Studio Policies & Terms of Service

Studio Policies & Terms of Service
Welcome to SOYOU ceramics! Please read our studio policies carefully before completing your booking. By making a reservation or entering the studio, you agree to the following terms.
1. Booking & Studio Admission
  • Paid Reservations Only: Only individuals with paid reservations will be admitted to the studio promptly at designated class times.
  • Strict Capacity: The studio may only be accessed during your specific allotted time. No additional guests (partners, friends, children, or pets) are permitted without a separate paid reservation.
  • Make-Up Classes & Refunds: SOYOU ceramics does not provide make-up classes or issue reimbursements for missed sessions, programs, or workshops due to student illness, emergencies, weather, or other uncontrollable circumstances.
2. Group Events & Private Workshops
  • Non-Refundable Deposit: A flat reservation fee of $100 is required at the time of booking to secure your date. This deposit is strictly non-refundable and forfeited upon cancellation.
  • 6-Guest Minimum: All private events require a minimum of 6 guests. If your final attendance falls below 6, the host is still financially responsible for paying the full cost of the 6-guest minimum.
  • Headcount Decreases: If fewer guests attend than originally reserved, billing is calculated based on the original reservation. (This adjustment rule only applies to guest counts above the 6-guest minimum).
  • Final Balance & Firing: The remaining balance must be paid by the host immediately after the event concludes. SOYOU ceramics will not fire, glaze, or process any pottery pieces until the final payment has been successfully settled.
3. Food, Snacks & Alcohol
  • General Food Rule: To protect studio equipment and clay quality, food consumption is only permitted after the instruction and crafting session has completely ended. Eating during class is strictly prohibited.
  • Adult Group Exception: For adult-only private groups, finger foods, cupcakes, and light snacks are permitted during the session.
  • No Greasy Foods: Greasy or messy foods (e.g., pizza, fried chicken) are strictly prohibited at all times, as oils ruin the glaze and raw clay.
4. Safety & Studio Etiquette
  • Safety Dress Code: For safety reasons, individuals with long hair must tie it back, and all jewelry should be removed before engaging in studio activities.
  • Personal Belongings: SOYOU ceramics is not liable for any personal items lost or left behind. We strongly recommend leaving all jewelry and valuables at home.
  • Property Damage Fee: If a participant mishandles another member’s piece and causes damage in any way, a $50 fee will be charged to the responsible party.
  • Surveillance: The studio is under 24/7 security camera surveillance to ensure the safety of all members, students, staff, and equipment.
5. Artwork Defects & Kiln Disclaimer
  • Natural Variations: While every effort is made to handle pieces with care, please note that during the kiln firing process, glaze melting, pinholes, cracks, breaks, black spots, and other defects may occur. These are natural characteristics of pottery and are not eligible for refunds.
  • Event Compensation: In the rare event that a private event guest's piece breaks due to a kiln malfunction, SOYOU ceramics will compensate the affected guest with a one-time class voucher. Cash refunds will not be issued.
  • Follow Instructions: Participants must carefully follow all instructions. The studio is not responsible for defects resulting from manufacturing errors (e.g., cutting mistakes, improper decoration attachment, or plate bending). We do not remake or repair pieces; they will be given "as is."
  • Underglaze Print Transfer: Adding a print design using underglaze transfer sheets incurs a $20 fee for a standard 2x2 print (larger prints will have an additional fee). Pieces with prints require a third firing, which may extend the pickup timeline.
6. Pickup & Storage Policy
  • 60-Day Storage: All member, student, and event work will be stored on designated shelves for two months (60 days) after being unloaded from the kiln. We will notify you via email/text when pieces are ready.
  • Unclaimed Items: Any work remaining on the pickup shelf after 60 days—including unfireable pieces—will be donated or discarded due to limited storage space.
7. Assumption of Risk & Release of Liability
  • Risk Acknowledgment: Participants acknowledge the inherent risks associated with pottery activities, including exposure to clay dust, chemicals, sharp tools, and hot equipment, which could potentially cause bodily injury.
  • Release of Liability: By utilizing the facilities at SOYOU ceramics, participants (and parents/legal guardians of minors) assume responsibility for all risks and waive the right to sue or release SOYOU ceramics, its owners, and employees from any claims, including negligence.
  • Minor Supervision: For events involving minors, active adult supervision is required at all times.
[ ] I have read, understood, and agree to the SOYOU ceramics Studio Policies, including the Non-Refundable Deposit, 6-Guest Minimum for events, Kiln Disclaimer, and the 60-Day Pickup Policy. (Parents/legal guardians agree on behalf of minor children).