I did get really lucky when a new shop opened. I drove over to have a lookwith the thought of just buying a pair of simple flat ballet shoes, just to check it out. There was just the owner, a lady in her early forties, to be honest it looked promising, she did not look like a stuck up ballet teacherwho was at the Royal Ballet School when she was 11. I walked in, there was a women with her daughter being served so I had a good look around. Then "Hello can I help you?""Yes I'd like some white leather ballet shoes in a Size 9""Ok take a seat" as I walked towards the seat I was distracted by the rows of Pointe shoes, I picked a pair up then quickly put them down as she came back with the white pumps. "The largest I have is an 8,""I'll try them" but they were too small."If we know what size you need I'll order some. Stay there." she replied.She then came back clutching a handfull of pink satin flat shoes and asked "Would you mind trying these on?""No not at all," I answered. It was heaven, she could see my obvious delight as I got up and did a demi-plie, I felt so good. So I found my size and asked to buy them with matching ribbons and not to bother ordering the others. "I can order you pointes if you like?" and that was the first time I ordered pointe shoes face to face and not by mail order.She knew I was only into the "Balletwear Dream" and In time to come I wouuld try on various bits from leotards to headbands. I was really into the 'class' outfits then like simple leotards, tights and shoes the shop didn't sell more theatrical gear like proper tutus etc.Sadly the shop went out of business after a couple of years, but I obviously still have fond memories.Plie.