Mecca Maxima Wintergarden

I went in with a game plan, knowing what I wanted, which will help you immensely if you are prone to splurging on makeup. I found all the staff to be super friendly, and ended up staying for over half an hour getting my colour matched for a foundation, along with a full face of makeup as the sales assistant showed me other products she loved — all of which I am now budgeting for. I’m not much of a makeup wearer and after explaining this to her, along with a few other things about how I do like to wear it, she gave me some recommendations that I completely agreed with, and I left feeling like she had really listened to me and shown me products that would actually suit me, rather than just throwing a bunch of random makeup at me and trying to get me to buy everything. I’m incredibly happy with the service I got at Mecca, and unfortunately for my bank account, I can see myself returning to this place like a moth to flame.

The staff here are only friendly to me if I’m already absolutely slathered in makeup. Which is silly really, because I go cosmetic shopping fresh-​faced so I can ensure I find a product that works well for me. Just because I don’t hate myself enough to wear a full face just to go shopping, doesn’t mean I don’t want to spend the ridiculous amount of money required to buy quality makeup in this country.

Sure: Mecca has some hot competition on their toes with as ephors opening in Sydney this December, but for now, this is as good as it gets for us cosmetic loving dames and gents in Brisbane.
Of course there’s always that other shop, open ²⁴⁄₇ a.k.a the World Wide Web but you’ll be pleased and/​or surprised to note Mecca have recently dropped their prices quite heftily to fall in line with US prices. And they’ve always been generous with samples. As a dame with sensitive and often reactive skin, the ability to really test a product, be it makeup or skin care, before I buy is appreciated. Pair this with customer service from the staff that 9 times out if 10 goes above and beyond and it’s a bricks and mortar store I’m more than happy to give my Monopoly money (read: paycheck) to.
As Fleur pointed out the staff don’t pounce straight away. They will ask but I’ve always found them to be respectful of my space once I say I’m just looking. Similarly, if you do need a hand they’ll be ready!
If you are to visit either of the Mecca’s in the Mall, this is my pick. There’s just a little more range than the Queens Plaza store.

Helpful friendly staff who don’t pounce on you as soon as you enter, but are still nearby to offer a suggestion or answer a question are just the start of the great customer service that you get in Mecca Maxima. Makeup Lessons, Make overs or just assistance with picking a lipstick or serum to soothe your tired skin. The range of products and prices is really quite good and there are fantastic Aussie brands sitting side by side the glamorous cult beauty buys. Don’t be afraid to go and give them a try and if you are baulking at the price of some items they do offer samples.