Healing Through Creativity

In the heart of Castle Street, where the hum of creativity seems to pulse through the air, Lavender Rain Emporium stands as a beacon of hope and renewal. JULIE MARIE, the spirited soul behind this haven of art and community, poured her heart into every corner of the space, infusing it with her own journey of healing and growth.

Two years ago, Julie’s life veered into uncharted territory. The dissolution of her seventeen-year marriage left her grappling with emotional turmoil, exacerbated by mental health challenges that led her husband to commit her to a facility. Amidst the chaos, she found solace in the shared narratives of her fellow residents and the therapeutic embrace of art.

“There, I started listening to everyone’s story and dove into art. Art kept us sane,” she says.

She felt called to return to her artistic background as a way to help people. “I thought, ‘How do I get my strength back?’”

From the depths of her struggle emerged a resolute determination to reclaim her purpose. Lavender Rain Emporium wasn’t merely a business venture for Julie; it was a manifestation of her newfound calling.

“I wanted it to be more than a store – a community, a safe space, a place for me to grow, a place for me to share my story, and for other people to share their story – to help and empower them,” she says.

At 906 Castle Street, where she’s surrounded by other female-owned businesses and entrepreneurial spirit, the space became a canvas for Julie’s vision.

Julie has curated an array of workshops and classes including jewelry, candle, and sugar scrub making; paper crafts such as journaling and handmade cards; acrylic and watercolor painting; and fiber arts. Each offering is designed to nurture creativity and self-discovery. “Art is for everyone,” she says.

Julie incorporates meaning into every class. She uses aromatherapy, essential oils, and the overall importance of smell in her candle and sugar scrub classes.

“In our chakra sun catcher class, we go through what all the chakras mean and how they affect your mental and physical well-being,” she says.

Junk journaling is a great way for people to express their creativity through crafting. It can create community, provide mental health benefits, and enhance overall well-being, Julie says.

“We start a session with a quote, a book excerpt, or even a few lines from a podcast as a prompt,” she says. “Some of it can be emotional. I love seeing how humans work and how their minds work. You don’t have to be an expert artist. It’s your interpretation – even if it’s just beautiful to you. It means something to your soul and your will to go on.”

The atmosphere within Lavender Rain Emporium is infused with warmth and hospitality, a reflection of Julie’s ability to create a space where individuals feel welcomed and valued. “There’s no right or wrong way to create art,” she reassures her patrons.

Through her workshops and classes, Julie seeks to instill a sense of empowerment and personal growth in every participant. Conversations flow freely, weaving tales of triumph and resilience, as individuals find strength in shared experiences. “That’s how women flourish – through conversation,” Julie says.

As Lavender Rain Emporium flourishes, so too does Julie’s resolve to make a difference in the lives of others. Success stories and memorable moments become the tapestry of her journey, each one a testament to the profound impact of art and community.

Looking to the future, Julie envisions many possibilities for Lavender Rain Emporium.

“I’m hosting a market at the end of May with music, vendors, and a raffle where proceeds will go towards a community organization. I’d also like to eventually offer a membership program,” she says. “And I’m always looking for more local artists to sell their items or teach a class or both, especially painting and ceramics.”

As Lavender Rain Emporium continues to evolve, Julie remains steadfast in her commitment to fostering creativity, connection, and hope.

“I’m happy for the first time in my life,” she says. “I told myself I was happy, but never felt it. Until now.”

To view more of photographer Aris Harding’s work, go to arisharding.com.

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