I got this tree to replace one that I got a few years ago from another company. Just a portion of its lights quit working, and after trying everything possible, I couldn't get them fixed. I can't believe we're in a place now where non-functioning lights forces us to buy a whole new tree, but we are. It did give me the ability to upgrade to a taller and more natural looking one, especially with a Black Friday sale. Once up, this tree is beautiful. Initially, I wasn't sure I was happy with the branches. About the end third of each branch is the realistic part, but it's feel is very stiff plastic. The inside two-thirds of each branch is the standard thin and softer old style. I'm not sure if there's a reason for this other than cost, but I wasn't very happy at first. I didn't remember reading anything in the description indicating that this is how the tree branches are. I almost left it in the box and started a return. I was afraid if I built it and didn't like it, I'd never get it boxed again to return. I decided to go ahead and build it anyway, and I am glad I did. It looks incredible. I still wish it was clear in the description about the branch design and why it's like that. You feel a bit ripped off. I think Balsam Hill should be more clear about the branch design so people understand what they're paying for. Had I understood up front, I think I'd still purchase it, and it would have 5 stars instead of 4. Lastly, there's no way to plug anything external into the tree lights. Especially at the top where you want your topper. I had to string an extension cord all the way through the center of the tree to hide it, to the very top of my 12' tree, and secure it to the tree as well. This should definitely be changed. At least 1 outlet for use at the top at a minimum. This took my initial 4 stars down to 3.

The tree is beautiful and sturdy. It is "all that" as far as tree structure and ease of set up. There are a lot of lights. My only complaint is that the colored blue lights on the multi-color is that "electric blue" LED color that pierces your brain. I went on multiple sites, youtube, etc... to see if anyone ever submitted a photo of the tree when it was lit in a dark room. The online catalog shows a very traditional blue when it is lit in a well lit room. I crossed my fingers and hoped for the best. It is just my preference, but I do not like that quality of blue light. It is overpowering. I will likely just light the white lights. It is very beautiful with just the white lights. However, if I'd known the above, I would have chosen the white light only.

This tree is absolutely gorgeous and the perfect shape/size. It did take a good amount of fluffing (like an hour) to get all the branches in place and covering the middle. Also the tree itself doesn't feel super secure and it can wobble around if you push it. The screws on the bottom of the pole don't have a hole to go into unlike other trees. So it's not actually screwed into the stand. Other than that it's a beautiful tree.

For the price this should have been better. There were gaps and branches that you couldn't bend into place. Branches were really loose and sagged all the way down instead of sticking out straight. It's not so easy to just adjust- we tried but couldn't tighten the branches. We tried everything to make it work. I called the 800 number and they were really helpful and offered a refund. (Couldn't replace them since out of stock). They agreed both trees had issues.