Paying the assembly fee is WORTH IT!  We decided to assemble it ourselves, and it was difficult.  The screws and connectors come in separate bags that are not labeled and you have to do a little guess work selecting the correct screws on several steps.  Also, the instructions are mostly illustrated.  Written out directions would have been helpful.  But if you can get past the difficult assembly, the finished product is beautiful!  Very sleek yet sturdy and adds quite the sophisticated touch to your room.