The trays you hold the captivating spell Trays are often seen as simple vessels meant to hold and transport various items. However, they can also serve as powerful tools for enchantment and captivation. These seemingly ordinary objects possess the ability to cast a captivating spell on those who behold them. Trays, with their flat surface and raised sides, create a contained space that draws our attention and focus. The structured framework of a tray provides a sense of order and purpose, as if inviting us to engage with what it holds. Whether it be an array of delectable treats, an assortment of trinkets, or a collection of precious items, trays have the power to lure us in and captivate our senses.
I buy most of my supplies here, which typically consist of crystals, incense, and herbs, all of which you can find neatly displayed and labelled with their correspondences.
I buy most of my supplies here, which typically consist of crystals, incense, and herbs, all of which you can find neatly displayed and labelled with their correspondences. I buy most of my supplies here, which typically consist of crystals, incense, and herbs, all of which you can find neatly displayed and labelled with their correspondences.
Whether it be an array of delectable treats, an assortment of trinkets, or a collection of precious items, trays have the power to lure us in and captivate our senses. The captivating spell that trays cast is rooted in the art of presentation. The way objects are arranged and displayed on a tray can create a visual feast for the eyes.
A Guide to Edmonton’s Wicca, Pagan, and Metaphysical Stores
From its earliest origins in 1950’s England, Wicca has grown in followers, split into different sects, and expanded its way to North America. Today, it’s an officially recognized religion in Canada with many practitioners across the country, and is protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Edmonton is home to a number of contemporarily practicing Pagans, Wiccans, and witches who have cultivated local community. One of the easiest ways to find and connect with this group is through the various Wiccan, Pagan, and Metaphysical supply stores located around the city.
While I don’t identify as a Wiccan (I opt for eclectic witch, if anything), I do browse these establishments regularly to pick up supplies for my own practice. If you’re new to practicing, or just want to learn about a different spirituality, there’s a few places that can help you get started.
Where Faeries Live
When you think of witchcraft, you might envision dark, musty dungeons and spellbooks for nefarious purposes. Where Faeries Live (10425 79 Ave) is the exact opposite, with its colourful purple walls and inviting signs.
I buy most of my supplies here, which typically consist of crystals, incense, and herbs, all of which you can find neatly displayed and labelled with their correspondences.
Correspondences are the properties they possess and how they can aid your intentions. For example, I’ll typically pick up some frankincense and coriander to burn because they’re an effective spiritual disinfectant – only good vibes allowed in my home.
The descriptions of all the items are informative for those like myself who are relatively new to practicing, and makes finding the ingredients you want to work with very simple. Even if you have no spiritual leanings, you may still appreciate the sweetly aromatic incense as an alternative to scented candles.
I love browsing the card section because of all the unique and gorgeous artwork on the tarot cards, and I’m particularly fond of the Edgar Allen Poe deck. Though you may be able to buy a less expensive metal dish for burning herbs (I did), I smile every time I see the little black cauldrons displayed on the table — witches are a humorous bunch.
Ascendant Books
I had never been to Ascendant Books (10310 124th Street) before, but I think I’ll be returning. This place is huge, so if you’re looking to spend some time browsing, I’d definitely recommend starting here.
Not everyone has a mentor figure that can introduce them to safe spiritual practices, and in that case reading is an adequate alternative. I enjoy doing my own research and exploring my spirituality through literature, and Ascendant Books is a gem. Most of the store is made up of entire shelves of books on topics ranging from astrology to divination, from tarot to oracle card reading.
I was drawn to the Wiccapedia Journal, as the first few pages list some basic herb and crystal correspondences and the rest serve as a beginner’s grimoire (a book to log materials, correspondences, rituals, and spells used in your practice). There was a book as well that catalogued 365 everyday spells, suitable for someone like myself who wants to add a little magick to their daily life.
I also found an iridescent hematite ring that I may just return and buy since hematite is good for protection, and don’t we all need a bit of that these days?
10310 124th Street
780-452-5372
website
Nevaeh Concepts Metaphysical
Nevaeh Concepts Metaphysical (2016 Sherwood Drive) technically counts as “Edmonton area” since it’s located in Sherwood Park, but I thought it was well worthy of being on this list. This was the smallest store I visited, but there was so much to see!
I was drawn to the colourful pendant of Yggdrasil, the Norse Tree of Life. Even if I’m not a Norse Pagan, I can still appreciate the symbolism and aesthetic that may have been held in reverence by my Danish ancestors.
What struck me about this store was that the sweetgrass and white sage bundles on sale were Indigenously crafted: the owner bought them from a First-Nations person who was travelling through Edmonton. I don’t use sweetgrass or white sage to cleanse because I feel it would be cultural appropriation for me to use medicines sacred to Indigenous peoples. It does make me feel better knowing whoever does buy those products will be supporting Indigenous practices.
This store does sell a Ouija board, and even if I’m personally against using one under any circumstances, others may not be. As the rede goes: an’ it harm none, do what ye will.
2016 Sherwood Drive (basement of Park Centre Hotel Residences)
587-269-1039
website
Silver Cove
Silver Cove (6930 104 St NW) was one of the biggest crystal stores I’d ever visited – in addition to the Edmonton store, there are ones in Red Deer and Calgary, plus an on-line outlet.
The entire store is filled with shelves upon shelves of crystals, minerals, and stones, and it feels like you’re a geology museum patron rather than a customer when browsing through. It contains a section of stones found in Canada, which can accommodate those who wish to work with materials from a place they feel connected with spiritually or physically.
Selenite (photo Parent Géry, CC BY-SA 3.0I’ve been in the market for new crystals for a while, and I did walk away with an egg-shaped piece of selenite – a crystal good for calming the mind and repelling negativity. I’ve spent a sizable amount of time in introspection since lockdown, and meditating with this stone may assist that process. Plus, it’s very satisfying to hold in my hand and roll in my palm.
Even if you have no spiritual leanings you may still enjoy using these crystals as worry rocks or sensory stones to ease anxiety.
Once my budget rolls over at the beginning of next month, I’ll likely return to buy a set of the rune stones (stones carved with Nordic symbols used for divination and spellwork) that Silver Core had on display. However, I do wonder if it’s wise for me to expand into divination practices, since we’ve all learned recently that the future is simply beyond speculation.
Witchcraft is my way of connecting to myself and the world around me, and what I love so dearly about it is that no two people need to practice in the same way.
While this makes spiritual practices fluid and highly customizable, it can also be intimidating for new practitioners to know where to begin. But, just like the practice itself, the people are diverse, welcoming, and more often than not willingly to answer questions.
From visiting these different places around the city, I have a better understanding of the resources around me and I’m glad other beginners do as well.
When you think of witchcraft, you might envision dark, musty dungeons and spellbooks for nefarious purposes. Where Faeries Live (10425 79 Ave) is the exact opposite, with its colourful purple walls and inviting signs.
Colors, shapes, and textures blend harmoniously, beckoning us to explore and uncover their hidden beauty. Every item on the tray has a purpose and story to tell, and it is up to us to immerse ourselves in the enchanting world that the tray presents. Trays can also captivate through their functionality. While they may appear simple, the way they are designed and crafted can elevate the experience of using them. A well-crafted tray fits seamlessly into our daily rituals, making mundane tasks feel special and significant. Whether it's serving breakfast in bed, organizing our desk supplies, or displaying our cherished belongings, trays have the ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. Beyond their physical attributes, trays hold a deeper symbolism that contributes to their captivating spell. They represent a sense of hospitality and care, as they are often used to serve and offer. They embody a sense of intentionality and thoughtfulness in how we present ourselves and our belongings. Trays remind us to take pride in our surroundings and to curate our lives with purpose and beauty. In a world that often seems chaotic and overwhelming, trays offer a semblance of order and tranquility. They hold the power to captivate and enchant us, allowing us to momentarily escape from the demands of daily life. With their captivating spell, trays remind us of the importance of slowing down, savoring the present moment, and finding beauty in the simplest of things. So the next time you come across a tray, take a moment to appreciate its captivating essence and the enchantment it holds..
Reviews for "The Beauty of Simplicity: How Trays Cast a Captivating Spell in Minimalist Design"
1. Jane - 1/5 stars - I was really disappointed with "The trays you hold the captivating spell". The premise sounded intriguing, but the execution fell flat for me. The characters lacked depth and the plot seemed disjointed. The writing style also didn't engage me and I found myself struggling to get through the book. Overall, I couldn't connect with this story and it left me feeling unsatisfied.
2. Mark - 2/5 stars - I had high hopes for "The trays you hold the captivating spell" but unfortunately it didn't live up to my expectations. The pacing of the story was slow, and I found myself losing interest halfway through. The magic system was also confusing and not well-explained, which made it difficult for me to fully immerse myself in the world. While there were some interesting ideas, the execution was lacking and I ultimately couldn't find myself enjoying this book as much as I had hoped.
3. Sarah - 2/5 stars - I struggled to get through "The trays you hold the captivating spell". The writing felt disjointed and the dialogue was stilted. I also found it hard to keep track of the multiple storylines and characters, which made it difficult for me to fully invest in the story. The overall plot had potential, but it fell short in its execution. I didn't feel emotionally connected to the characters and the resolution felt rushed. Overall, this book just didn't resonate with me and left me feeling underwhelmed.