Even though I've not had any horrible experiences with the two vendors I've used (J. Monique's and NaturelleGrow), for the most part I do prefer OTG products just because I like the flexibility of being able to swing by Target to get my products in a pinch or buy directly online. This is why I'm very much for some of these smaller brands getting notoriety and starting wholesale distribution. Plus, I've personally found it easier to recommend products on the ground. Many of my sorors have asked me about products and when I mentioned say J. Monique's rhassoul mask and that it was online only...quite a few of them seemed hesitant about purchasing online, versus me talking about KCKT (where we'd go to Target together and buy some). As much as I believe in the power of small businesses, I do realize we need more diversity in the OTG market (especially brands that are less than $12)
One thing that bugs me about online vendors is that there isn't a lot of innovation in the products. I've seen so many naturals (including myself) who say they can't use products with at least one (if not multiple/all) of the following four ingredients:
Shea Butter
Coconut Oil
Aloe Vera
Glycerin
Yet those products are still common in just about most of the online vendor's products. There is a whole, virtually untapped market for online hair care products that don't use those in their formulas. If I do patronize any online vendors, it will be ones that make products that don't include the above (exception being aloe vera since that's the only one of the four my hair, scalp & face tolerates).