I like going to new shops to see things my LQS doesn't stock. Price is also a major factor for me. I'm fortunate that I'm reasonably close (1 1/2 hr) to Lancaster, PA. I only shop for projects - not stash. So I'm usually spending a reasonable amount of $$ when I buy. I like staff that knows their store and their products - yes, that fabric is here; no, sorry, we don't have that...would you like to see this? But as someone else said, I'm not overly concerned if they are particularly friendly - just not rude.