Q: What happens if my purchase is damaged during shipping?

A: All of Culinaire's shipments are insured for their full purchase value. This is built into our shipping prices.

Q: How does Culinaire set its shipping prices?

A: Our shipping prices are based on the postal cost, the insurance cost, and the cost of professionally packing your purchase. The postal and insurance costs depend heavily on the shipping destination. Our intent is to set the shipping prices so they are close to the actual packing, insurance, and shipping cost -- and in most cases we end up paying more costs than we actually charge for shipping. We're not interested in trying to earn a profit on shipping. Our goal is to get your order to you safe and sound, with insurance, at the cost it takes us to achieve this.

Q: What is Culinaire's return policy?

A: Culinaire does not accept product returns. The nature of what we do and the antique products we sell makes accepting returns impractical. However, if you have an unusual circumstance, please feel free to contact us and we'll do what we can to accommodate you.

Q: I notice that sometimes your online store is closed for business. Why is this?

A: Culinaire is a small, exclusive, family-operated business. Periodically, we must travel to France for several weeks to search for new Culinaire antiques to replenish our inventory. During these periods, we close our online store. When we return, we replenish our online inventory with our new finds, and open our online store up for business.

Q: I'm not comfortable making purchases over the internet... can I order by telephone and give you my shipping and credit card information that way?

A: Both our website and our online store are secure, and all information provided is encrypted when it is submitted. However, if you want to order over the telephone you can do that. The best hours to call are 10 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time (if you miss us please leave a message and we will return your call as soon as possible).

Q: Can I pay by check, money order, or wire transfer?

A: Yes, if you order over the telephone you can pay by these methods. We will ship your order upon receipt of your check or transferred funds. We will wait up to 5 business days for your check to arrive.

Q: What if I need more information about a certain item I'm interested in?... can I call or email Culinaire to get my questions answered?

A: Yes. The first thing to do is send us an email with your questions -- be sure to include your telephone number so we can call you if necessary.

Q: My purchase is going to be a gift and I want it shipped to the recipient of my gift (not me)... is this a problem?

A: No problem at all. When you place your order you will have the opportunity to choose a specific shipping destination.