Frequently Asked Questions

Shipping & Delivery

How long does delivery take?

Most products ship from our South African warehouse and arrive within 6 business days. Lead times are clearly stated on each product page. Unlike international retailers, we stock locally to eliminate customs delays and provide faster, more reliable delivery across South Africa.

Do you ship internationally?

Currently, we focus exclusively on the South African market to ensure the fastest delivery times and best customer experience. All products are stocked in our SA warehouse.

What are the shipping costs?

Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on your location and order size. We work with trusted carriers to provide competitive rates while ensuring your premium products arrive safely.

How is my order packaged?

All items are carefully packaged with protective materials appropriate to the product type. Fragile items like lighting fixtures and glassware receive extra cushioning and reinforced boxes. We take pride in ensuring your purchase arrives in perfect condition.

Returns & Exchanges

What is your return policy?

We want you to love your purchase. If an item doesn't meet your expectations, please contact us within 7 days of delivery to arrange a return. Items must be unused, in original packaging, and in resalable condition.

What if my item arrives damaged?

While rare, shipping damage can occur. Please inspect your order upon delivery and contact us immediately with photos if you notice any damage. We'll arrange a replacement or full refund promptly.

Can I exchange an item for a different size or color?

Yes, subject to availability. Contact us within 7 days of delivery to arrange an exchange. Please note that return shipping costs may apply unless the item was damaged or incorrect.

Product Quality & Sourcing

Why are your prices higher than mass-market retailers?

Upstaged Living curates premium home goods that balance craftsmanship with value. We source products with superior materials, attention to detail, and timeless design—qualities that mass-market retailers often sacrifice for lower price points. Our pricing reflects the true cost of quality: better materials, more durable construction, and designs that won't feel dated in a year. We position ourselves as the premium alternative for South African homeowners who refuse to compromise on style.

Where do your products come from?

We source from trusted manufacturers globally, with a focus on quality control and design excellence. All products are inspected before being stocked in our South African warehouse to ensure they meet our standards.

Do you offer warranties?

Warranty coverage varies by product type and manufacturer. Specific warranty information is provided on individual product pages where applicable. For any quality concerns, please contact us directly—we stand behind everything we sell.

Lighting Fixtures

Do I need an electrician to install lighting fixtures?

Yes, we strongly recommend professional installation by a qualified electrician for all hardwired lighting fixtures. This ensures safe installation, proper electrical connections, and compliance with South African electrical standards.

Are bulbs included with lighting fixtures?

This varies by product—check the individual product page for details. When bulbs are included, they're standard fittings (E14, E27, etc.) that can be easily replaced at any hardware store. We recommend LED bulbs for energy efficiency and longevity.

Can I use LED bulbs in your lighting fixtures?

Yes, all our lighting fixtures are compatible with LED bulbs. We recommend LED for lower energy consumption, reduced heat output, and longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.

How do I clean crystal chandeliers?

Dust monthly with a soft microfiber cloth or use compressed air to remove debris from hard-to-reach areas. For deeper cleaning, use a solution of warm water and mild dish soap applied with a soft cloth—avoid harsh chemicals that can dull the crystal finish. Always turn off power before cleaning.

What's the difference between rose gold, brass, and gold finishes?

These finishes offer different aesthetic tones: Rose gold has warm blush/pink undertones and suits contemporary, glam, and romantic interiors. Brass has a warmer, more antique yellow tone ideal for vintage or industrial styles. Gold is a classic warm yellow that works in traditional and transitional spaces. Choose based on your existing hardware and design aesthetic.

Furniture & Decor

Do furniture items require assembly?

Assembly requirements vary by product. Check individual product pages for details. When assembly is required, all necessary hardware and instructions are included.

How do I care for wooden furniture and decor?

Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. For wooden items, use furniture polish or wood conditioner occasionally to maintain finish. Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature changes to prevent warping or fading.

Are artificial floral arrangements realistic-looking?

Yes, we source premium silk and botanical arrangements with natural color variation, realistic textures, and thoughtful composition. These aren't budget artificial flowers—they're curated decor pieces designed to rival fresh florals in visual impact while offering years of maintenance-free beauty.

Games & Entertainment

Are game sets suitable for children?

Our game sets are designed for family entertainment, but age appropriateness varies. Chess and dominoes are suitable for ages 6+ with adult supervision. Check individual product pages for specific recommendations and always supervise young children with small pieces.

Do wooden game sets come with instructions?

Classic games like chess and dominoes follow standard rules widely available online. Some specialty games may include instruction cards—check product descriptions for details.

Payment & Security

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, and secure payment methods through Shopify's encrypted checkout. Your payment information is never stored on our servers.

Is my payment information secure?

Absolutely. We use Shopify's PCI-compliant payment processing, which employs industry-standard encryption to protect your financial information. Your security is our priority.

Do you offer payment plans or buy-now-pay-later options?

Payment plan options may be available at checkout depending on your order total and location. Look for available payment methods during the checkout process.

Still Have Questions?

We're here to help! Contact us at [your email] or use the contact form on our website. We typically respond within 24 hours during business days.