this may raise or lower the price when compared to trees of similar size. Tree prices are determined by: cost of materials, time to complete, availability of specific materials, etc.
Due to the nature of handmade items, no two trees are exactly alike. If you see a tree that has already been sold please use our Custom Tree Order Form to request a similar design. Please reference which tree caught your eye in the "special request" section. We will do our best to provide a similar tree for you.
Turnaround time for creation and listing is currently 2-3 weeks depending on complexity and communication. Custom orders do take priority over general stock. We will contact you in the manner specified as soon as the tree is finished. Shipments are sent Monday thru Saturday, after payment is received. Please let us know if you have any specific time deadlines.
Caring for your tree is simple. Unless otherwise stated, your tree is completely waterproof! If it needs a dusting, simply rinse it (the sprayer on the sink works great) and allow it to air dry. That is all the watering your tree will ever need to bring you years of happiness.
To date, The Purple Squirrel has a perfect customer satisfaction rating. If you are ever unhappy with your purchase please contact us and we will work with you to make it right. We stand behind our trees and strive for perfection with every transaction.
Etsy is a website designed to sell handmade goods. You can also purchase vintage items and supplies to make your own projects. There are more than 100,000 sellers on Etsy! View the full Etsy site at: www.etsy.com.
The Purple Squirrel currently uses Etsy for active listings and purchases. This is because it is very economical and allows us access to the forums, feedback, view counters, and the rest of the Etsy community.
Etsy (like many other online shopping communities) is supported by feedback. In order to properly track feedback it needs to be linked to a user name. It's quick and easy to set up an Etsy account. It also opens new lines of communication using Etsy conversations and forums.
Shipping charges are calculated using actual USPS costs. Prices can vary due to package size, weight, and destination. We always try to use the most cost effective shipping method available. If you are undercharged for shipping The Purple Squirrel will absorb the cost. If you are overcharged, The Purple Squirrel will contact you and refund the charge via Paypal.
| Weight (Not Over) |
Shipping Method | Cost Per Box |
Speed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Ounces | First-Class USPS | $1.81 | 1-3 Days | |
| 9 Ounces | First-Class USPS | $2.49 | 1-3 Days | |
| 13 Ounces | First-Class USPS | $3.17 | 1-3 Days | |
| 1 Pound | Priority Mail® | $4.60* | 1-3 Days | |
| up to 70 Pounds | Priority Mail® Flat Rate Shipping |
$8.95* | 1-3 Days | |
| *Priority Mail includes delivery confirmation at no extra charge.
The most common rates are stated here. Not all possible rates. Shipping costs are calculated using weight and distance. (Prices are for a maximum size of 16x16x16 inches, without insurance). |
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We are happy to combine shipping on multiple purchases. Please contact us with your shipping information for an exact quote. The discount is dependent on the combination of items. We will package your order in as few boxes as possible to get you the best rate. How many trees fit in each box depends on their individual size and weight. As stated above, we will refund any shipping overpayments via Paypal.
The Purple Squirrel will email you when your package has been shipped. If delivery confirmation is available, we will also email you a link to the USPS website and your tracking number. You can also check the status of your order on Etsy. This information is available when you login, select "Your Etsy", then "Purchases".
Yes, shipping insurance is available upon request. Please contact us prior to payment and we will send an adjusted invoice that includes insurance. All trees are securely packaged to not shift or crush during shipment. Without shipping insurance The Purple Squirrel can not responsible for items lost or damaged during shipment.
| Coverage Amount | Fee |
|---|---|
| $0.01 to $50 | $1.65 |
| $50.01 to $100 | $2.05 |
| $100.01 to $200 | $2.45 |
| Please email for higher coverage amounts. | |
Although stated shipping is for US only, we are happy to ship anywhere in the world. Please contact us with your shipping information for an exact quote. The Purple Squirrel is not responsible for any additional fees associated with customs declarations or insurance claims.
The Purple Squirrel website was designed by me (Nicole) as a way to reach a wider audience and display all of our trees. Although I have no professional training or certifications, the entire site was designed using XHTML formatting that I learned as I went. I have discovered that I enjoy creating web pages almost as much as making trees. It was a great opportunity for me to learn a new skill and grow the business at the same time.
I would be pleased to design a site for you or your business. Please feel welcome to email me with any questions.