To add:
*gas prices may rise again
*25% of sales on top of monthly booth fee? - reduce to 10%?
*bad economy (probably to worsen) for at least two years
people rethinking lifestyle choices
*questions: Can a clause be written into the contract, which would void the contract if after 180 days you decide the venture is worthless to you? This is not standard, but new things are sure to be tried in today's unstable financial mess.

EW put forth the suggestion that first popped into my mind - find a chic restaurant to set up a display, sales = strictly commission based, no space fee

How is your home situated? Can a portion of it be set up as a store front, to where you could charge $85 a month, plus commissions, plus free floor help, plus getting another write-off for your business, as well as personal? You could even have individuals who wanted to test their jewelry making skills come for a day. There are people out there looking for things to do for income, but who can't and won't dish out the start up funds out of fear or lack... but, if jewelry making was on their list of 'wish I could' and they got the bug from a day with you, a day's fee for your time and mentoring may appear worth it... not to mention you might pick up another customer for supply purchases.

The capitalized word, POTENTIAL, stuck out for me, too. I didn't know whether to take it as a positive or a negative capitalization - positive, in that you imagined fortune and fame, or negative as in 'it's only a possibility, not a given.' Can you clarify? I think (like kathy) it's important to understand that entry.

Word of mouth is the cheapest and best way to grow business if you have the quality in merchandise/service to generate it.

You are VERY smart to be thinking ahead. BUT, so what if you aren't chosen... its a good time to get ready with other ideas.

These are my thoughts only, not expected to be taken as truths by any other person.

Hi Meredith, Please make sure you post your decision. I can see the pros and cons of both sides. Woman, You've got talent. I'm totally impressed with your books and web sites.
Maybe you can help me solve my problem. I’m a Boomer and it’s now impossible for me to read without reading glasses.
Unlike Sarah Palin, I buy my reading glasses at the dollar store and I'm always losing them, stepping on them, bending them on the top of my head, you name it.
1. Typical lanyards don't work for me. I like the concept of hanging like a necklace but they pull off.
2. I'm too lazy for the necklace where you hang the folded glasses. Anyway, they fall off too.
3. I'm willing to sacrifice my dollar store glasses.
4. Here’s where you come in, maybe get an earplug or cosmetic foam. Super glue around each of my glasses arms, stuff and super glue into something like a plastic sewing thimble. The thimble would have a chain or something that would clasp to my "one of a kind" meredithbead lanyard.
5. Maybe put something cute on one of the thimble- Like a smiling monkey face. One of those statement pieces that put strangers at ease and they smile back.
6. I know being willing to destroy my dollar store glasses doesn’t bode well and adds credence to the Disposable American Sterotyype- but I really think it will help mother earth in the long run because I break so many!
7. If you get something that works, maybe there’s a market for the Gadget that lets you super glue your glasses and clasp to a lanyard. Maybe apply from a design patent pending.
8. Let me know if you want to give it a try and I’ll go to your web site and place a special order.
Sincerely, Lea

Meredith I think your long term goal is where you are thinking.

You said, "Do I expect fame and fortune? Hardly. But I think that success in this gallery would open up other doors -- NOT doors where I'd have to dolly 500 lbs. on 17 trips from the parking lot. "

So you're expecting to use this as a stepping stone to something bigger and better. Right? So, it sounds like your wanting to accept the offer if you can get it. That's okay because you've got something in your mind where you want to go and this may be were you need to be for now.

I understand MB. I did mean that you know in your heart if you want to use the new gallery as a permanent place or stepping stone. I agree that if you are selling well in the gallery, it would say something about your craft.

I think it's commendable that you are on your way to doing just that with your business. You've done your homework and time girlie, so it's time for you to get the good site. I'll be praying God leads you in the right direction and that doors will open for you.

Meredith, first let me say congratulations again on 1st place finish in the annual show.

I have given your post considerable thought and I have read all the posts. Here's my 2 cents worth.

Location being number one on my list: Why is the previous leaser, with good stock, not making it in a prime location? This is a good question that you really need to address.

Advertising - In store: Are you responsible or will your first place finish be part of any ad campaign for the store? Will you have a professional ad on your display that states that you are a first place winner?
Is there any such thing as out of store advertising? If not,why not? Any brochures for the store?

Setup: Is there a generic setup or are you allowed to do as you see fit for your collection? Presentation is imperative.

They are very lucky to have you and they recognize that. I would try to come to some better agreement that makes YOU feel more comfortable about displaying your art in this location. Sit down with all involved and express your concerns. See if you can come to a solution that works for both parties.

Your jewelry is beautiful and deserves front row center. Wishing you the best in making your decision.

Meredith, I live in a town that has quite a few shops that sell creations from local artisits. What attracts me is DIFFERENT. You should definitely include your boxes and vases. Can those be included with your jewelry?