All-Reef Client Reviews and Tank Photos

If you would like to submit a client review to All-Reef, just send an e-mail with your name, town, state, and review to: PeggyN@All-Reef.com. If you have a favorite photo of your tank and would like it included with your client review, please send it along. Below you'll find All-Reef customers' beautiful fish and coral tank pictures with their reviews. Thanks, and enjoy!

- "Where would I be without All-Reef as a resource? My reef reference library wouldn’t be nearly as complete as it is today, nor would I have mastered a thriving, mature 7” deep sand bed as inspired by the stunning displays of All-Reef, nor especially such signature corals as “Australian Scolymia from All-Reef in the Zoanthid Garden,” which are among these pictures submitted in gratitude. Peggy Nelson, store owner and proprietor, was also quite careful to gently pre-qualify me for purchase of this sensitive and beautiful organism during my first visits in years past. Peggy won’t sell to make a sale. Her focus is long-term success, thereby ensuring the quality animals entrusted to her care have good homes in the years to come. She has followed along ever since, during an active correspondence beginning with Peggy’s first surprise follow-up email in 2007, and which continues today in 2009. I now count Peggy as both friend and mentor, and I follow her guidance to “keep it simple.” I have also been blessed in that I have been able to visit other quality Local Fish Stores (LFSs – or in this case, “not-so-local” LFS’s) from coast to coast: From Orange, California to Northampton, Pennsylvania. In all my travels and experience, All-Reef of Stillwater still sets the standard. So from a nationwide perspective? All-Reef, in my opinion, wins Best of the Best. Good Job, Peggy! Thank you! " ~Jim Elness, New Ulm, MN

- "The customer service at All-Reef is amazing. Every time you visit Peggy's store, you will receive her undivided attention and walk away knowing she cares about your success in the hobby. One day I went into her store and mentioned I have been looking for a gold-rimmed blue maxima clam for about 2 years. A week later she emailed me a picture of one she had tracked down for me. She is great to talk "reef" with and willing to share her knowledge. You will love visiting her store on a weekly basis to see all of the new additions to her coral selection. Thanks for everything Peggy! " ~Justin S.

- "We came across All-Reef about a year ago when we were in Stillwater. At the time, we were just beginning to set up our aquarium again. My husband is pretty knowledgeable about reef aquariums, and needless to say, as soon as he started conversations with Peggy, he was hooked. I, on the other hand, enjoy our aquarium but have very little experience. Peggy is always willing to take the time and explain any questions or concerns I may have, especially on the crabs (she knows how much I like them.) We pretty much take one day a weekend and stop by to see what’s new and look for a new addition to our aquarium. Peggy’s knowledge and compassion for the corals and fish she sells is far above anywhere else we have been. We always know that what we are buying is going to be the best. We value both the friendship we have developed with Peggy and the great resource of All-Reef. Peggy, thank you for all your help, advice, and your pleasant personality." Pat and Sandy

- "All Reef is in my opinion the best saltwater / reef store in the area, hands down. Peggy, the owner and operator, is extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the saltwater trade. She cares about everything that comes in and goes out of her store. She takes time with each customer to get to know them and their system and then guides them in their purchases. She makes sure that what you buy fits with what you have so you don’t waste time and money on something that won’t work for you and so the animal that you buy will survive and thrive. What puts All-Reef above all the other stores along with the fact that Peggy is so helpful and friendly and has the highest quality livestock around is that she also takes the time to get to know her customers and their systems. She prides herself in using her experience to make sure she is only giving good, accurate, and tested information. She would only sell you something that will work for you rather than sell you something just to make a buck. There are two things that have turned me into a life-long customer of All-Reef. First, Peggy will not sell any livestock until she is confident that it is healthy and doing well. Second, a few days after you buy something she usually follows up with you to see how things are going with your new purchase. These two reasons are at the top of a long list that keeps me going back to All-Reef." Phil K.

- "Hi Peggy, here is the latest of my tank. One-year anniversary. I give a lot of the credit to you for steering me in the right direction. Thanks for all your help." Paul Olson

- "I dreamed of owning a reef tank for over 30 years, and my husband and daughter surprised me just 7 months ago with our first tank. They splurged to have a 'store' set up a beautiful 90 gallon system with gorgeous rock and corals. Problem was the owners were more intent on sales than on compatability and survivability of a reef tank. The wrong fish were sold to me, and corals began to die. I was then sold a plethera of additives and supplements to keep the water parameters stable in between montlhy water changes. I was instructed to test daily, ect. What stress! I returned several fish that were attacking my corals but some I had to 'give' away. I wasted hundreds of dollars. That said, when one day visiting a large pet store that carried a few reef items and talking with the staff, I was told to call Peggy Nelson at All-Reef in Stillwater to discuss my tank. What a God-send. I think she counseled and instructed me for hours over the next few days. She instilled renewed hope that reef systems could indeed be easy, fun, and less stressful than what I was experiencing. Several times Peggy has said "Relax and enjoy your tank. Observe, and your corals and fish will tell you if something is wrong." She also told me to get rid of the costly addivitives and do weekly water changes with a quality salt mix instead. I call her Professor Peggy as that is what she seems to be to me: someone who is an expert on reef systems and loves to teach and train. But she is more than that. She insists on responsibility to the animals she allows to be purchased. She is patient and has become my friend. She even knows my name! I purposely buy my saltwater from Professor Peggy so that I have an excuse to come in regularly to admire all the beautiful creations of God. It's my eye-candy for the week! Thank you Peggy! And thanks to her husband whom I hope to meet someday. As they say...behind every good woman is a great man! May God bless you as you praise Him for His incredible creations on the reefs of our oceans. " Becky Vierling Denmark Township, MN

- "I have been keeping fresh and saltwater aquariums for the past 15 years. I have only kept fish only tanks because when talking to specialty stores it was always either hard to understand or they just did not have time for you. It wasn't until Vickie and I ran into a small shop in Wisconsin where we met Peggy. Her knowledge of the marine scene was unlike anyone I had ever met and her kindness was second to none. An example of her kindness was the first time we ever visited her Wisconsin shop, we drove out to find that she was closed, but she was there doing her tank maintenance. Not knowing who we were, she was happy to open her doors to let us see her shop. This was the beginning of a relationship that still is strong to this day. Peggy's knowledge and willingness to teach finally gave me the opportunity to gain enough confidence to start the always wanted reef system. We value All-Reef and Peggy, not to mention her husband's behind the scene silent support. All-Reef not only gives us a place to enjoy but a place to further our knowledge. We thank you guys and love the new Stillwater store." Mark and Vickie LaManna

- "Hello to all who visit All-Reef’s website. I’d like to share my story. My name is Greg and I have enjoyed freshwater tanks since childhood. About two years ago, I got turned on to reef tanks. It’s like having a little bit of paradise in my home. The unfortunate part of this story is that there is a lot of bad information out there, and that’s where my story begins. I have a 40-gallon corner bow front tank in my home office--beautiful potential reef tank. As I set up, I was given advice on basics such as specific gravity, corals, fish, and maintenance. To save you all a long and boring story, I will just say the first year did not go well. In fact, it went so badly that I almost converted the tank to freshwater. I was on the edge of the so called cliff and considering quitting the hobby, and then I met Peggy at All-Reef! I walked into her store in Stillwater, MN, and was shocked at how great all her tanks looked! I introduced myself and we started talking about my tank issues. She quickly realized I was a beginner who had acquired a lot of bad information. She walked me through the basics and gave me things to work on with my tank, such as consistency in water parameters and methods to get rid of the terrible hair algae I was dealing with. She was very receptive and never tried to sell me anything I didn’t need. In fact, she held me back on several occasions from buying corals, explaining that my tank was not yet ready for them. My tank has now become my little piece of paradise! Peggy coaxed me down off the cliff, and I now have a tank that is amazing and easy to maintain. If you are finding this story is familiar, give Peggy a call, she’ll be glad to help you! I have attached some pics of my tank." Greg D. - Hudson, WI

- "Peggy - the Yellow Tang went in great and seems to love the place. He already has his swim route picked out--through the hole to the back and around to the Favia, then back to the hole. Thanks again for all the great stuff I have received from you; its all been top notch." Paul Olson

- "Peggy, Thanks for the e-mail! It's nice to find someone who truly cares about their livestock and customers. The Hippo Tang is doing very well. He was fairly shy for the first day, hiding in a cave and sticking his head out every once in awhile to "test" the waters. But, he has already become more comfortable with his other tankmates and me. He loves to eat! and I am tempted to feed him more than I should. I am quite pleased with him, and am equally impressed with your store and passion for what you do. I also look forward to seeing you next. Brandon D.

- "The staff at All-Reef are very helpful and experienced at reefkeeping. If you have a question and think it's stupid, ask anyway. Peggy will have the answer or research it and get back to you right away. I have been going to All-Reef for about a year now and have learned something new from Peggy each time I walk in the store. The atmosphere at All-Reef is very relaxing, especially when you are stressed after a long day's work. If you are in the Stillwater area just drop in and watch all the stunning fish and corals! You will be very impressed with what All-Reef has to offer the beginner or experienced reefkeeper. If you are into reefkeeping, give All-Reef a try." Todd Hunt - Hugo, MN

- "After being away from the marine aquarium hobby for some 20 years, I was wooed back after seeing a beautiful reef display at All-Reef. Being an engineer, I was intrigued by the challenge of maintaining my own setup, but where to start? Casually looking into the chemistry and mechanics (off the web) I was quickly overwhelmed by the technical advances and wealth of information amassed during my hiatus. The more I read, the more I found the information conflicting. Even so, I was determined to make a go of it. Fortunately, All-Reef was conveniently located a few miles from home and I soon found myself visiting the store and asking questions on a regular basis. Peggy is extremely knowledgeable about husbandry and reefkeeping. She patiently listens to my questions, asking for specifics - guiding me towards solutions, often following up with an email or during an eventual return visit. She offers a perspective which takes most of the guess work (stress) out of the hobby - making it an enjoyable pastime. You'll also find All-Reef to be very clean with well-maintained displays. I recommend stopping in next time you're in downtown Stillwater - you won't be disappointed." Peter Howard - Stillwater, MN

- "Peggy from All-Reef has been instrumental in helping me successfully set up and stock a large aquarium in my home. Her large collection of sea life is not only fascinating but also far healthier than any other marine store I have ever seen. Peggy has always been happy to provide insight into any troubles with my tank or ideas for its future. I only buy from All-Reef because of the excellent customer service, superior specimens, and inviting atmosphere. Prices are fair, and if you are getting into the hobby and need someone you can trust, make a visit to All-Reef." Nicholas Lowry Nick@buildingrestoration.com

- "I have been to almost all the fish stores in the Twin Cities area. After being either badgered or fed wrong/bad information by the employees/owners, I have decided to buy exclusively from Peggy at All-Reef. She helped me through everything on setting up my tank to stocking it. I love even just visiting Peggy because she shares her knowledge of and passion for corals, inverts, and fish. I always walk out of there with a smile and more knowledge on reefing. I would recommend that everyone interested in saltwater fishkeeping visit her store and inquire about her classes." Nick Lovgren River Falls, WI

- "All-Reef seems to be one of the best kept secrets in the Twin Cities. Like their name, they specialize in coral, fish, and marine animals. Peggy is very willing to help with any questions, and I have learned a lot from her in only a couple visits. There may be other stores closer to my home (they're in Stillwater), but the livestock is very healthy and they have a broad selection, and it's well worth the drive." Steve Flaten Burnsville, MN

- "Peggy at All-Reef goes out of her way to get the customer what they are looking for. She e-mailed me with a picture attachment after seeing a similar patch of zoo's that I was interested in purchasing a couple weeks back. The fact that she remembered what it was I was looking for and realizing she had some in stock, and going out of her way to inform me that they were available, has led me to be a customer for life. All-Reef has a great selection of corals at a reasonable price and an owner that goes out of her way to serve the customers." Eric Hopkins

- "I'm in the process of setting up a new reef aquarium, and I have found Peggy and her store "All-Reef" to be an invaluable resource. Peggy is extremely knowledgeable about all things reef. She knows her corals, her higher inverts, and her fish. She is generous with good advice and will help any novice like myself make good decisions and avoid potential problems. Finally, All-Reef has incredible live inventory and is a wonderful place to shop. Unlike most other aquaria shops that feel like a medieval dungeon, "All-Reef" is immaculate, bright, and open. The condition of the shop leaves me with confidence in the coral, fish, and live rock I take home!" Bruce and Tamy Leventhal, Stillwater, MN

- "All-Reef's livestock quality is top-shelf! Over the past few years I've become quite accustomed to All-Reef's excellent service, reasonable prices and dedication to responsible reef-keeping. Every conversation with Peggy is an eduation. Her advice and recommendations have made this hobby a truly enjoyable one. Thanks Peggy! By the way, the new store in Stillwater is beautiful!" Darren Verette, Stillwater, MN

- "What can one say about All-Reef? First, quality of livestock is unsurpassed. You WILL not find better corals, fish or inverts anywhere in the midwest; vibrant, colorful, and always in the best of health. Second; customer service, once again, best around. You can't find more personalized attention to your needs. Peggy has been reefing for years, and will set you up with everything you need for long term success. No worthless gadgets or other junk you'll regret buying. Third, All-Reef's prices are amazing! No more ordering stuff from multiple web sites to get the savings, Peggy has everything you need right in front of you! I buy all of my dry goods, and livestock at All-Reef, and the savings never stop. Weekly specials save you even more . For me, it's pointless to go anywhere else." B. Johnson, an All-Reef fanatic

- "About 2 years ago, I started a 55-gallon tank with freshwater fish, enjoyed the experience, but thought now it was time to take the next step and venture into saltwater. Talking with co-workers and reading as much as I could, I took the step. But what I really needed was a place to go to get my questions answered in a fashion I could understand. Well that place was All-Reef and Peggy was the person. She first gets acquainted with what type of system you have and where you want to go with it. She'll never sell you anything that won't fit your needs. Along with the friendly atmosphere, the selection of fish and corals is always plentiful and healthy--truly a treat to stop in and just look around or small talk, and even if you can't get in to see her, she's always responsive to e-mail questions you may have." Ron and Louise

- "I've shopped every local fish store that carries corals, and I have never had the same experience at those stores that I have at All-Reef. The service at All-Reef is one-on-one, and I know that I can get my questions answered immediately by Peggy, who has almost 2 decades of experience with reef tanks. The most surprising part of my experience with All-Reef was when I checked my e-mail several days later and saw that I had received an e-mail from Peggy inquiring about how my purchases were faring. I am very happy with my purchases. I think that as far as pricing goes, Peggy does great on large colonies such as the red lobo and blastos I recently purchased. Also, the pricing on the blue rics was very nice. What I like best about All-Reef is that I can go in there, b.s. with Peggy, and have her close by to answer any questions I may have. Her selection of sps and lps is top notch in comparison to other stores in the area. In my opinion, you have a way better business than most of the stores in the area. I would rank you in my top three choices. As far as customer service goes, you are at the top." Matt Wolmutt, Twin Cities Marine Aquarium Society

- "Hi Peggy, I wanted to send you some pictures and many thanks for all the first-class advice. Everything is doing very well! My only problem is that I am out of room in my tank. I have rarely found large items of this quality elsewhere. Keep up the good work. Thanks again. " Trever Sire

- "After having kept tropical fish for many years, my son convinced me to let him try a reef tank. I was a little leery of trying this new venture. We made several trips to All-Reef. Peggy always took the time to explain the whole process. Finally after several more trips we decided to jump in. Boy are we pleased! The reef tank has been a great addition to the family room. Peggy takes a lot of time to ensure that our purchases will cohabitate together, and everything is always healthy!" Ken

- "Peggy,  I just can't quit smiling since my clam came in today! I just wanted to drop you a line or two to say thanks for the 12+ inch show Derasa. It was all that you promised and then some. I was quite apprehensive when you told me of its beauty (The Clam) because of past disappointments with other dealers, but you lived up to the hype! This is definitely the nicest clam I've ever laid eyes on coupled with its massive size & you gave me a more than fair price on it. Thanks for answering the 100 emails with all the questions about measurment and so forth. You answered them all honestly as evidenced by the clam himself." Antonio, Phenix City, AL

- "The All-Reef experience is for those with an appreciation for personal attention to quality. One can tell this is not only a business, but a passion. Peggy knows the characteristics (and characters) of all the livestock in her store, showing personal attention to their health and nature. It is by far the healthiest livestock I have ever found commercially. One can comfortably ask questions, which she honestly answers, showing a concern for the well-being of her livestock. I feel fortunate to have such a great resource nearby. Where else can you go where you will get e-mails checking on the health of your purchases?" Chris Johnston

- "We tried to get our first saltwater aquarium up and running by working with a local fish store. The advice and support we received was insufficient. Then we found All-Reef and Peggy Nelson, where along with finding superior fish and reef products, we got a wonderful education in how to do it right. Now, our father and son aquarium project is going better than we ever hoped for." John and Conor Vaughn Stillwater, Minnesota

- "I live in South Minneapolis, minutes from some of the more popular stores, yet whenever I need livestock that I know will be healthy or solid advice, I gladly make the drive to visit All-Reef. It's obvious that Peggy has vast experience in reefkeeping and she has great care and enthusiasm for the hobby. The livestock is thriving and Peggy kindly offers as much advice and information as you need. Visit All-Reef once and you'll undoubtedly return!! D.J. Oeltenbruns Minneapolis, MN

- "I have shopped at all the bigger name stores in the Cities for many years, but I have recently discovered All-Reef and found their quality to far exceed any other store. The livestock All-Reef carries is healthy, well adjusted and thriving. If that is not more than one could ask for, the prices are better and the service is next to none. (Owner) Peggy's passion for what she does is an incredible resource for anyone from a new to a very experienced hobbyist. She has a wealth of information and is willing to share it. I wouldn't shop anywhere else." Eric Sorenson Menomonie, WI

The following is a thread from two members of the Eau Claire TRT forum: "I love All-Reef!     - I know many of you have visited All-Reef, but I just wanted to mention how much I enjoyed my first trip there today! Peggy is hands-down the nicest person I've ever had the priviledge of buying fish from. She sold me a beautiful blue hippo tang and a fighting conch for a ridiculously good price! And it was one of the few times I've ever seen a store that wasn't full of sickly fish / corals or horribly inadequate equipment. The selection was very good, but not everything was there. But, that's ok, since I have no doubt Peggy could get me anything I wanted if I just asked! It is some of the best customer service out there, so anyone from ECRC who hasn't made the trip should really think about it. I don't think I'll ever be able to buy fish from any other store than All-Reef after today. It was awesome! Ok, I'm done. :-) Sorry, I just couldn't believe how nicely run and maintained this place was!" Joe and then Sheli Jo's reply: "Isn't she super?!?!! She's an honest saleperson - won't sell you something that won't live in your tank. You can ask her anything and if she doesn't know, she'll find out for you. I've had great experiences with her. Glad that you enjoyed it too." Reefkeeping is an Addiction not a hobby! ~*~*Sheli Jo~*~* "

- "I'm pleased the Rochester Reef Community recommended I visit the ALL-REEF store. Peggy (the owner) was very helpful in answering all my dumb questions. I could have purchased the wrong size and type fish for my system. I also saw some beautiful corals that I would have purchased, but again Peggy made sure I only purchased what would work best for my system. I will continue to go to ALL-REEF." Kenny, Woodbury, MN

- I was at your store this past Sunday. I am looking for a red scolymia, either small or medium. If you could keep your eye out for one, and if one comes available, please let me know. You have a great store with a wonderful selection. I was very impressed. Keep up the good work! All of the fish and corals looked very healthy and are maintained extremely well. And, you really know your stuff and can pronounce everything correctly :). Thanks for keeping an eye out for a red scoly. Have a great week, David

- I've got to tell you Peggy, it's nice to hear from the owner of a business about when they're getting stock in that I'm looking for. Also the help with the tank testing was very appreciated. That's great customer service that you don't see much anymore. Thanks again for your help. Don Dahlquist

- I just wanted to say...  this is a great place!  Peggy is an encyclopedia of information and help.  She is about honesty and not trying to make a quick buck off of someone.  I would have to say that her shop is all about QUALITY and not about quantity.  That's a great way to stay in business.  I hope some of the WI and MN people get a chance to visit her shop. Sheli Menomonie, WI

- Hi Peggy, I have a wonderful testimonial from my 6 year old. He was wondering about his favorite fish "Tommy" (a three stripe Damsel). We had Tommy for about 3 years so he was quite large. I turned him in for store credit as a LFS (who wants a large damsel?). I told him "Don't be sad little buddy, he's happier now and is in a really safe place." He then said, "Oh, did you bring him to Peggy's?" How can you beat that? Thanks, Mike

- I just started my first reef tank and I am very thankful to Peggy and All-Reef. Peggy is and has always been very patient and knowledgeable. The quality, price and customer service is outstanding and unbeatable! Everything I have bought from All-Reef has been healthy and beautiful. You can easily tell that Peggy takes great care and pride in her fish, corals and her customers. It’s always a great experience shopping at All-Reef!!! Jodi Johnson

- Peggy….You have always been so knowledgeable and helpful when we have questions or problems with our reef tanks. You've gone the extra mile each and every time we needed something. I know that your goal of becoming the premier livestock provider and reef specialty shop this side of the Twin Cities is a very obtainable goal. Your prices and the quality of livestock are unsurpassed with any other store I have visited, and I have visited a lot of shops! We truly do appreciate your kindness and knowledge. I highly recommend your business to all the people I know in the reef world! Carrie Hogan Chogan@baldwin-telecom.net

- All-Reef is an incredible experience. Peggy's corals, fish, and inverts are top of the line, all healthy and well cared for. Peggy's knowledge of reef related issues helps the buyer make informed decisions, and insures the customer goes home with the right livestock for his or her tanks. I look forward to each visit. JP Hansen pcb_dfx@hotmail.com

- The most personalized service that I have found anywhere. Peggy treats every customer like they are her only customer. Beautiful livestock. This is the only shop in town where I am confident that I won't bring anything "extra" home with my purchase. All of the specimens I've purchased have been disease and pest free. If you wish to ask me any questions about Peggy and All-Reef I've given Peggy permission to give out my email address upon request. Gary Johnson Stillwater, MN

- Here's my testimonial. I don't know beans about fish, but I know Peggy. She is well read, experienced and very knowledgable. Her standards are high and her integrity is unequaled. Whether you're a beginner looking for that special someone to guide the way, or a retailer looking for healthy stock, All-Reef is the answer. Thanks for being you, Peggy. Dan Johnson