LOL - I will probably buy her an eGo online (or in a coop if one goes active at the right time) and a couple of Vivi Novas to get her started, but I know when I first started vaping the variety and complexity of product was overwhelming. I didn't have a clue, and didn't want to spend a bunch of money getting started. I drove an hour each way to the nearest B&M, and while I paid more than I would have online, it was worth it to get to talk to someone who knew the various products and steered me in the right direction. Also, for a new vaper, being able to try out a bunch of different juices without investing $$$$ in them is really important. I diy, and know what I like, but a new vaper doesn't. I was thrilled when a B&M opened in Oceanside. I can pick up a quick (overpriced to be sure, but quick) atty if I need to. They don't have a great selection of mods, but those I generally buy online, unless it is something limited that I have to have new (my ProVari, for example). The shop in Laguna Beach charged the same as ProVape, and I got instant gratification. I agree, however, that not all shops are the same. I was in Virginia, and took my son to the only shop I could find, and was totally underwhelmed. I had called ahead, and talked to a gentleman who seemed to know his stuff, but when I got there, there was a very nice lady who was clueless. I was glad I hadn't sent my son in alone! I even bought a couple of 510 attys, that when I got home turned out to be 510 extensions. Taught me to pay more attention and not just trust someone to put things in a bag for me.
Wow! I'm rambling when I should be working. Have a great day, and when you're in SoCal, check out eCig City in Laguna Beach. Jason will make you want to move down here!