I was really on the fence about paying this much for the table, but upon receiving it I have no regrets. This table is sturdy and is not your average look nice, but made with cheap products. It is solid and definitely one that is made for a formal setting! Packaging was beat up, but because it was WELL package there was no damage to the product. I assembled the table by myself with relatively no issues. Assembly was easy, but having two people to put it together  definitely makes it easier. Advertisement pictures are pretty true to form.