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Frequently asked
questions
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How do I initiate a return or exchange?To return or exchange an item, email us via the contact form with your order details. We’ll provide instructions and a return address to ensure a smooth process.
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Can I cancel my order?Absolutely! We understand that choosing an antique is a big decision, and we’re here to make things easy for you! You can cancel your order and receive a full refund if you reach out to us before your item ships, which typically takes 2-3 days from when you place your order. Just drop us a note via the contact form on www.tale-house.com or email us directly, and we’ll handle everything.
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How long does it take to process a refund?Refunds are processed within 5-7 business days after we receive and inspect the returned item. Funds will be returned to your original payment method.
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Who covers the return shipping costs?Return shipping costs are typically the customer’s responsibility unless the item was damaged or incorrect. Please review our return policy at checkout or contact us for details.
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What is your return policy?We accept returns within 14 days of delivery if the item is unused and in its original condition. Contact us to initiate a return, and we’ll guide you through the process.
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Are there any items that are non-returnable (e.g., final sale antiques)?Most antiques are returnable, but certain items, like heavily discounted or custom-sourced pieces, may be final sale. Check the listing or contact us for clarification.
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Do you insure items in transit?Yes, at Tale House, we ensure every antique is protected during transit with comprehensive insurance through Shippo. This covers your purchase against loss, damage, or theft, giving you peace of mind. In the unlikely event of an issue, our partnership with XCover via Shippo ensures a swift claims process, typically resolved within 3 days.
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Where do you ship to (e.g., domestic only, international)?Tale House ships across the UK and internationally, bringing our antiques to homes worldwide. Shipping options and costs are detailed at checkout based on your location.
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Can I pick up items in person if I’m local?Absolutely. All UK shipping is free, so simply add a note that you'd like to collect it and we'll communicate with you directly to arrange this.
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What are your shipping rates and estimated delivery times?Shipping rates vary by item size, weight, and destination, calculated at checkout. UK deliveries and most international deliveries typically take 5-10 business days, while some orders may take up to 2-4 weeks.
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How are fragile antiques packaged to prevent damage?We take great care to package fragile items with protective materials, ensuring they arrive safely. Each piece is wrapped and cushioned to preserve its condition during transit.
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What happens if an item arrives damaged?If an item arrives damaged, please contact us within 48 hours with photos. We’ll work with you to resolve the issue, whether through repair, replacement, or a refund, as per our policy.
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Do you offer tracking for shipments?Yes, once your order ships, you’ll receive a tracking number via email to follow its journey. We partner with trusted carriers to ensure reliable delivery.
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Do deliveries require a signature?Yes, all Tale House deliveries require a signature upon receipt to ensure your antique arrives safely and securely. This extra step helps protect your special piece and confirms it reaches you in perfect condition.
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Do you offer installment plans or financing options?Yes, we offer convenient installment plans through Clearpay, Klarna, and PayPal Credit, making it easier to bring home your chosen antique. Simply select your preferred option at checkout to spread the cost over time, subject to their terms and eligibility.
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Are there any taxes or duties applied to orders?UK orders may include VAT, while international orders may incur customs duties depending on your country’s regulations. Taxes are calculated at checkout where applicable (please confirm specifics on the site).
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Can I purchase items as gifts, and do you offer gift wrapping?Yes, our antiques make wonderful gifts! While gift wrapping isn’t currently offered, we can include a personalised note. Contact us at checkout to arrange this special touch.
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How do I place an order on the website?Ordering is simple: browse our catalogue at www.tale-house.com, select your item, and follow the checkout process. Add the piece to your basket, enter your details, and complete payment to bring a piece of history home.
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What payment methods do you accept?We accept major credit/debit cards and secure online payment methods like PayPal, Apple Pay and Google Pay. All transactions are processed securely to ensure your peace of mind.
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Is my payment information secure?Absolutely, Tale House uses secure, industry-standard encryption to protect your payment details. Your privacy and security are priorities, ensuring a safe shopping experience on our site.
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How can I contact customer support?Reach out via the contact form on www.tale-house.com or email us directly on hello@tale-house.com. We’re here to answer your questions with a personal touch.
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How do you handle privacy and data protection for customers?Your privacy matters—we use secure systems to protect your data and comply with GDPR standards. Details are only used for orders and updates you’ve opted into.
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Can I request a consultation or styling advice for my home?Victoria is happy to provide styling tips or discuss how a piece might fit your space. Contact us with your ideas! hello@tale-house.com or instagram.com/tale_victoria.
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Do you have a newsletter or way to stay updated on new arrivals?No, we don't have a newsletter. The best way to stay in touch with products and updates is via my Instagram, instagram.com/tale_victoria. You can always email us at hello@tale-house.com and we will respond quickly.
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What are your business hours for inquiries?We respond to inquiries Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM GMT, though we strive to reply to emails promptly, even outside these hours, to assist you.
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Do you have any sustainability practices in sourcing antiques?By curating antiques, Tale House promotes sustainability through reuse and preservation. We source thoughtfully, prioritising pieces that endure and reduce environmental impact.
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How can I sell or consign my own antiques through Tale House?While we primarily curate our own collection, we’re open to hearing about unique pieces you’d like to consign. Email us with details and photos to start the conversation.
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What should I do if I encounter an issue with the website?If you experience website issues, please contact us via the contact form or email. We’ll address technical problems promptly to ensure a smooth shopping experience.
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Do you offer wholesale or bulk purchasing for designers/interior professionals?We welcome inquiries from designers and professionals. Contact us to discuss potential collaborations or trade discounts for bulk or regular purchases.
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Are there any upcoming events, sales, or collaborations?Stay tuned via my Instagram (@tale_victoria) for announcements about sales, events, or special collaborations. We love sharing new chapters with you!
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Are the items one-of-a-kind, or do you have multiples?Most items at Tale House are one-of-a-kind, reflecting their antique nature and unique stories. Occasionally, we may offer similar pieces, but each listing specifies whether it’s a singular find or part of a set.
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How can I view more details or additional photos of an item?Each listing on www.tale-house.com includes detailed descriptions and photos. For more images or specifics, reach out via our contact form, and we’ll happily provide additional details to help you connect with your chosen piece.
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What types of products do you offer (e.g., paintings, furniture, decor)?Tale House offers a range of antiques and interiors, including paintings, furniture, ceramics, and decorative objects. Each piece, from grand portraits to cozy chairs, is chosen to add warmth and history to your space, as showcased in our catalogue.
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Do you offer custom sourcing or personalisation for items?While our collection is curated, we’re open to inquiries about sourcing specific types of antiques. Contact us with your vision, and Victoria will do her best to find a piece that matches your story.
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How often is the catalogue updated with new items?Our catalogue is refreshed regularly as Victoria discovers new treasures. While there’s no fixed schedule, subscribing to our newsletter (available via the site) keeps you updated on the latest arrivals and curated finds.
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What condition are the antiques in? Do you restore them?Our antiques are in good to excellent condition, with any wear or patina noted in the listings to preserve their authentic charm. While we don’t typically restore pieces, we ensure they’re ready to bring joy to your home.
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How should I care for and maintain my antique purchases?The short answer: Antiques thrive with gentle care—dust regularly, avoid direct sunlight, and use mild cleaners for wood or metal. Our longer answer: Caring for antiques like paintings and objects in the home involves maintaining a stable environment to prevent damage. Keep temperature between 15-24°C (60-75°F) and humidity at 40-55% to avoid cracking, flaking, or corrosion. Minimize exposure to direct sunlight or UV light, which can fade colors or degrade materials; use UV-filtering window films and position items away from bright sources. Regularly rotate displayed objects to distribute light exposure evenly. Handle antiques with clean cotton or nitrile gloves to avoid oil transfer, lifting by sturdy parts rather than delicate areas. Dust gently with a soft microfiber cloth or sable brush, avoiding water or chemicals unless advised by a professional. Display items away from heat or damp areas, using secure mounts or padded stands, and store them in acid-free materials in climate-controlled conditions. Regularly inspect for damage like cracks or pest activity, and consult conservators for valuable pieces needing repair or cleaning. Protect antiques with insurance and maintain an inventory with photos and appraisals. Monitor for pests and use non-invasive deterrents, avoiding chemical sprays. For specific materials, seek tailored advice or professional help to ensure proper care and preservation.
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Are there any warranties on the items?Due to their antique nature, items are sold as-is, with condition details provided in listings. We ensure quality but don’t offer formal warranties.
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Do you provide restoration services or recommendations?We don’t offer in-house restoration but can recommend trusted professionals for repairs or refinishing. Contact us for guidance tailored to your piece’s needs.
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What if an item needs repairs after purchase?If an item requires repairs post-purchase, reach out to us for advice or referrals to skilled restorers. We’re here to help your antique continue its story.
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Are all items on Tale House authentic antiques?Yes, Tale House specializes in authentic antiques and vintage interiors, carefully selected for their age, craftsmanship, and character. Each piece is a genuine find, though specific details about age or provenance are provided in individual listings.
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How do you source your antiques and interiors?Victoria sources antiques from trusted markets, auctions, and private collections across the UK and beyond, seeking pieces with unique histories. Her curation process, rooted in a love for storytelling, ensures every item feels special and handpicked.
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Who is Victoria, and what inspired Tale House?Victoria, the heart behind Tale House, is driven by a love for antiques that tell stories. Inspired by her home in the UK, her family, dog Bear, and chickens. She created Tale House to share her curated finds, connecting people with pieces that evoke joy and history, as described in her personal welcome on the site.
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What is Tale House?Tale House is a curated online collection of antiques and interiors, handpicked by Victoria for their timeless beauty and unique stories. From paintings to furniture, each piece is chosen to bring history and character into your home, reflecting a passion for pieces that feel like they’ve lived a life before finding you.
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Is Tale House an online-only store, or do you have a physical location?Tale House is primarily an online store, allowing Victoria to share her curated collection worldwide from her UK base. Currently, there’s no physical showroom, but you’re welcome to contact us for inquiries about specific pieces.
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What makes Tale House different from other antique shops?Tale House stands out by offering a highly personal curation of antiques, each chosen for its soul and story. Unlike mass-market retailers, Victoria’s hands-on approach ensures every piece feels like a discovery from her home to yours, blending charm with authenticity.
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