I would encourage you to visit Glisson's shop. Pay close attention to the "customer service" (or lack there of) and general disrespect for the folks who come in there willing to part with their hard-earned dollars. I think folks like Sonny gets some sort of a kick by making folks feel stupid (or atleast not as knowledgable as them).

Then, try to be the opposite of folks like Sonny. Be friendly. Be ACTUALLY INTRESTED in
#1. You, the customer (where your from, where you hunt, likes/dislikes)
#2. Respecting the customer and being very careful (tactful) of not making them feel stupid.
Be willing to educate the customer as much as they are WILLING TO BE educated. Offer
a little bit of info at a time and see how much more the customer is hungry for. (That is
the downfall of folks like Sonny. They like to take all they know and basically shove it
down (or up your ???) your throat all at once.
#3. Your bow/equipment. Shooting style. Preferences.
#4. Have a coffee pot going. It's nice and a good way to make folks feel welcome. It gives a
warm feeling to a shop and folks can stick around and talk over a cup. (I can't
remember the last time I had foks over at the house and didn't offer a cup of coffee.)

Notice that I listed the customer first, because that is the most important thing moving in and out of a bow shop. The customer carries the money in (and maybe out) of the shop.

Just my two cents. But I can guarantee you that if your shop doesn't get open til the summer of 2010, I'll be in there before I go into Glisson's place again.

I would also strongly encourage you to advertise in the Outdoor Notebook and get set up, well ahead of time for setting up a booth (a real nice one so you stand out) for National Hunting and Fishing Days at Silver Springs State Park in September. That would be a good place to get some real good exposure. You could sponsor the archery range at the event, too. Maybe some youth bows for door prizes or raffles. I say youth because OUR YOUTH is OUR FUTURE!

Uncle Matt (in IL)