Review on Spode Christmas Tree Peppermint Coaster - Festive Holiday Tableware for Xmas Décor and Protection by Rovy Oppeneer

Recently bought as a wedding present for someone along with a matching teapot. Of course I didn't NEED them, but I unpacked them and checked their quality before giving them away. The packaging was nice and made for a nice presentation. It had a cut out on the front so you could see the items inside. Surrounding this was a much stronger box that protected the case during transport. I removed this outer layer for packaging but was very glad it was there for shipping because it kept the inner box in perfect condition. The product as a whole is attractive and the coasters are a nice touch that makes you feel like you are getting more bang for your buck. I think everyone loves the extra bits. Somehow it enhances the holiday and is of course also practical because. Who wants hot chocolate stains on their Christmas tablecloth? a family tradition where they decorate their Christmas tree or something else year after year. We have a similar set and every year I get dizzy opening it! I was expecting high quality for the price and I have to say that I was a bit disappointed at one point. The design of the caramel leaves on the handles and inside the rim is very solid, but the one we got didn't line up quite correctly on the handle. The pattern seemed inclined to end right where it meets the cup from the top and bottom. It ended there, but I think it was applied at the wrong angle. It's hard to explain, but it just didn't hit the mark. I think QA should have caught it and ripped it out. If it was for me I would have sent it back and asked for an exchange but I didn't make it before the wedding and it wasn't too bad. Some people won't notice, but I sincerely believe it was a bug that should have been spotted at the factory. I wouldn't mind if it was from the dollar store, but at collector's prices you want collector quality. The rest of the photos are good and correspond to what you get. I'm not deducting a single star for this B/C. I saw the picture first and felt the same way when I saw it, but personally I find the bowl over the tree to be a bit dingy from the outside. When I saw it live, I wanted to add something like tiny evergreen bits or a bit of knurling to the edge of another design by this company. I only mentioned it because if you felt it when looking at the pictures, you will feel the same when you see the product. I argued and thought the sweet touches were worth the exchange. Now I'm not sure, but I really think red and white add a lot of celebration and fun. I just think next year's version should have a bit of both, or at least a slightly more refined cup shape. family memories. The kettle was great too.