We got a huge range of seeds through some chap on eBay. I think he was from Orkney.
Everything turned out as well as could be expected bearing in mind it was my introduction in to gardening and growing veg. and I'm sure they would have done better in the right hands.
I too am totally seduced by the seed catalogues (I have them all!), but whenever I see something I like I try and find it at the best price - and that doesn't mean compromising on quality. It's like a challenge to me - and think of all the new shoes you could buy with the money you save!
Catalogues have given me a lot of inspiration, but I can't help thinking their products are sometimes a bit of a rip off.