I wish I could run part of my business like a meme, like GMK has since before the pandemic.
Also, pictures never came. Calling that out isn't toxicity and it's laughable that people like you bend over backwards to justify this behavior. Designer could have just said nothing, but mentioned the photos and then never posted them. If you think that's fine, well, it's your money. I'd rather not support people who make empty commitments. This time it's pictures, next time it can be poor QC/bad color matching/getting something different than what you paid for.
Also note that on Reddit, GMK tried to shift blame on the designer too, which was subsequently disproven by the vendors in this thread. That's why communication is good for everyone involved, accountability. And how the **** is asking for transparency in any way considered privilege? Have a little self respect and get your money's worth...
So far, I've only seen vendors holding true to their commitments and actually treating backers/clients as such. The rest just pull everything out of their ass and clearly don't give a ****.
I don't think it's lack of self awareness and I have no intention of getting into a discussion over this, it's honestly not worth anyone's time. I just want to underline how frustrating it is to see the way the hobby is handled, it could be so much more if people like this were held to a higher standard.
Over the past few months I've seen NK offer in-stock sets, discounts, promotions, excellent marketing/social media and other A+ business practices. Credit where credit is due, you guys are killing it. GMK and designers though? Eating glue in a corner.