Wow, what an undertaking! I am also opening a shop (baby gifts) in the North Atlanta area. While searching for tips on store design, I came across this blog that really had some great startup info for retail shops. If you go to the blog, scroll down and read it from the first posting to the most recent. That way you have the full story. Believe me, it really takes a lot of research to make that kind of decision. I have been in businesses for decades but diving into the unknown is still risky.
In the blog at http://cutelittlestore.blogspot.com/ this lady offers some real insight to the ins and outs of opening a store. I have purchased her book today and look forward to reading it tonight.
While I am here, if anyone knows of a store designer in the Atlanta area, let me know--I just can't design it myself :o .
Thanks and good luck on your venture.

Julia
http://www.StorkandVeil.com