The Lace Guild
Courses and Workshops Q&As
by Amanda Binns
How do I find out about the Courses and Workshops being run by The Lace Guild (TLG)?
All information on how to book, where and when it will happen, and the Tutors teaching on the course, can be found on the website. It will also appear in LACE magazine, on Facebook, and wherever we can externally advertise the events.
How does TLG decide on which tutors to ask?
We look at feedback, the types of lace which have not been taught recently at one of our events and the availability of the Tutors.
How does TLG decide which venue is suitable?
We research the venues by talking to the Events Team, asking lots of questions and telling them our list of criteria. Then we visit the venue to meet the “event manager” face to face. Usually, we are taken on a tour to see the classrooms, the bedrooms, the dining arrangements and check out the accessibility of the building. This happens after we have had a Quote but before we sign any Contract.
This part of the process can take up quite a bit of time. As a Member, you could help by volunteering to visit a venue near you. Also, you may know of one that might be suitable and offer to check it out for us. In the case of the latter, we can provide a list of criteria that we look for in a venue.
How does TLG work out the cost of an event, such as a Spring or Summer School?
We contact a venue, ask lots of questions about the classrooms, lighting, dining and accessibility. We also consider how accessible the venue is by public transport. Then we look at the Quote for the 24-hour delegates, hire of the classrooms, together with the cost of Tutors fees and travel. All of these figures are then entered onto a spreadsheet and we work out the cost for attendees based on our projected minimum numbers.
Working all this out is an extremely difficult task due to the unknown number who will actually book to attend. If you can think of a better way, please do not hesitate to contact us and talk to us. The venues are chosen based on how they fit with our criteria.
Why is the cost going up so much?
TLG has always tried to keep the cost down, which means dividing by a higher expected number of attendees. However, the membership has fallen and the venue costs have gone up and the Tutors need to be paid the “going rate”. We have to be realistic in our costing and make it a viable event. Future events may be shortened to 5 nights instead of the previous 6 or 7 – this helps to keep the cost down so that it is similar to the previous year.
Why is there not a course near me?
Based on past experience, there are regional differences in attendance levels and expectations. This, unfortunately means that it is necessary to travel in order to attend a course you wish to do.
However, we do need members to look out for possible venues and tell us about them. You could volunteer to look locally for a venue, be a co-ordinator for a course, or visit a venue to check it out using our criteria.
Why does a course get cancelled every time there is a Spring or Summer School?
If we do not reach our minimum number target with all 3 courses, we have to cancel one of them so that we can at least cover our costs. It is usually the one with the least number of students. This also means cancelling one of the classrooms (only one classroom is included in the Day Delegate rate – extra classrooms are charged for as extras).
If I have paid my “non-returnable” deposit, will I lose it if the course is cancelled by TLG?
No, you will only lose it if you cancel. However, if there are exceptional circumstances, it is possible that your deposit could be returned if you need to cancel. Exceptional circumstances are decided on an individual basis, the sooner you let us know, the better. Please ensure that you tell your family about your plans for a trip. You may wish to take out insurance.
How do I pay to attend a course?
The options for payment are explained on the website, the Booking form or you can call the The Hollies and chat with Sharon.
What happens once I have paid my deposit?
You will hear from Sharon at The Hollies if there is a query about your booking. Then you will receive an email to let you know when the remainder of the payment is due.
What happens once the deadline for the final payment has passed?
You will be contacted by the Co-ordinator, via TLG, about the Programme for the week and given further information along with the opportunity to chat with your Tutor by email about your intended lace project.
What can I expect to get out of attending a course run by TLG, apart from making lace?
You will be making lots of friends, exchange tips and generally have a very enjoyable time away.