I'm using the flat side because those that say to paint walls white always specify FLAT white paint - don't know if the shiny side is as good but would likely be able to tell with a light meter test (which I'm not doin). YES, I have ordered twice from Nirvana and got my package in a week both times. I'm on the east coast of US, so it's not far once they cross over from Europe. They have a very good reputation and customer support. Did you check the site for your order information to see if it's been shipped? The holidays could be a factor still maybe, but you could always open a 'support ticket' and ask about it. They ship quite creatively and stealth should not be an issue, so it could be that you just need to allow a bit more time. If you didn't get anything saying customs has taken them, then it may be the postal service napping on the job too. Couldn't hurt to ask Alice at Nirvana to look into where the order is... -Mandi