The one thing most quilts shops I have been to fail at is in not having a space to audition fabrics and good lighting.
there is one store I frequent and I use their classroom if it is not in use when I am there and the lighting isn't the greatest. If the classroom is busy there is no place to lay out selections for comparison. I know that space costs and when it is filled with product it might sell. As the consumer of fabric, I'm sure I will buy more if I can see and make selections in a way that doesn't involve trying to hold several bolts together in my arms and try to see if they are good together. I like to stand back and look at selections I am considering. I'm sure you will get lots of good input from all the people on the board. I wish you all the best in your adventure.
peace