I am writing to give a big "thank you" to Keith at Aventine Miniatures. I recently ordered my first group of ancient miniatures – Byzantines – from Aventine. Although I have not yet received the order, here is why Keith and Aventine deserve a thanks and will have earned my business in the future: Simply great customer service.
I literally know nothing about the ancient period (other than generic notions of imperial roman history). I came across Aventine's website thinking, "wow – look at the selection of metal Romans which I need like a hole in my head" Then I saw the Byzantine and Sassanid cataphracts and thought to myself "these are really, really nice." But, I literally know nothing of the period. So I wrote an email through the website's "contact us" tab seeking some guidance about the period and the types of miniatures that would be "era appropriate". I received an email back from Keith almost instantly with guidance and reference material suggestions.
Several emails between us were sent and Keith ultimately helped me select a few units and shield transfers. He even gave some wargames rules suggestions. Suffice it to so say, I ordered the miniatures he recommended. I have since purchased reference materials and am in the process of learning some pretty amazing history from an era I know so little about.
As I said, I have not received the miniatures yet. However, that does not matter. I thought TMPers should know about the really great experience I had with a manufacturer. I highly recommend Aventine and really am expressing my thanks to Keith. I cannot wait to receive the miniatures and am already planning on the Sassanids to order so I can have a powerful force ready to stare down the Byzantines.
Thank you Keith!