Dear Friends,

     Every year there are questions and many of them are common concerns.  So, in anticipation of this I am providing you with a few answers in no particular order.  Be sure to write to me if you come up with something that I have not included.  I am always willing to add more information to this page to help you in your planning.  I hope you will look this list over before writing, as your question could be included.  If not, you may wish write to me and I will do my best to answer your inquiry as quickly as possible.  I look forward to hearing from you!

             Sincerely, Bette

THE QUESTIONS

Take Me Back to "The Questions"

 THE ANSWERS

1.    When does registration begin and how soon must I register? 

Registration is organized to help give all participants an opportunity to take their preferred classes. Please do not mail your registration deposit prior to "August 18, 2008"   If the envelope is postmarked "August 17, 2008", or earlier, the extra postmarked days will be added to "August 18", and your registration will be placed at the bottom of the pile for that day’s receipts.

All envelopes will be checked for the postmark date!

and placed in order for processing by this date first.  You may wish to make sure your postmaster stamps it clearly.  You do not need to overnight your package as the postmark date will determine your place on the waiting list for processing.  The envelopes will be numbered upon receipt and processed in order using the postmark date as a guide.  

Add-A-Day classes are filled first by "Full Conference Registrants" and then opened to others.

Once you make the decision to attend it is suggested that you immediately send in your registration and deposit, but the envelope must not be postmarked before the stated date!  There is a rush for classes and although Bette loves to place each student into their first choice, it is not always possible.  Fortunately, Elly and Bette know that they have invited exceptional teachers so feel confident that every class will provide the students with a positive experience.  However, we don’t want to discourage you from sending in your registration form just because you think that a class might be full – you never know what will be available no matter when you apply.

Just so you know, Bette does receive many overnight registrations, but this is not necessary.  Some services will not guarantee overnight delivery because of where she lives.  You should check with your carrier for more clarification.  We do not endorse overnight services, but did want to give you this information to use as you wish.

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2.    How do I determine how much the conference will cost?

The overall cost for 2009 is currently being determined.  However, a breakdown for 2008 follows to help give you a general idea of how much your registration might cost.  

• Cost of Main Conference 2008

Cost includes conference class over 4 days; 3 nights lodging (2/12-2/14), Welcome Dinner and Farewell Luncheon, 2 catered socials, registration, and, for early arrivals, the Dessert Reception.

• $732. Per Person (double or triple occupancy)                     

• $952. One per room (single occupancy)              

• $592. If you live off site

• $292. Spouse or non-participating guest

 • Additional Night's Lodging   (These “Vacation “ rates applicable only "pending")

            •  Double/Triple:  $87, per person

            •  Single:  $97, per person

• Optional Add-A-Day Classes:

             •  1 Day Class  - $87, per class

             • 10 hour class (2 Day) - $172, per class

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3.         Can I fax you my registration?

I am sorry to say that faxed registrations cannot be accepted because your deposit holds your student slot.  

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4.         Do you take credit cards for payment?

The Academy itself is not able to take credit card payments.  As a convenience to our students we offer payment options through Pal Pal.  PayPal will accept a variety of payment methods including credit cards.  Although Registrations will still only be accepted and processed via regular mail, a deposit or payment can be made through Pay Pal.  Provided verification of payment through Pay Pal has been received via email, a Registration envelope will be processed in the normal fashion.  Pay Pal sends an email verification to The Academy immediately.  You are not required to have a Pay Pal account in order to use the services of Pay Pal.  Should you decide to use Pay Pal, The Academy will required a 3% charge each time the service is used to help defray the cost that the Academy will be charged by PayPal.

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5.         Can I reserve my space over the phone and then overnight you my registration and deposit?

Although I am happy to accept overnight or priority mail registrations, I cannot take phone reservations.  All classes are filled on a “first-come, first-served” basis, and a $200 deposit is required before a registration can be accepted.  Registration forms are processed and numbered based on the postmark date.

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6.         When is final registration payment due?  

Payment must be received "in full" by November 10, 2008.  Payments not received by that date will necessitate the removal of a registrant's name from the Academy Registration List, and the student's deposit is forfeited.

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7.         If registering for the Full Conference will students who stay "on site" for lodging have class selection preference over those that stay "off site"? 

All "Full Conference" registered students receive the same consideration when it comes to class assignments.  There is no distinction between those that stay on site and those that stay off site.  Each type of registration is handled the same way - carefully dated and numbered when they arrive, and processed in order based on the postmark date.

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8.         Why do I have to pick 3 choices for a class? 

Experience has shown Bette that classes do fill quickly.  Because of this Bette asks that you give 3 choices for classes.  She does her very best to place you in your first choice, but this is not always possible.  Since our faculty is of such high caliber, we feel that whether you receive your first choice, or your third choice, you will be pleased with your class.  A careful log is kept of the selections of each student so that should a class open up they can be moved to a preferred class. 

All classes are filled on a “first-come, first-served” policy.   This means that you may not be able to choose a spot in another class due to unavailability should you decide on an alternate class choice at a later date rather than selecting it on your original registration form.

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9.         Is there a waiting list for classes? 

It is not unusual for a class to fill quickly. Registrations are dated and numbered as they are received, and if a student is not placed in their first choice class, Bette keeps track of this.  Should an opening become available it is easy to determine who is next in line for an opening. She will contact the student immediately to confirm that a student would still like to be moved to their first choice.

All classes are filled on a “first-come, first-served” policy.   This means that you may not be able to choose a spot in another class due to unavailability should you decide on an alternate class choice at a later date rather than selecting it on your original registration form.

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10.       When will I know what class(es) I have?

Registration begins with a flurry, and class confirmations should be sent out in September.  The supply lists for each class will be available on-line for ease of access right with the class description.  If you do not have internet access you are asked to check a box stating this on your registration form, and Bette will mail one.  Supply lists will not be mailed unless requested on the Registration Form.  

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11.       If I have to cancel my registration for health, family or other unfortunate reason, what is the policy?

Cancellations are always difficult for both the student, and for Bette and Elly. The financial contract commitments are contracted on your commitment to come.  Because of this, we strongly encourage the purchase of private Cancellation and Travel Insurance.  We will send you insurance information if requested on your registration, or you may wish to discuss this with your travel agent.  The Appliqué Academy does not offer a cancellation or travel insurance policy!  Reservations must be canceled in writing, and cancelled reservations may include charges.  The brochure will provide the cancellation charges should they apply, however, no refunds will be provided after November 10, and a claim should be submitted to the private insurance carrier.

Cancellations/Refunds CANNOT be accepted after November 10 due to teacher and housing contracts.  If you are unfortunately unable to attend due to illness or family emergency you may transfer your registration to another person, or enter a claim to your private Cancellation and Travel Insurer. There will be a $35 transfer fee payable to the Academy. Although it is the responsibility of the canceling party to find a replacement person, Bette will be happy to help, if time permits, to find a replacement person for a slot should a cancellation become necessary.  

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12.       Can I take just an add-a-day class even though I am not registered as a "Full Conference" participant? 

Thinking of joining the Appliqué Academy, but worried that the main classes are full; or you can’t come for the whole event so thought you couldn’t participate at all? Why not consider joining us "a la carte." 1 and 2 day add-a-day classes are now open and available. For example, come on Monday, take a 2 day class on Tuesday/Wednesday, pick an event or two from our special festivities to match your schedule, and surround yourself with appliqué at it’s finest. Give yourself the gift of inspiration and fellowship. Bette would be happy to speak with you regarding the details for planning a more "personalized" visit. We would love to have you join us, and will work closely with you to help plan your stitching time at the next Appliqué Academy! 

If an add-a-day class is currently full and you have no alternative choices we would be happy to hold your registration in order of receipt in hopes an opening appears. There is no cancellation penalty if a class does not open up. Just be sure to let us know your willingness to wait by sending Bette a note.

To register you would fill in the registration form marking the class that you want to take. If you would also like to stay with us at the hotel for several nights, fill in the area provided for "additional nights" with the dates and compute the cost.  This helps me tremendously with correspondence.  (Remember, Classes #101 through #110 are not available choices as they are Main Conference Classes.)

Send in your registration with the $200 deposit or, if the amount due is less than $200, the full amount is due.  Bette will make your reservations and put you on the wait list for the class. If the class fills and you do not get a seat, she will return your full deposit since you are not canceling - the class is just not available. Be sure to put in an alternate class choice(s) if you have one so that I can try for an alternative for you. If you wish to join in one of the special events taking place while you are with us, you would use the area for "Non-participating Guest" to indicate your wish to join in and include that amount with the total due.

If you are looking for a place to stay other than the hotel where the conference is held you might wish to start with our link to the Williamsburg area for help.

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13.     When will the next brochure be posted on the web site and an email sent to those interested?

A good faith effort will be made to post the brochure in mid-July.  For those who have requested that they be placed on the Academy email list for notification, an email will be sent out making the announcement that the brochure ready to be viewed.  However, because of the efforts of many of the web site servers to block Spam, it could be that your notice will be blocked from delivery.   This is common with AOL users as well as several other servers so you may wish to begin checking the site regularly during July if you have not been notified.  Be sure our email address and web site are listed as a favorite in your browser.

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14.       How does the conference work?  

The Main Conference begins on Thursday afternoon, February 12, at 4:30 pm. when the students are welcomed into their assigned class by their teacher and instruction begins.  The first class session on Thursday ends at 6:30 pm and later that evening the Welcome Dinner celebrates the official beginning of the Appliqué Academy.  Your class will resume on Friday morning and continue through Sunday just before the Farewell Luncheon.   Included in your main conference costs are the following:

•  Registration

•  Your Conference Class – Thursday afternoon through Sunday luncheon

•  3 Nights Lodging – Thursday, February 12, Friday, February 13, Saturday, February 14

•  Dessert Reception – February 11 (for early arrivals)  

•  Welcome Dinner – February 12

•  Catered Socials – February 13 and February 14

•  Farewell Luncheon – February 15

Should you wish to take additional classes or join in additional festivities they will be held early in the week beginning Monday, February 9; and on Monday, February 16. 

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15.       Will I be with more than one teacher?

The conference is designed so that you have an extended period of learning time with “one” teacher during the main conference schedule.  The class will begin on Thursday afternoon and you will be with that teacher until the end of the main conference on Sunday (luncheon). 

Should you have the time and desire, you may take additional add-a-day classes which are available either before or after the main conference.  It is a perfect chance to practice your skills with another teacher or experiment with a technique you might not normally try, and open your eyes to a whole new way to approach an appliqué project.

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16.       How do I pick a class that is right for me?

We have tried to help by giving you the ability level at the end of each class description:  Beginner, Confident Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced.   Our teachers will strive to help you stretch your abilities whether in color, design, pattern difficulty – well the list goes on and on.  So, whether you come to “meet and learn from a special teacher," “love the pattern,” or “expand your horizons”  We think you will be pleased with whichever class you choose if you keep in mind the suggested skill levels. However, don't be afraid to challenge yourself just a bit.

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17.       I really don’t know how to appliqué, but want to come.  Should I come anyway, and if so, how should I prepare for class?

Because the conference is designed for all levels of students the fact that you are inexperienced should not stop you from coming to learn.  However, a truly inexperienced student should take a bit of time to prepare for a class.  We have two suggestions that could help:

    •  Take a beginning appliqué class in your area; or

    •  Purchase a book on beginning appliqué to learn the basic appliqué stitch and familiarize yourself with terminology and simple techniques.  A good example of just such a book is Elly’s Appliqué 12 Easy Ways (C&T Publishing) which covers all you need to know to get started in class.  Practice the stitching techniques and don’t be afraid to learn.

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18.       Do I have to make a “Baltimore Album Quilt”?

Don’t worry!  You don’t have to love “Album Quilts” to come to the Appliqué Academy.  The focus is “appliqué” and its many forms.  Come to learn and then apply the lessons and techniques to your favorite designs.

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19.       Do I have to bring my own sewing machine if I am taking a machine class?

We do not discourage you from bringing your own machine, but it is so much easier to travel without that extra luggage.  Each year we hope to have a corporate sewing machine sponsor who will provide machines for students use.  If a sewing machine is required for a class it will be clearly stated in the brochure class description along with whether the machines will be provided for you, or if you will need to bring your own.  We have honored to have Bernina of America, Inc. providing machine sponsorship for several years.

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20.     How many students are in a class?

We work hard to keep the classes small enough to provide a warm atmosphere for both the students and the teachers.  The goal is 20 students, per class, although we sometimes stretch this to a maximum of 25.

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21.       I am nervous about coming alone – do many people do this?

This is a concern expressed by many first-time students.  A goal of the Academy is to help make students feel comfortable whether they are alone or coming with friends.  One way to help in this is to come as a “double occupant” rather than “single”.  It will then be Bette’s job to assign you a roommate who is also traveling alone.  It is a wonderful way to begin a friendship and share your classroom experiences at the end of the day.   In addition, our hostesses are available to help you should you feel a bit lost or want to share a meal.  We hope that unless you wish use this time as a “quiet time” you feel part of this welcoming atmosphere.  We strive to have this happen and want to hear from you if you feel lonely.

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22.       When will we get our supply lists?

The supply lists for each class will be available on-line for ease of access and found with the description of the class.  If you do not have internet access you are asked to check a box stating this on your registration form, and Bette will mail one to you. She will not mail one to you unless you specifically request one on your Registration Form.

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23.       Where are the classes going to be held?

All classes will be held in The Williamsburg Hospitality House, 415 Richmond Road, Williamsburg, Virginia.

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24.     How do I get from the airport (train station) to the Williamsburg Hospitality House?  

Those flying can come into the Norfolk and Richmond Airport (50 - 60 minutes away) and Newport News/Williamsburg Airport (20 minutes).  Ground transportation to the hotel is available and the contact information will be provided in the registration packet. Round trip is approximately $125 per person with discounts offered for multiple persons, and no reservations are required.  From Richmond the shuttle leaves every hour on the hour, and from Norfolk the shuttle leaves every half hour on the half hour.  Their location is right outside the airport and is very easy to find.  Please allow extra time during rush hour, bad weather, and special events.  Below are several possible transport services available as of February, 2008.  You may wish to contact one or all of them directly to obtain more current information.

Williamsburg is also served by Amtrak, and there is a station approximately 4 blocks from the hotel.  You would need to arrange for a taxi to travel from the station to the hotel.

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25.       Who do I call to make my hotel reservations, or change my arrival or departure dates?

Bette makes all hotel reservations and changes in hotel lodging dates.  You will receive a confirmation of your arrival and departure dates from her later on in the reservations process. She is happy to work with you should your arrival or departure plans change and you must contact her to adjust your schedule.   On your registration form you may indicate any special needs that you require from the hotel such as handicap accessibility.

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26.       I require a non-smoking room – is this possible?

Bette requests that all rooms reserved for the Appliqué Academy will be non-smoking rooms unless a special request is made.  

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27.       What types of restaurants are available close to the hotel?

There are two restaurants in the hotel to serve you. Or, you may wish to take advantage of room service.  There are many nearby eateries so that you will have additional choices.  There are several within walking distance and you will see them as you explore the area.  The Williamsburg Hospitality House is across the street from the beautiful William and Mary College campus so price ranges will fit most pocketbooks.  Although there are no refrigerators in the rooms, you may wish to pick up snacks to keep in your room for emergency energy.  There is also a convenience store within walking distance, which includes a deli and other simple “take back to your room” goodies.

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28.       Is there a dress code for the various Academy events?  

You do not need to "dress up" for any of our events.  Students will be often be coming directly from class to a festivity.  The usual choices are comfortable clothes for classrooms and this can include any of the other events as well.  We most often see slacks worn with layered tops to adjust for classroom temperature fluctuations which is always a challenge for students; and this can continue into the event situation although some students slip on a dress or skirt to give themselves a lift.  Comfort is the key and keeping your packing to a minimum.

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29.       What will the weather be like in February?

Please pack for variable weather. Our February date means that we will still be in the midst of possible winter weather so we recommend dressing in layers, and bringing good walking shoes and an umbrella for possible showers.  The conference has been blessed with both balmy weather and full winter.  We have included a link to the Williamsburg web site so that you could check the most current weather report.  You may wish to click on that button link (Visit Williamsburg) to see what is predicted when you arrive.

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30.    Do I have to mail in a request for a brochure every year or if I have attended the Appliqué Academy before?

Beginning in 2008, we are not be officially printing and mailing a brochure.  Instead, the brochure will be available on-line only.  However, should a registrant not have access to the web, they can mail $3 to Bette Augustine and she will print and mail a copy by first class mail.  A brochure cannot be faxed due to size.  As in previous years, those interested can also print out the brochure and registration form from our web site.  An email announcement will be sent to all parties who have put their email address on our newsletter list.  If you have not signed up you may do so by clicking on "Join our Free Email Mailing List" at the top of this page.

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