The Firecracker Tabletop Tree looked fabulous in the Gump's catalog. And the description was tantalizing: "Fabric firecrackers, silky tassels, and mini coin purses combine with chili peppers, Gloriosa lilies and tangerines for a fresh take on holiday color. Our faux tree is arranged in an oxblood-glazed ceramic container and accented with 70 sparkling white lights."

It was going to be my attempt at simplifying holiday decorating, which has evolved into a time-consuming event over the past few years. Putting up five trees was getting to be way too much hassle. Martha Stewart I'm not.

I ordered the tree without flinching at its high price -- $225 plus $46 shipping for a total of $271. After all, this was Gump's San Francisco, a quality mail-order company that I had ordered from for many years. And a pre-decorated tree was going to save me tons of time.

My husband, Carter, and I anxiously awaited its arrival. When it arrived about a week later, we opened the box and were horrified. Our long-awaited tree looked looked nothing like the photo or the catalog description. It was equivalent to a tree that would cost $39.99 at a discount store. Not only was the tree fake looking, the ornaments looked really chintzy.

It had to go back. We called and complained. Gump's agreed to take it back, but wouldn't refund any part of the shipping, even though the product didn't live up to its promises. That cost us $66 for the first fee (an extra $20 FedEx fee was added) plus $34.75 in return shipping. The total: $100.75. Carter discussed the problem with a customer service supervisor, but she didn't budge or offer any incentives to make good customers want to return. (Other mail-order companies in similar situations have either paid for the shipping or offered a coupon.)

The lesson: Even if you have ordered from a mail order company for years, don't count on the quality to be the same. And be aware, if you don't like the product, chances are good you will be responsible for ALL the shipping.

-- C.V.S.

Photo: The nice-looking tree we thought we'd get (source: Gump's website)