Well, I did it. I finally experienced that uniquely Houston rite of passage – a trip to Gallery Furniture. After nearly two decades in Houston, I had never visited this H-Town landmark. Hmmm… I actually showered for this?
I have been looking for a desk because I moved my massive executive style one into the garage. It was taking up half of my living room and as I am going to be putting down wood floors soon, I needed to move it anyway. The idea is that I can be just as effective with a smaller desk. Okay, enough back story… on to Gallery Furniture.
I was pretty unimpressed on several levels. The biggest shock was how overpriced the furniture seemed. Now I’m not any authority on furniture as I have the typical collection of bachelor odds and ends, but geez – Mack’s stuff was crazy expensive. The other thing I noticed was how HUGE everything was. I don’t think there was a small item in the place… monster sectionals, massive recliners, insanely large beds… you name it – this stuff seemed made for giants.
I especially thought the whole “free food with purchase” thing was hilarious. I watched people buy $1,400 recliners and then get excited because they got a free hot dog and coke. It’s pretty easy to see why Mattress Mack has more money than God.
What is impressive about Gallery Furniture is remembering when it was just a little dumpy furniture place years ago. I think Mattress Mack is a great hometown success story. Every time we go there, he is there. He has worked hard and still works hard at that place. Yes, the prices are not cheap, but he has a great selection of everything. Plus the sports collectibles are cool!
I totally agree that his story is amazing and kudos to him for that. His support of local sports teams, the Livestock Show, and all the great causes certifies him as a really great person.
I heard that the voice on the overhead speakers is a recording they play to make it seem like he is there all the time. I never actually saw him. Even if it is a recording, it’s damn good marketing on his part. Yeah, the sports stuff rocks as well.