"A California-based cookware retailer founded in the 1950s that runs hands-on training for in-store demonstrators; the narrator worked there as a food demonstrator, learned about items from pepper mills to hand-cut glassware, and served samples of the store’s pumpkin quick bread. New hires received a small stainless-steel butter warmer (retailing at $69.95), which the narrator cherished until it was badly discolored by an overcooked egg; when the issue arose, store staff relayed that the manufacturer’s warranty would not replace a pan for discoloration." - Daniela Galarza