Shopping for new furniture can be one of the most exciting parts of furnishing a home—whether you’re moving into a new space or simply upgrading your current setup. Salt Lake City boasts a variety of high-quality furniture showrooms, offering everything from luxury pieces to affordable finds. But walking into a showroom like RC Willey without a plan or understanding of showroom etiquette can turn what should be a fun experience into an overwhelming one.
To help you make the most out of your next visit to a furniture store in Salt Lake City, we’ve created this detailed guide on furniture showroom etiquette and how to get the best possible experience while shopping.
1. Do Your Research Beforehand
Before you even set foot in a furniture showroom, it’s a good idea to do a little homework. Think about what kind of pieces you’re looking for—sofa, dining table, bedroom set—and get a sense of your style preferences and budget.
Browse the website of the showroom you plan to visit, such as RC Willey, which often lists current inventory, pricing, and in-store promotions. This not only saves time but also helps you avoid showroom fatigue caused by browsing without direction.
Pro Tip:
Bring photos of your current space and measurements of the rooms you’re furnishing. It’ll help sales associates better guide your choices.
2. Know When to Ask for Help
Sales associates are there to help, but they understand that some shoppers prefer to browse independently. It’s perfectly acceptable to take your time and look around first. However, don’t hesitate to ask questions if you need clarification about materials, delivery options, or customizations.
In reputable stores like RC Willey, staff members are trained to assist without being overbearing. If you’re ready to make a purchase or need more detailed advice, they can offer expert guidance that makes a big difference.
3. Be Respectful of Showroom Items
Furniture on display is meant for customers to see, touch, and even test out—but it’s still important to handle everything with care. Avoid jumping onto sofas or letting children climb on furniture. Always ask before opening drawers or rearranging pieces.
Being respectful not only protects the merchandise but also shows consideration for the staff and other customers.
4. Dress Comfortably for the Occasion
Furniture shopping might not seem physically demanding, but it often involves a lot of walking, standing, and even sitting to test out furniture. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes so you can move easily and stay relaxed during your visit.
If you’re testing recliners or mattresses, casual attire can make the process feel more natural, helping you evaluate comfort more accurately.
5. Understand Store Policies
Each showroom has its own set of policies regarding returns, exchanges, financing, and delivery. These policies can significantly affect your overall satisfaction with the shopping experience.
For example, RC Willey is known for its excellent customer service, offering white-glove delivery options and flexible financing plans. Taking the time to understand these policies upfront can prevent surprises down the line.
6. Plan Your Timing Wisely
Weekends tend to be the busiest time in most furniture showrooms. If you prefer a more relaxed environment, try shopping on a weekday or earlier in the morning when stores first open. You’ll likely get more personalized attention and less crowded floors.
Additionally, some of the best deals can be found during seasonal sales, such as Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, and end-of-year clearance events.
7. Take Notes and Photos
As you browse, it can be easy to lose track of what you liked and where you saw it—especially if you’re visiting multiple showrooms in a day. Use your phone to snap photos of furniture you’re interested in and jot down notes about dimensions, pricing, or fabric options.
This will be incredibly useful later when you’re comparing options or making final decisions with your partner or designer.
8. Think About the Whole Room
While it’s tempting to focus on that perfect sectional or statement piece, remember that furniture should fit into the broader design of your space. Consider color palettes, material harmony, and overall aesthetics.
Stores like RC Willey often showcase furniture in styled vignettes, which can help you visualize how pieces will work together. Take advantage of this inspiration to imagine how items will look in your own home.
9. Be Transparent About Your Budget
There’s no shame in having a budget—and being upfront about it can actually improve your shopping experience. Sales associates can help guide you to pieces within your price range and alert you to discounts, financing options, or bundled packages that offer better value.
RC Willey, for instance, has a wide range of products for all budgets, from premium designer lines to more affordable essentials.
10. Follow Up After Your Visit
Once you’ve had time to reflect on your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to the showroom with follow-up questions. Many furniture stores in Salt Lake City offer email or phone consultations, and some even allow you to place orders online or over the phone if you’ve already visited in person.
Keeping in touch ensures you don’t miss out on limited-time promotions or stock availability.
Final Thoughts
Shopping at a furniture store in Salt Lake City doesn’t have to be a daunting experience. With a little preparation, a respectful approach, and a clear idea of what you want, you can turn your showroom visit into a successful and even enjoyable journey.
Whether you’re redecorating a single room or furnishing an entire home, showrooms like RC Willey offer not just high-quality products but also expert support to make the process smooth and rewarding.
Remember, the key to getting the best experience lies in balancing curiosity with courtesy—and knowing that great service starts with great etiquette.
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