An aura of mystery…an Addams Family kinda feel…(assuming you’re old enough to remember that show)…and a whole lot of grunge…just the way I like it! Welcome to Enchantments in the East Village of NYC…filled with friendly witches…personable cats…and lots and lots of incense, candles, essential oils, resins and herbs. Oh, and a great selection of books (occult themed) and cards…think divination and tarot. Oh, oh, oh…and then there’s magical tools…witches brewing pots and such. But if you’re looking to cast a spell on someone…you’ve come to the wrong place…no black magic…only good intentions are promoted here.
It’s obvious from the constant movement of customers to the back of this tiny little store that people are interested in their custom-carved candles. After you belly up to the candle bar, you explain your scenario and the candle witches go to work by customizing a candle and a ritual for you to take home. Perhaps you’re trying to bring clarity to a situation, improve your relationships, or clear away obstacles…whatever…there’s a candle to help you with that.
What really got my attention was the huge collection of pewter talismans hanging above the checkout counter. Now you have to understand…I have an evil eye from Turkey, a hamsa from Morocco and Turkey, a bronze four leaf clover over the entry of both homes, the feng shui mystic knot from Chinatown, a buddha amulet from Thailand and of course numerous buddha statues purchased locally or from travels. So….of course a talisman was a must to add to my growing collection. So I looked and looked and came across the travel talisman. Of course! It was perfect…as the travel talisman is designed to bring good luck, unexpected adventures and protection from accidents, theft and illnesses.
My travel talisman is about an inch in diameter and interestingly enough…handmade in Connecticut right here in the states. If you’re interested, Enchantments has an on-line store within their website if you can’t make it to the city.
I know it all sounds crazy…but I just love these bits and pieces of cultures from throughout the world. And hey…every little bit of good karma helps, right?
Anyway, if you’re into this kind of stuff…Enchantments on E. 9th in the East Village is a must the next time you’re in the area! Just to poke your head in and look around is a real treat!
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I love your travels and your sense of enquiry and adventure, so anything which adds fun to that is good for me. I’m quite easily spooked in such places so at the very least I would be wearing dark glasses in a hopeless attempt to protect my inner identity
Thanks so much Ducky! LOL…somehow I can picture you with those dark glasses!
Love Love your street art……fantastic capture!
Thanks my dear!
Well, you got me hooked with one of my favorite words ~ enchantments ~ and I think your travel talisman is way perfect for you, also love the idea of the candles. I do believe that I would spend a whole lot of time hanging in this shop! Wonderful, little image, too.
Oh how I thought of you!!!! Oh yeah…you could spend some time in this shop! Thank you!!!
The next time we visit you, Robin, it’s a must to check out this place. You know I love my tarot set but other such things as you’ve mentioned also grab my interest. We have a LOT to learn, especially form the Eastern modalities, many of which have not taken hold in our Western world, to our shame. Keep on sharing these treasures. Thank you.
This store has YOUR NAME written all over it my sweet friend!! And yes…we have so much to learn from so many in this world…thank you so much!
Most interesting post… and looks like you absolutely did find the perfect treasure to add to your collection. Always fun to run across interesting and unexpected little shops like the one you found. Thanks for sharing. XoXo
When I went in I immediately thought of a candle for you…but then I knew you didn’t need it. Keeping my fingers crossed on the offer on your home! So excited for you! LOVE YOU!!
Robin, One of the things I love most about you is your openness – to people, to cultures, to life. Exploring this shop on enchantments sounds fascinating. It’s a glorious thing to see people in their passion – whatever that passion may be. I am so happy for you that you found the perfect addition to your collection – and yes to good karma and safe travels!
I agree with your friend Ginnie above. I’ve been so fixed on only one way of looking things . . . and now as I grow older I find I am much more willing to embrace the powerful mind-body-soul connections . . . more open-minded and much happier.
Oh, how sweet Donna. Thank you!! I must say…I got it straight from my daddy! Yeah for being more open! I think that’s the wonderful thing about AGING! 🙂
Do they have a candle for completing a story and getting it published? Or perhaps one simply to be more focused… I love that first photo! And have now started a list of places to visit next time I’m in New York to see my son, with Enchantments at the top. Maybe I could time my trip with Ginnie… 🙂
Oh…then you must get a candle!! I’m sure they can make up something just for writers! Thanks so much Maery for your visit!!
Nothing wrong with having a talisman. If they work they work and if they don’t work they are still beautiful.
we have to believe in something….
Sometimes it is good to look further than our nose is long (Dutch saying) noting wrong with meeting people who think different. It does not mean we have to be a ‘follower’…
I have a small polished stone in my wallet… from my dad, he always had it in his pocket and would rub it when he was nervous… now it is mine and keep it safe for him.
Love and hugs.
What a lovely remembrance to have from you dad…love that. And yes, we have to believe in something and if we aren’t hurting anyone, then why not! Thank you!!! xoxo
A travel talisman is what I need! I always travel with my red pashmina….to keep me warm and protected ! Always wear a necklace my mother gave me and bracelets my children gave me. All for good karma and safe returns.
Love the things you discover in your city and thanks for taking us along.
Yes, we must fix that! You have to have one!! Always love that you tag along…thank you!!
Mysterious, and beautifully captured!
Thanks Elena!
Definitely my kind of shot methinks you’ve ticked every box for the items you have, the first image is wonderful
Ya think! I think you’re right…but I’m sure there’s more out there I don’t have, lol! Thanks for your visit Shooter!
What does sound crazy? I love the idea of an enchanted travel talisman, it’s beautiful!
Well it’s kinda crazy that I have this collection, ha ha! But I love them! Thank you!