At first glance (by the gift recipient), this tree appeared cheap and totally unsatisfactory.  However, since other reviews were very favorable,  I asked that the tree be brought to my home for my own opinion.  Also, I've been very satisfied with all of my prior purchases from Joss & Main. It turns out that my 87 year old mother just looked at the tree in its box.  When I removed it from the shipping box and arranged the branches properly, it was beautiful!  One caution - you MUST turn the branches over while arranging them, as the "wrong side" does look like they are made of cheap plastic.  The "right side", however, looks like-life and very nice.  My mom has decided to keep the tree.