Years ago I was on a designer purse board where this was a problem. We were in Europe, the Euro was weak & so the fashion houses were considerably cheaper for us. People would ask for favors in picking stuff up from Hermes or LV.... What I've always done is have payment in CLEARED in my bank account before I purchase anything. People would always ask, but I would never do any favors for anyone unless they payed first & it CLEARED my account.
If that's too harsh, another thing you could do is if it's something small, or something that's going fast, get it - but don't ship out until you have payment in hand. You can always return it later if you don't get your money back, or offer to someone else. But never, never ship anything out without first getting your money first. I don't care who it is. Money makes people do stupid things.
OP, I'm really sorry that this happened to you. It's so sad when a truly kind & giving soul is taken advantage of, particularly when it's someone they consider a friend. Don't let it jade you, just safeguard yourself better next time. ((hugs))
__________________ --Catherine  Amelia, Rosie & the kitties  |