We have a new shop in our area but won't go on a Saturday anymore when the "hubby" is there "helping out". It's a young couple and the wife is very nice. She leaves me alone unless I ask her for help. The hubby was trying to sell me all kinds of fabrics (although I told them they are not my taste). He tried to convince me to try them. I explained I don't use large-scale prints but he didn't accept that. THEN, he wanted me to test-drive one of their Elna machines. I told him I'm perfectly happy with my Babylock but, again, wasn't accepting that so I watched the other lady in the shop working on the machine, pointing out what I didn't like about the machine. Figured that would get me off the hook.
I finally ended up leaving the store without buying anything because hubby frustrated me. I only go now during the week since he's working elsewhere.
The only suggestion I can offer to your shop owner is "Not sure what I'm looking for so if I need some help I'll let you know". If that doesn't work, I'd probably take my business elsewhere too. I enjoy the process of picking out fabrics and don't want anyone bothering me.
Good Luck!!