I had a "reputable" quilt shop in my area keep my quilt for five months without quilting it. I did received several telephone calls from the owner giving excuses like I've been very busy, I have to go pick up my grand daughter to keep for a while, etc. The truth of the matter was that the shop became a long arm dealer and her time and focus was spent on the money-making aspect of the shop. Needless to say, I was disappointed that the individual did not honor the agreement we had for her to quilt the top in a reasonable time frame. I finally went and picked it up and took the quilt to another quilter. I would recommend that you sign a contract that shows what is expected from both parties.