Hi Ree Ann,
I'm not too far from you, but I'm a beginner too, so I don't think I can help you too much, but would be willing to try or at least share my experiences.
I have found the ladies at Quilt Works to be very helpful and friendly.
I'm going to have to try and check out the private home store. I didn't know about that one! If you guys do a shop hop - I would love to join you.
Donna