One thing I'm figuring out is that you can only run classes when you have good vibes w/ the LBS owner.  That's also the main way you can get your classes to fill up.  So if you don't live near the store, it's a good idea to keep in touch w/ the owner & manager by phone.  But beyond that, they really need to see your smiling face & observe you buying items from them.  Owners are very aware of customers/friends who drop in but DON'T BUY.  Some are secretly keeping a mental tally.  You defintely want that tally to be in the positive column.

Because the owner, manager, & store emplyees are there every single day & you are not, you've got to make sure that they like & understand the samples you have on display for your next classes.  They're the ones chatting up the customers & making recommendations.  So it's vital that you keep in touch & smooth out any wrinkles.

Anyone else have owner-teacher ideas to share?

sher

Encourage your students to purchase from the store.  It's okay to mention other stores when the store you're teaching in does not carry a specific item.

Please, don't compare the store unfavorably to other stores in the area during the class.  I took a class recently where the teacher kept praising a nearby store and denigrating the one we were in.  The staff person on duty was really uncomfortable, and so was I.

 Also, following up on one of Sher's comments, if you spend time in the store, you'll be familiar with what they sell.  Then if your students will need items not for sale at the store, you can either make arrangements for the store to get them in, or plan to bring them yourself.

 Carole

Carole, you're so right.  My LBS owners often go out of their way to special order items for classes I'm teaching.  One [who's a friend] asked me where I got the capiz shell lentils I'd used on a crocheted cuff.  When she couldn't find them at any of her suppliers, she actually went over to Michael's to have them on hand for my students!  That's dedication!

It's only common sense to not praise other LBSs when you're teaching a class.  It's also a sign of courtesy to not bad-mouth other stores as well.  Who knows what positive or negative experiences your students may have had there?  Plus the owner &/or emplyees are probably listening & may be uncomfortable either way.  You don't know if the other owner is her best friend or archenemy...

Bottom line is -- be on your best behavior if you want to be asked back again.  You need to consistently show that you are the professional you claim to be.  And a darn good teacher, too!

sher