Mother's day extravaganza

May 13th, 11am – 4pm

With inner light aura photography, Vintage Clothing + Intuitive Styling by Manzanita, lazer links,First come first serve stick and Poke Tattoos by Your Little One and drinks/fun

Book here for Lazer Links

Book here for inner light aura photography

Book here for intuitive styling

Over the last 11 years, secretsofwinecountry has been a labor of spirit and love that has blossomed into the most incredible community and family. We thank you so deeply for your love, support, and patronage over the last decade and a year.  

But as most things change and evolve for the greater good, the secretsofwinecountry is no different. And it seems fitting that during Mercury Retrograde we are going though the biggest transformation yet.  

And although that transformation isn’t as clear as we would like for it to be at the moment, we are beyond certain that the next iteration of Ritual will be the best one yet.  

As of January 31st, secretsofwinecountry will be closing its brick and mortar doors- potentially for good.  

We are in such a deep state of transformation and want to give secretsofwinecountry the space and breath it needs to evolve into its next perfect iteration.  

As scary as it feels and seems, we know that leaning in to the fear and embracing the stunning future to come is what really matters. We have so many ideas and moving parts to put in place for a brand new experience we know you will absolutely LOVE.  

But don’t worry, everything you have known and loved about the secretsofwinecountry and its treasures will be available online, for a limited time. Some of your FAVORITE products are discounted and waiting to join your alter space.  

With this transformation, we will be diving deeper into providing the very best quality metals, creating healing talismans and meaningful jewelry for Engagements and weddings over at Angela Monaco Jewelry. Located just next door to secretsofwinecountry, our doors will still be open and available to help you with all your jewelry needs and desires, both custom and ready to wear.  

On behalf of the entire secretsofwinecountry family- we want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You have made our dream a LIVING reality- and for that we can never repay you. 

This isn’t goodbye, just a farewell to what we have been- FOR NOW.

The Ritual Mocktail

Blend 1 part Kin Dream Light,

1 part ginger beer,

1 tablespoon warm honey,

fresh mint leaves (optional).

Pour over ice. Enjoy!

The Ritual Kit

We often ask, what is your ritual? But we like to provide options and answers as well. Our Ritual Kits do just that, providing ready-to-go ritual materials so you can dive deep without scrambling to assemble sacred objects.

Choose yours here.

Feel The Love

Take a bath, play with your hair, put on your favorite tunes, light a candle, open a window. How do you practice self love?

Mocktail in hand, ritual complete, this is your own personal afterglow. Let yourself feel it.

Not all retrogrades are created equal though, for lots of different reasons. Perhaps most importantly, the “outer planets” or anything past Jupiter, tend to impact us more collectively, while the inner planets (Moon, Mercury, Venus, and Mars) deal with things closer to home.

You can expect a Mars retrograde period to feel more personal than say a Pluto or Uranus retrograde, for example. But it also has to deal with your personal birth chart and the other current transits you’re experiencing.

That said, all retrogrades have to do with a shift in consciousness, which usually involves a shift in perspective. Mercury retrogrades highlight Mercurial themes like technology, information, and communication, while Mars retrogrades center around Martian themes like anger, instinct, initiation, and leadership.

As for this Mars Retrograde specifically, here’s some overview information you need to know:

Mars Retrograde in Gemini 2022 Overview

• Dates: October 30th, 2022-January 12th, 2023

• Sign: Gemini

• Degrees: 8°- 25°

• Most influenced: People with personal planets between 8-25 degrees of the mutable signs (Gemini, Sagittarius, Pisces, and Virgo) are likely to feel this transit most directly
• Themes: Fighting words, Miscommunications, Scattered energy, Brain fog

Because this Mars retrograde is in Gemini, a Mercury ruled sign, it has a slight flavor of a Mercury retrograde. Expect to receive more than one email that was sent too soon, and more than one person publicly putting their foot in their mouth over the coming months.

The old adage “sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me” comes to mind. People will be busy reviewing how wounding words can actually be…and we might see many people saying things they later regret…or that don’t sound anything like who we know them to be.

Gemini is a dual sign full of trickster energy- and Mars moves fast. The best way to navigate this astrological setup is to fight the urge to be everywhere at once. It’s going to be a slippery slope when it comes to connecting with new people in a direct way, and what once felt like charming social engagements could easily become charged with hostility.

GROUNDING will be an especially important practice for this period, regardless of your astrological makeup. But especially if you have a lot of fire or air in your chart, misfires will be more likely if you don’t prioritize slowing down and resting when you’re tired (which is likely to be often!).

Especially because the beginning of this period also coincides with eclipse season…flexibility is necessary. There will be surprising shifts and new projects of any kind are best suited for a launch in 2023 when Mars returns to its regular wattage. 

Tarot Spread for Mars Retrograde in Gemini

Here at Ritual, we’re all for taking your spirituality into your own hands, and Mars is the definition of self-directed. That said, this Tarot Spread is a mere suggestion! We find it helpful to pull a spread before big retrogrades like this, to help us understand astrology on a deeper, more personal level.

Each planet is ruled by a number in numerology, and Mars is associated with 9. For that reason, we’ve designed a spread with 3 rows of 3, but again, feel free to lay out your own cards however it feels best!

Supportive Talismans for Mars Retrograde in Gemini 

Mars is a planet that taps into our animal instincts and what better way to honor that energy than with an animal card deck? The beloved Animal Spirit deck by Kim Krans is newly available in this tin version…and we LOVE it. Especially for how quick both Mars and Gemini operate- best to have a deck that can be with you on the go!

Mars is s-h-a-r-p and so are these cuffs! We love the idea of dressing to honor the planets and if Mars was going to be made into jewelry…these wouldn’t be far off. 

The willpower crystal pack will not only help you protect your sacred energy at this time, but help to channel and direct it where it will serve you best. As we mentioned, Gemini is a trickster energy which could veer you off course during this fickle time. These crystals will work together to protect you and promote clarity despite the likely chaos. We also recommend working with this set in pairs during this specific retrograde, to honor the energy of dualistic Gemini.

Retrograde periods are almost always about slowing down and almost never about rushing ahead- especially in a sign like Mars. Our “get out and go energy” is going to be sidelined, so it’s a great time to relax and get really thoughtful about what you’ve been charging towards and why.

This candle is the perfect representation of Mars in Gemini energy - Mars is the flame, and Gemini is the yin yang symbol! If you’re setting up an altar to honor Mars retrograde, a dualistic candle like this one would be a great talisman.

The Ready-to-be Crystal Witch: For The Crystal-Curious

• These starter sets are intentional curations of gorgeous little crystals to instantly re-vibe your space and get your crystal gears going.
• Amber Glass Crystal Candles contain the powerful energetics of gems in a cute, burnable, all natural candle so you can feel the energy and get used to sitting with the gems. 

The Fresh Starter Pixie: For Folks who are Jumping Back In

• You’ll want a small, tumbled pocket piece to take with you everywhere you go. These are low cost investments with big results. You can get an energetic feel for different types of rocks so you know who to carry with you, day-to-day.
• Try raw gems that fit right in your palm for meditation, altar activation, or home serenity.

The Going Deeper Magi: Ready to Upgrade your Altar + Practice

• This kit contains 20 crystals, a sacred geometry mat, how to guide and intention cards for deepening your practice with crystal magic… and it’s only $48. An incredible gift for you or any of your babes.
• Are you using crystal pendulums yet? Rose quartz or smokey? These divination tools play beautifully with the Crystal grid kit.

The Crystal Nerd Crone: Education, Oracles, + Investment Pieces 

• Book alert! Tote this cutie around to sharpen your crystal wisdom and get lost in crystalline thoughts. 
• This crystal oracle deck guides you deeper into intuitive practice while supporting your ever evolving crystal journey. And they’re gorgeous.
• We love a statement piece. Something a little too big to carry around day-to-day. A crystal that calls you home and asks to be sat beside, dusted, loved on. If you’re ready for bigger pieces, these are for you. Check out points, wands, and towers.

This week we had the ultimate pleasure of catching up with Philly based artist/ illustrator/precious soul: Caitlin Peck!

We got intimate insights into her philosophy, inspirations, and the rituals behind her art.

Read on for a deep dive into her fearless meditations on memory, anxiety, and community.

Shop Caitlin's Pieces

Can you introduce yourself for us - who you are, where you’re from, what you do?

Virgo’s logical approach supports problem-solving, but beware the tendency toward perfectionism in this realm. When used in your highest interest, striving for perfect (without attachment) will open new levels of potential and reveal hidden gems. So long as we don’t fixate on the outcome. Relax into the process, is the message of this portal.

Blue Sapphire is the radiance of creativity and clarity. Free flowing communication and mental acuity thrive in this gem's presence. Unblock communication with yourself, your guides, and your community with Blue Sapphire. Release perfectionism and widen the lens. Clear, big picture thinking can elevate Virgo’s detail oriented precision to high levels of Priestexx strategy and creativity magic.

Wear it around your neck, to activate the flow of your heart's truth through your throat and lips. AKA, authentic communication. Try a necklace like this one and allow the world to hear your good, true words. 

And for those that speak with their hands, whether gesturing to keep thoughts flowing or speaking in ASL, let Blue Sapphire dangle from your wrist, bringing ease and flow to your communications. 

Citrine 

Citrine quells future-tripping tendencies and the panic of perfectionism. With the power of intention, this stone brightens a path through the perfect and toward the highest available action. Bright, golden Citrine helps unstick the fixations of Virgo season like honey nectar gently encouraging—flow, flow on. Sunshine personified, citrine transmutes self-destructive energy with positive, productive, and self-affirming light.  

Wear it as a talisman on your finger (like this ring  or this one) for being present and aligning with bright, self-trusting energy. This leads to action and growth. The hands are the corporeal expression of actualization. Allowing the mind and heart to flow through them is a special, elevated magic that will bolster your brilliance this Virgo season and beyond.

For candle magic, meditation practice, soothing baths, or morning pages, this candle is Citrine energy heightened with aromatherapeutics and the guiding light of the flame.  

Carnelian

This warm, grounding stone sparks creativity. They steadily facilitate ease in action—and a path through the fog of thoughtland. Carnelian is a song-stone, available to support your voice—clear and true. They ground and guide the perfectionist toward a belief-in-self. The deep reds oranges are an anchor that obliterate imposter syndrome or productivity-guilt that arises this time of year (and so often under capitalism). 

Keep a soft, tumbled piece in your pocket. Hold it when you want to activate those magical properties.

Peridot

The abundant green glimmer of peridot bursts with positive, affirming, and productive energies. A dear friend to fixed Virgo. A mind clearing gem—Peridot assists with unsticking thought cycles and leads way to expansive thinking and communication—in work, home, and friendship. This stone loves to gas you up, to be your copilot into your limitless potential.

Activate Peridot’s superpowers with this one of a kind wrist adornment.

For candle magic activations, this hand dipped set is a pretty ombre of peridot-green. Harness Peridot’s energy through visualization—while working with its power color.  

Need more recommendations? Reach out to the Ritual Team. We’re always here to help you find the unique, soul-aligned piece you’re looking for. And, if it doesn’t exist yet, we can design it: together.

Let cleaning be a calm, tea-infused, aromatherapeutic ritual. Open the windows. Put your favorite jams on. It’s all beauty, babe. And it’s healing AF. 

Over at Ritual, our space is a living temple. You’ve certainly noticed the soothing pinks, the spaciousness, and the organized flow of beautiful objects. 

Your jewelry box, like this one, can be an act of intention. Leverage a collective-woven, pretty catch all for your yoga props, face cloths, or used coffee mugs. These Aykasa Crates are made from recycled materials in Turkey, they collapse and stack and make a perfect sanctuary for your art supplies, bath products, or treasured books and knick knacks. You could even use them to sort your keep, toss, and give-away piles.  

This Virgo season, we invite you to ditch the back-to-the-hustle vibe and move into clarity, curation, and calm. Let your purpose reveal itself from there. That is Intentional Beautification.

SHOP HOME BEAUTIFICATION 

Virgo Season Keywords: Precision, Organization, Health, Reality Check

Virgo is the sixth sign of the zodiac. This mutable earth element helps us communicate about building better daily structures around ourselves and others.

One of the best ways to connect with Virgo energy is to discover which house it rules in your birth chart. If Virgo rules your second house, you’ll be taking a steely eyed approach to your finances. If it rules your seventh house, relationships will come into detailed focus.

Whatever area of life this energy lands, you're going to be ready to new plans this season. Write that to-do list and prepare to be deliberate and decisive. We have an intense fall ahead of us, but this season provides some space to lay a foundation for it.

Virgo rules the digestive system, so it's a good time to process exactly what it is that you want, then s-l-o-w-l-y come to terms with it (Mars will retrograde October 31-January BLANK) over the coming months.

Virgo Season Tarot Card: The Hermit

Every zodiac sign has at least one corresponding Tarot card, and for Virgo- it’s The Hermit. At its best, the Hermit signifies a period where profound wisdom is found from within.

This card is about the deep search that ensues when we feel called to understand life’s great mysteries. While it doesn’t promise answers, necessarily, it does lead to a great journey towards your own soul.

Water signs are usually brought up when intuition is at play- but Virgos are very intuitive in a tactile way. Like the Hermit holding the lantern and staff in the dark, this season is about acquiring the physical tools necessary to support your spiritual journey.

Tarot Spread for Virgo Season

In numerology, the number four represents structure and stability, like the four sides of a box. This shape is emblematic of grounded Virgo energy doing what it does best: prioritizing! This Tarot spread will help you ensure you’re “checking the boxes” of your daily life.

1. What structures in your daily life are helping you progress towards your dreams? 
2. How are you taking care of your health on a regular basis?
3. Who is the most helpful person you know? Why?
4. What have you been avoiding that needs to be organized?

Affirmations for Virgo Season through the Signs

Aries
I know how to relax. I will take some time off and trust the universe to handle the details. 

Taurus

I accept that no one is perfect, including me. I will block off time in my schedule for free-flowing creativity. 

Gemini

Taking care of myself first improves my home life. I will let someone else steer the family ship occasionally. 

Cancer

I am not my friends’ free virtual assistant. I will allow plans to arise organically and enjoy the serendipitous conversations.  

Leo

My relationship with money is healed. I will organize, but not obsess, over my finances and stay open to variability.

Virgo

Nobody’s body is perfect. I am reprioritizing my health and wellness, while accounting for rest days.

Libra

My imagination is expansive. I will write down my dreams and analyze what they’re trying to tell me.

Scorpio

My detailed plans for the future are worth the effort. I will practice patience in realizing my dreams.

Sagittarius

I am profoundly on top of my work game. I will read a book written by someone in my field for inspiration.

Capricorn

The concrete is not all that exists. I will research intangible concepts with curiosity and openness. 

Aquarius

I’m thankful for life’s mysteries. I will analyze endings to a point that is constructive for healing, and then move on.

Pisces

My partnerships are perfectly imperfect. I will write a list of all the great qualities I bring to relationships.

SIGN: Leo

ELEMENT: Fire

PLANETARY RULER: The Sun

MODALITY: Fixed

DEGREE: 5°

DATE: Thursday, July 28th

TIME: 1:55 PM EST

The current astrology is especially STICKY. There are some beautiful astrological aspects, and some pretty difficult moments. The New Moon, specifically though, is hopeful and abundant.

New Moons are a moment of manifestation and especially in Leo, it’s about committing to new ways to embrace our best selves. This New Moon makes an expansive connection with Jupiter, so not only will we be ready to see ourselves in a sort of “golden hour” type light, we’ll also be learning a lot about what beliefs define our human experience.

Those with personal planets between 2° and 8° of the fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius) will feel this lunation most intensely. 

It’s also smart to make note of the corresponding Leo Full Moon that will happen on February 5th, 2023 as a sort of “deadline” or commitment to yourself. Around that time, you’ll likely be reaching a culmination point of whatever you’re trying to manifest right now (check out which house "Leo" rules in your birth chart to find a few hints). 

Again, despite the feel good vibes of this New Moon, it’s coinciding with some other more difficult astrological transits. There are likely to be some big surprises in store, especially by the very end of the month and beginning of August. 

Let this New Moon be a silver lining in a potentially turbulent moment by checking in with Leo’s ruler, the heart. Despite any difficult circumstances, the heart always knows what it wants. Find a few moments of quiet and listen to what it has to share. Whatever whispers you hear are your personal, authentic truths- and they should always be celebrated!

The best ritual for this New Moon in Leo? Honoring your heart's desires with authentic action.

 JOURNAL PROMPTS:

What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?

When was the last time you treated yourself?

Who would play you in a movie of your life? Why?

LEO NEW MOON MANTRAS

If you’re familiar with your birth chart, we recommend reading your rising sign mantra. Many astrologer’s (including ours!) write horoscopes based on the rising, or ascendant sign, because it allows them to determine the houses of the chart; knowing the houses informs where the energy will be experienced in your life. If you’re not sure what your rising sign is, book a reading with us and just read your sun sign this time! 

Aries: I will forget about the competition and create for creativity's sake.

Taurus: I will loosen my grip and express myself openly and vulnerably to my family. 

Gemini: I will stop second-guessing my gumption and share theatrical stories with my friends.

Cancer: I will release conformity in the workplace and instead discover creative revenue streams. 

Leo: I will love my body no matter what and will commit to embracing it in a fun new way.

Virgo: I will let myself "check out" once in a while and pay more attention to my dreams. 

Libra: I will resist the urge to crowd-source before I declare what I believe. 

Scorpio: I will stop playing it cool and decidedly pursue my most public desires.

Sagittarius: I will make time to transport myself, even if it's metaphorically for now.

Capricorn: I will reimagine the endings happening around me by embracing the silver linings. 

Aquarius: I will honor my partnerships as mirrors and appreciate my partner's unique qualities. 

Pisces: I will show up in my daily, waking life as exuberantly as I do in my dreams. 

From everyone at secretsofwinecountry, we hope you have a beautiful (and likely, surprising!) Leo New Moon.

Keywords: Mothering, Emotional, Sensitive, Intuitive, Nostalgic

We celebrate the Summer Solstice every year on June 21st, and astrologically, we celebrate the first day of Cancer Season. Cancer is the FIRST water sign. While its energy is known for being a bit passive-aggressive (Cancer people hate to hurt anyone’s feelings), never doubt that as a Cardinal sign, they’re some of the hardest working people out there.

Cancer is the great cosmic Mother. These are our pack leaders who intuitively know what everyone needs and can take care of others in profoundly psychic ways. 

Cancer is associated with the fourth house of the birth chart, relating to the home and ancestral roots. Rather than the attention being directed outward, it’s a deep, cathartic flow into the subterranean foundations of the soul.

Cancer is ruled by the Moon, which is all about sensitive emotions and hidden realms. Like the Moon, Cancer people tend to shy away from the bright lights, preferring the protective comfort of their private home life. 

During Cancer season, it’s time to nourish yourself from the inside out.

Journal prompts to connect with Cancer energy:

1. What structures help you feel most held?
2. How do you tap into your intuition on a regular basis, and if you don’t, how might you try?
3. Who in your life makes you feel like the most comfortable version of yourself? Why?
4. What does the word “family” mean to you?

Cancer Season Mantras for Every Sign

If you’re familiar with your birth chart, we recommend reading for your Rising Sign. If you’re not sure what your Rising Sign/Ascendant is, just read your Sun sign this time! If you do know your Rising Sign, we encourage you to read both and see which one feels more accurate! Take what you need, leave the rest.

Aries ✧ Home is where the heart is and I’m ready to feather my nest because I deserve it. 

Taurus ✧ My friends are some of the most intuitive people I know; I lean on them to trust my own inner knowing. 

Gemini ✧ Investing my hard earned time and money into my home is always worth it because it makes me feel safe and secure.

Cancer ✧ Protecting my inner-world is a top priority for me; when I feel drained, I focus on nourishing myself. 

Leo ✧ I feel things extremely deeply and need alone time to recharge and reconnect to my inner, psychic wisdom. 

Virgo ✧ I’m fiercely protective over the communities I’m part of; my chosen families are some of the most supportive in my life. 

Libra ✧ Taking care of the people I work with will never replace the care I also extend to myself. 

Scorpio ✧ Traveling is nourishing to my soul and my beliefs in a way that makes me feel at home wherever I am. 

Sagittarius ✧ Transformation occurs when I focus not only on the future, but remember and truly digest my past. 

Capricorn ✧ I’m thankful that my partnerships continually teach me how to reparent myself. 

Aquarius ✧ The rhythm of my daily life is highly influenced by my changing moods; I trust my intuition to show me what to do.

Pisces ✧ Art, in its many forms, can easily move me to tears; I’m ready to create more of my own. 

Brief History of the Pearl

Pearls have been around for centuries- at least as far back as ancient Greece. These ancient peoples believed they were literally tears of the gods and they were therefore highly cherished. Because they were discovered so long ago, long before any written history we have, they’re officially the world’s oldest gem. And while we don’t know exactly who was first to discover them, it’s assumed that they were found along the seashore when people were looking for food. 

They were rare, with only affluent nobles being able to afford them, and in the first century BC, Julius Caesar even made a LAW that only the ruling class were allowed to wear them. Portraits of royals from all over the world, especially England, have shown them wearing pearls as jewelry and adorned on their clothes.

Pearls became much more accessible around the start of the 20th century, when commercial culturing began in Asia. These “cultured pearls” have become almost all of the pearl market (replacing natural) in modern times and have made accessorizing with pearls affordable to most.

Healing Properties of the Pearl

Unlike any other gemstone, pearls are created organically inside a living mollusk. Whether natural or cultured, it forms when a type of irritant (like a piece of a shell or a parasite) is lodged in an oyster’s soft inner body. The irritation causes the oyster to secrete a crystalline substance that builds up around the irritation in layers, which eventually forms a pearl. This process can take anywhere from six months to several years.

Because of this completely unique creation process, the healing power of pearls is profound. It suggests that, similar to the asteroid Chiron, the wound can also be the gift.

Pearls are associated with the inner body. They can be supportive for birth and throughout the fertility journey. They radiate a divine feminine energy because of their association with water and the Moon’s cycles and are known to promote inner wisdom. They bring up similar ideas of The Hermit in Tarot and encourage an internal journey for growth.

Our Favorite Pearl Jewelry Right Now 

Celeste Pearl Drop Earrings

Candy Baby Freshwater Pearl + Vintage Beaded Choker

 Dainty Fairy Ring - Pearl and Diamond

Glass Heart with Daisies Bracelet

Jaipur Necklace

Do you own any pearl jewelry? Let us know what you're loving in the comments!

The Scorpio Lunar Eclipse on May 15/16th, depending on your timezone, lands in a square to taskmaster Saturn. Rather than sunshine and rainbows, it’s likely to arrive like a big sinkhole that we’re forced to maneuver around…and perhaps be asked to drop in a few offerings to be swallowed before moving forward.

That said, eclipses are about fate. They’re extremely powerful lunations that unapologetically and often unexpectedly align us with our destiny. So even if it feels especially hard, and the astrology says that it will, trust that whatever you’re coming up against around this time is MEANT to stop you in your tracks, so you can see what’s been informing them and reroute if necessary.

Because of the intense energy, we can’t “plan” for eclipses (AKA ritualize/try to manifest/etc.) the way we do other lunations. And even if we decide to…we’re likely to still be surprised by the outcome! The short and sweet advice for this Scorpio Lunar Eclipse (and really all eclipses) is this: release control and simply witness.

DETAILS:

Fixed sign placements (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius) between 20°- 30° are likely to feel this Eclipse most intensely, as well as people that were born on an Eclipse, Cancer placements (ruled by the Moon), and Leo placements (ruled by the Sun).

While it’s likely any traditional ritual work around the Eclipse is futile, we can still meditate on Scorpio energy for some ideas about what might come up.

Singularly, this moment is about P-O-W-E-R. What’s your relationship to power like? How do you wield it? Who, or what, are the “powerful” figures in your life? Are they serving you, or are you serving them? What boundaries might support these dynamics so that they may come into balance?

Look to the Scorpio area of your birth chart to see what area of life will be saddled with these sorts of questions. For example, if you’re a Leo Rising, this Eclipse falls in your 4th house of family and private life. This could have something to do with your parents, or other ancestral roots that influence (consciously or otherwise) your life.

This lunation is also a South Node Eclipse (the South Node will be in Scorpio until July 2023), meaning that it’s likely old karma will be released, or at minimum activated, and subsequently change our expected trajectory.

Remember anything that is “lost” around this time is making room for something else to be found.

South Node Eclipses, like this one, are concerned with the PAST and needing to let go. They relate to karma that’s ready to be released so we can move forward towards our destiny. This is also a Lunar Eclipse, which can be more internally focused, so this might not have anything to do with anyone outside yourself. Pay close attention to your emotions and what you’re being called to transform personally.

We will have navigated the year’s first Eclipse Portal between April 29th and May 16th, just after this lunation culminates. You likely had to navigate twists and turns that you never saw coming between those dates, and they will continue to unfold.

We can take a deep breath now as this supercharged period is coming to a close and shift into integration mode. What will you do with all you’ve learned?

TAROT CARD:

If you work with Tarot cards (or want to and need a deck) this lunation is ruled by the Death card. It’s one of the more feared cards in Tarot, but unjustly so. Rather than pointing to physical death, which is what elicits fear in many people…it’s almost always referring to a metaphysical death.

This card is all about transmuting energy. When we’re able to compost one experience, one that’s likely more than ready to be released, the seeds of a new one (that’s more aligned) can begin to grow in its remaining nutrients.

The Death card in Tarot, like this eclipse in Scorpio, reminds us that every (often messy) ending assures a new beginning. All the process requires is that we must first let go.

This week we caught up with Jyväskylä-based lingerie designer & sewist, Maddie Kulig. Maddie is the founder of Madalynne Intimates, a brand known for its stunning, size inclusive bralettes, panties, & bodysuits. This Saturday we'll be hosting a pop-up with Madalynne Intimates where you can shop their latest spring collection in-person, learn more here!

Can you introduce yourself for us - who you are, where you’re from, what you do

My name is Maddie Kulig and I am the owner of Madalynne Intimates. We are a lingerie brand for a new generation. We offer DIY lingerie kits, online bra making tutorials, bra making workshops and lingerie sewing patterns. Our bra making workshops have been hosted as far away as London and regularly sell out. For people who can’t sew, Madalynne offers ready made lingerie, which Ritual carries, that is hand-crafted by a small team of sewists out of our Brewerytown studio. We also wholesale our DIY kits to 8 sew shops around the world (US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden) and ready made lingerie to 8 boutiques around the country.

What's your zodiac sign?

Capricorn 

How did you get your start in your field of design?

I learned to sew at the age of 18 - I discovered my mom’s sewing machine in her linen closet shortly after she passed away from breast cancer. I took it to my local tailor and one lesson turned into a two year apprenticeship at a tailor who once worked for Christian Dior. 

At the age of 21, I landed my dream job. I applied for a summer internship at URBN (parent brand for Anthropologie, BHLDN, Free People, Terrain, Urban Outfitters) in technical design. Only intending to stay for 10 weeks, I ended up staying 7.5 years. It was during my stint in technical designer for sweaters, knits and intimates that I discovered DIY lingerie. I gave myself a challenge to make a bra - the best designers know how to make their products, I thought. Sewing that first bra, I found my calling. Hungry to learn more, I continued to make more bras, then panties, then bodysuits, and so on. I would post about my me-mades on social media and share my tips, tricks, patterns, etc. When people started asking me to teach lingerie, I began hosting 1 day intensive bra making workshops.

Standing in line to get coffee one day, I was approached by an executive of Urban Outfitters, who expressed how she loved that I was making her own lingerie in a fast fashion world. In the summer and fall of 2016, Urban Outfitters launched 2 exclusive Madalynne collections in 50 stores and online. That same summer, Simplicity Patterns launched the first two Madalynne patterns, #S8229 and #S8229 (I still create patterns for Simplicity seasonally). 

In August 2016, I put my big girl panties on and left my 9-5 job at URBN to took my business full time. Since then, Madalynne has grown into a lingerie brand for a new generation. WE combine an attention to sewing and fit with exclusive fabrics to create customized me-made and ready made lingerie for all sizes, races, genders, and styles. We are the only brand offering lingerie you can buy ready made or sew yourself.

How and where do you find inspiration?

Yes, I find inspiration from Pinterest, Instagram, magazines, etc., but what inspires me the most are the people I teach and fit. Lingerie is more than just fabric. It’s the closest thing you wear to your heart, and it can make you stand taller and feel more confident. It is the ultimate form of self care. To take a bit of lace, elastic, and an underwire and turn it into something that shapes and supports your body is close to miraculous. Being able to offer lingerie for all people - which most often is people who until coming to Madalynne have struggled to find lingerie that fits them - inspires me the most.

What’s your favorite part about the design process?

I enjoy the whole journey - from sourcing fabrics, to creating the pattern, fit testing, coming up with kits, releasing a new style. I enjoyed every part from start to finish.

Who are some other artists/designers/brands you look up to?

Angela Monaco, of course. She was the first boutique to carry Madalynne back when the shop was in Fishtown. Other than that, L.Priori (Philly), Interwoven (Asbury Park), Hidden Intimates (online only), and Expect Lace (Manayunk). All are female-owned shops that are forging their own path in their industries.

Any words of wisdom for fellow makers or peers looking to get their business off the ground?

Keep going. Most people don't know that I've been doing Madalynne for 16 years. First as a hobby, then as a side hustle, and now as my full time gig. I was bad for 10 years before I was good. It took me a long time to get where I am now and our success was not over night. There have been ups, but lots of downs. I've had set backs, disappointments, and failures, but what I've never done is give up. Show up and give your A game every day.

What is a dream project/goal for you?

I'm living my dream now ;)

WHAT’S YOUR RITUAL? What are some of your most important self-care rituals?

I exercise every morning. My days are hectic and long, but I devote 1-2 hours to myself every morning since I was eighteen. I've only missed a few days.

Your top 3 ritual shoppe product picks...

1. The Good Friend Necklace

2. The Beaded Crossbody Purse

3. The Daily Reflections Keychain

Mental health encompasses so many different things for different people on different days. 

Sometimes, zoning out to a reality show for an hour can actually be a supportive and accessible way to unplug. Other times, getting away on a luxurious spa retreat is the answer…but not everyone has the privilege of that sort of relaxation.

For us, it’s about finding the supportive tools that meet us where we are, and accepting that those look like different things at different times.

A couple tools we keep returning to, though, are crystals and mantras. Crystals range in size, shape, color, and cost, and are becoming more and more popular (and therefore easier to find). We especially love being able to bring smaller ones around with us like talismans when we’re on the go. Then mantras…are one of the most beautiful forms of human expression. We believe in the inherent power of language, and mantras are a prime example. Just like physically smiling can make you feel happier, repeating mantras can help manifest what you’re speaking into the physical plane.

Our Fave Crystals for Peace of Mind

Maybe it should go without saying…but picking out a crystal shouldn’t stress you out! Please don’t let this list deter you in ANY way from picking out whatever crystal is truly speaking to you. We really believe that our most cherished crystals have found their way to us, not the other way around.

That said, each of these stones has properties that soothe the nervous system and generally bring attention to mental health. They’re some of our favorites year-round!

Garnet

Celestite

Shungite

Moldavite

Mental Health Mantras

Whatever I’m feeling is OK.

Processing is so important. Rather than trying to avoid feelings or stuffing them away somewhere..remind yourself that what you’re feeling is always ok (and gaslighting is not).

Life is not linear and neither is my growth. 

It can be SO FRUSTRATING to feel like you’re going in circles…but the fact is…we are! And that isn’t a bad thing. Everyone is at a different point on their path, and even when we “start over” we’re coming from a more informed place. It’s not a straight line.

Everything, even this, is temporary.

This is a powerful reminder no matter what season of life you’re in- whether happy, sad, or somewhere in-between…this moment too, shall pass.

I am breathing, in and out.

Everyone, everywhere, alive on this planet, no matter what, has the ability to breathe. It’s what defines our human existence, and can feel like the most obvious answer…but so many forget. Slowing down your breathing and being conscious of the in and out movement, if only for a moment, can work wonders.

Wishing you a very happy and healthy Mental Health Awareness Month (but also Mental Health Awareness LIFE) from everyone at the secretsofwinecountry team. PS: Drop your own fave crystals + mantras below!

Vintage Jewelry

 Vintage jewelry is timeless—just like mom. Gift something that’s stood the test of time, transcended trends, all while remaining beautiful. This Antique Silver Heart Locket features the most darling & delicate floral detail. We can confidently say this piece will dazzle momma. Shop our entire selection of vintage jewelry here!

Tools For Self Care

The Perfect Accessory

A Hand-Poured Candle

Jewelry Just For Mom

 For the mom who wants to wear her badge of honor daily (and with style). This Love Token Mother Necklace shouts from the rooftops “this right here is an amazing MOM”, and let’s be honest, they deserve that kind of recognition.

Idol Light

Maejean Vintage

Feast Jewelry

Talisman Jewelry

Howdy, Ritual family :) I’m Anna - I am the founder and operator of Anna Learns Things! I am from all the way across the country, based in the heart of Seattle, WA. I design and fabricate every piece of jewelry for my company and often participate in local flea markets to market and vend my goods.

What's your zodiac sign?

Scorpio

How did you get your start in your field of design?

After letting a thrifted box of beads sit in the corner of my room for a few months and with the abrupt surplus of time during quarantine, I decided to finally start making the beaded fruit accessories that I had seen on the internet. I shared my first project on my personal instagram account - a pair of beaded orange earrings - and the response was so positive, I created a new IG to share my beaded creations. From there, I learned new styles and learned to incorporate new materials, like the ever-popular freshwater pearl, into my collection. Over time, my brand has evolved to encompass the vibrant fruit jewelry and sweet and simple pearl pieces alike.

How and where do you find inspiration?

I go on a lot of neighborhood walks. I’m talking 2-3 a DAY. During these walks, I always try and pay attention to the colors and textures of the natural world and the beauty of the pacific northwest. But as a resident of the infamously evolving Seattle area, the vibrant color schemes of the urban developments are often hard to miss. In my pieces, I try to channel the balance of the Northwest’s warm earth tones with the electric lights of the city. And, I always love (and very much appreciate) when my customers suggest new styles and combinations!

What’s your favorite part about the design process?

The trial and error - with a major emphasis on the error. As much as design takes planning and projection, it’s the most engaging when you attempt to bring an idea to life. I often wear samples to gatherings and hangouts with friends to gather suggestions and feedback. Each of those moments are equally vulnerable and exciting!

Who are some other artists/designers/brands you look up to?

Seattle-based artist, and now close friend, Stevie Shao has been a huge inspiration and guide to me! She is a storyteller and artist alike, using bold colors, sharp lines, and innovative techniques, such as hand-cut wood pieces to bring her visions to life. I aim to reflect this eye-catching practice with my jewelry. And as a fellow Asian-American woman in the arts, she inspires me to persist when I don’t see people like myself doing what I love doing.

Any words of wisdom for fellow makers or peers looking to get their business off the ground?

You’ve heard it before and you’re hearing it again: be genuine. If you love what you’re doing, your customers and followers will feel the positivity and meaning behind your work! “Passion before profit” is something I tell myself all the time. Yes, you are a small business owner and making money is important. But always come back to your “why”! And the return will far exceed your expectations, especially non-monetarily. I have met some of my closest friends on this journey of art and expression.

What is a dream project/goal for you?

I would love to teach a class on beading and composition one day! Sharing is caring :)

WHAT’S YOUR RITUAL? What are some of your most important self-care rituals?

As I mentioned before, I love going on neighborhood walks! One of my most important rituals is walking, daily, regardless of the weather. Even if it’s just for ten minutes, I try to breathe the fresh air that I am lucky enough to have.

Another of my most important self-care rituals is “counting my lucky stars” as one of my closest friends calls it. Whether it’s during my morning coffee time or right before bed, I try to think about all that I have to be grateful for. This practice has never failed me and continues to bring me peace and energy in tough and happy times alike.

Your top 3 ritual shoppe product picks...

We welcome a Libra Full Moon on Saturday…and there’s so much beauty in the air.

• SIGN: Libra

• ELEMENT: Air

• PLANETARY RULER: Venus

• MODALITY: Cardinal

• DEGREE: 26°

• DATE: Saturday, April 16th

• TIME:  2:55 PM EST

Full Moons are always a moment of surrender and release. This is not a time for manifestation, but rather a chance to reap what you’ve sown the past six months, and in this case, in the Libra area of your birth chart. Make a note of the corresponding Libra New Moon that happened on October 6th, 2021. Whatever happened back then is now culminating. What have you learned?

Those with personal planets between 23° and 29° of the cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) will feel this lunation most intensely. 

Libra energy is, at its best, the bringer of JUSTICE. It’s preoccupied with ensuring everything is fair, and doesn’t like to rock the boat. At its worst, it’s overly concerned with ensuring everyone else is happy- to the detriment of personal needs. Because this lunation is happening during Aries season, there might be a push and pull between what’s best for you, versus what’s best for your partnerships. Try to take both into account and see what happens!

The ruler of this lunation is Venus, and Venus is currently in Pisces, a place it’s VERY happy (in astrology, we call this “exalted”). Jupiter is also co-present in the sign (just coming off of its magical conjunction with Neptune), bringing hope, pleasure, and a search for TRUTH.

This Saturday is the ideal time to release your expectations in love, and just happily go with the flow. Especially because of the lunation's powerful connection with Scorpio…it’s also important to pay attention to what your intuition is telling you about your partnerships, and the values that inform them.

JOURNAL PROMPTS: How have your values changed over the past six months? What’s happened in your friendships/love relationships since last Fall? Where do you go to feel heard? Who makes you feel most loved? How are your finances doing?

If you’re familiar with your birth chart, we recommend reading your rising sign mantra. Many astrologer’s (including ours!) write horoscopes based on the rising, or ascendant sign, because it allows them to determine the houses of the chart; knowing the houses informs where the energy will be experienced in your life. If you’re not sure what your rising sign is, book a reading with us and just read your sun sign this time! 

Aries ✧ My partnerships have evolved and are overflowing with love.

Taurus ✧ I've restructured my routines and am feeling better than ever. 

Gemini ✧ My love life has been reborn and I’m enjoying an abundance of charisma.

Cancer ✧ My home life is radically improved and provides me with a safe haven. 

Leo ✧ My friendships have transformed and are blooming like never before.

Virgo ✧ My finances are flourishing and so am I.

Libra ✧ I’ve learned the importance of self care and am treating myself accordingly.

Scorpio ✧ My dreams show me the people, places, and things that really matter.

Sagittarius ✧ I'm fighting for the causes I believe in, even if it ruffles a few feathers.

Capricorn ✧ The work I do is beautiful, and people are paying attention.

Aquarius ✧ Traveling provokes some of my life's most special experiences.

Pisces ✧ Love has the power to transform...and I am love.

From everyone at secretsofwinecountry, we hope you have a beautiful Libra Full Moon weekend!

Happy birth month to all you April (Aries + Taurus) babies! This month, we're celebrating DIAMONDS, the April birthstone. Read on to find out a little more about the history of the diamond, their healing properties, sustainability, and a few of our top picks in store right now.

Brief History of the Diamond

Diamonds have been around…essentially forever! Though technically the first ones were found in India in the 4th century BC, the youngest of those deposits were formed nine hundred million years ago! They’re formed, like most beautiful things in life, through a lot of hard work and pressure.

While under extremely high heat deep in the Earth, they’re created through immensely pressured conditions and eventually ejected upwards. Once they reach the surface, or near it, they’re harvested by nature or humans, usually a combination of both. Then after a lot of cutting and polishing, they eventually find their way into jewelry stores and finally onto the bodies of millions of people around the world.

Healing Properties of the Diamond

Diamonds are, first and foremost, a symbol of purity. They never need charging or cleansing like other stones, and can actually be used to charge and cleanse other gems in their vicinity. Diamonds enhance the power of any other stones around them, making them a master for energy work of all kinds. It’s great for use in detoxing and purifying the body and because it’s the hardest stone on Earth…it promotes strength and vitality. If you’re looking to up-level your crystal game, diamonds are the ultimate healing stone to add to your collection.

 Sustainable Diamonds

If you’re looking to shop for sustainable diamonds, you’re in luck! There are many ways to bring a beautiful diamond into your life if you’re concerned about sustainability. Of course there’s always the option of vintage jewelry which we love, and you might even have heirloom pieces in your family that get passed down from generation to generation. 

In lieu of those options though, there’s also ways to buy something sustainably that’s new, and shopping locally is a great place to start. Our sister store, AMJ, has a plethora of absolutely gorgeous Herkimer diamond jewelry. The limestone caves of Herkimer, New York are exclusively where the namesake gems are found…and they just so happen to be nearby!

Herkimer diamonds are naturally double-terminated quartz crystals that were originally called “diamonds” because of their rareness in nature by the Mohawk Indians. They’re close to five hundred million years old (!!!) making them powerful amplifiers of grounded energy. These crystals are magnificent works of nature, found embedded in rock with a diamond-like geometrical shape. As an added bonus to all that, they also feature a 0.5+ increase in hardness from regular quartz on the Mohs scale.

Our Favorite Diamond Jewelry Right Now 

Baby Cosmic Witch Ring

Diamond Arc Earrings

Stardust Locket

Diamond Baguette Pendant

Do you own diamond jewelry? Or Herkimer diamond jewelry? Let us know what you're loving in the comments!

Who are you? Feel free to lay it all out here.

My favorite quote from Walt Whitman sums it up….“Do I contradict myself? Very well, then I contradict myself. I am large, I contain multitudes.”

First and foremost I am a mom to a fabulous teenage daughter and wife to a visionary artist. I am a multi-hyphenate creative and transformational life coach with a two-decade career in fashion and art. I love music and when I hit the dance floor, it’s hard to get me off.

What is your origin story? Tell us about where and how you grew up. Are there details from your culture and upbringing that influence your work today?

I grew up in Long Island, New York…a biracial catholic school girl whose multicultural background and life experiences dictates her entire life. I have a hippy mom (Italian & German Jewish) and an African father from Burundi. My life flowed between black and white every single day and still does to this day. This very fact influences everything I am and what I do. My innate compassion understanding transcends race, which is why I attract friends and clients of a vast array of nationalities.

What led you to begin your line of work and how long have you been doing it?

After I was a stay-at-home mom for a few years, I didn’t want to go back to fashion PR and went through some serious soul searching. When I discovered the profession of coaching I realized that I have been doing this since I was thirteen years old. It’s who I am. I’ve always been interested in inspiring people to live with passion and purpose and nurture strong relationships. I have facilitated over 800 coaching hours as a Certified Professional Coach accredited by The International Coach Federation.

Where do you currently live? How does your community inform/influence your work?

I live in Brooklyn, New York…as my Brooklyn-born husband likes to call it..”Brooklyn, the Planet.” I love my community in Bedford Stuyvesant as I was blessed with incredible neighborhood friends. We raised our children together, we support one another and nurture a real community spirit. I formed the Mom’s Empowerment Circle consisting of women who come together to share about life, marriage, work, childrearing and everything in between. For years, these connections inspire me in all aspects of my work as it is such a gift to be a part of a supportive community of brilliant minds.

Tell us about your working environment. What makes the space in which you create special? 

We are still living the pandemic life, so I am working from home. My husband and I enjoy bouncing ideas off one another during the day. I made sure to design my work space with cool wallpaper, crystals, candles, my vision boards and inspiring imagery. I’m all about visualizing and ensuring positive energy surrounds me as much as possible. A little palo Santo, sage and incense drives the hubby nuts, but I do what needs to be done to clear the energy. I really do look forward to working in a more formal, creative working environment with other creative souls in the future.

What words of advice would you give to an aspiring entrepreneur, artist, designer, healer, etc. that is wanting to get started?

Follow your instincts. One hard lesson I learned was that you can follow the exact formula some millionaire business coach may teach you as the key to success…but that doesn’t necessarily mean that is YOUR road to success. You may think you don't know what to do, but more often than not…when you listen deeply, you do. Follow your heart, educate yourself, take action, be resourceful, work hard and stay consistent.

WHAT IS YOUR RITUAL? What do you incorporate in your day-to-day to help you feel more connected with yourself and business? (Self-care tips welcomed here!).

I have serious miracle morning rituals that consist of meditation, prayer, reading or listening to spiritual texts, journaling, walking meditation while walking my Pom and I add in yoga a few days a week. If I don’t engage in my self-love rituals in the morning, my day is a hot mess. Facts! Been there. Done that. My self-care tip is to just do it. Release the excuses and just do one thing towards your personal self-care in the morning. What would lift your spirits?

What is your favorite product or service you offer and what makes it so special to you? 

I love “The Glow Up”, which is my six-month private premium coaching program.  This is so special to me because it is effective! When women come to me feeling stressed, overwhelmed, lonely and unfulfilled, by the end of this program, there is some incredible clarity and healing that takes place. Not only that, the six months time period is enough for radical personal transformation and goals to be set and some are even achieved within that time frame. Other bigger goals take more time, but it brings me so much joy to see when clients make big moves to a new home or country or find true love, or land a big new job for major money or leave destructive relationships to live out their best lives. It takes time for real change and I love spending that one-on-one time, where clients become friends and I feel fulfilled knowing how much I helped my fabulous clients feel more confident to live out their dreams.

*I do love my group program too and to get updates on the relaunch, follow my Instagram!

Do you have any books, podcasts, or resources you want to recommend to the community?

You can check out my free guide “Five Rituals to Ignite Your Power”. When you sign up for this guide, you gain access to my inspirational newsletters on modern mindful living and all my event updates.

I put my podcast Radiant Mix on hold during the pandemic and will be relaunching it again soon. This podcast highlights and celebrates the mixed, multi-racial, multicultural experience.  My previous episodes continue to be relevant today.

My go-to podcasts lately are The Daily (from The New York Times), Small Doses with Amanda Seales, The School of Greatness, with Lewis Howes. My daughter and I love learning about wild entrepreneurial adventures from “How I Built This, with Guy Raz.”  The podcast Broken Records has some great interviews with incredible musicians. When I’m needing to be a little zen, I like Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris.

There are so many books, but the one that is a fave is The War of Art by Steven Pressfield.  Right now I’m reading Karma, a Yogi’s GuideTo Crafting Your Destiny by Sadhguru and Get Good with Money by Tiffany Aliche, a fun and informative book about elevating your financial literacy.

Feel free to shout out other creatives here! We love learning about other movers, makers, and shakers out there.

I love a good shout out….

Rashia Bell: Crystal Healer and Founder of The Cristalline, the place to go for all things crystals and RE.VITYL for unique wellness products to revitalize your sleep. We also produce the Tropical Transformation Wellness Retreat together.

Amanda Berlin: a Visibility Consultation and PR guru. Amanda works with entrepreneurs to help elevate their visibility and get more press!

Asha Frost: Indigenous Medicine Woman & Author. Asha just came out with her first book, ”You Are The Medicine”, and I’m super happy for her.

We must know: what are some of your favorite products at secretsofwinecountry?

I am loving... the Gold Dagger Chain Earrings, Talo XL Horizon Earrings, Moonlit Night Ring, Triple Spike Ring and so much more. I could do on an on, as the jewelry is incredible.

While we observe nature’s brilliant metamorphosis around us...we’re also undergoing transformation as individuals. Aspects that no longer serve our life’s evolution will die away, making room for new opportunities that align with our highest paths.

What is it that you REALLY want right now? The time is ripe for grabbing hold of whatever it is you truly desire. You can have anything, but it will require strength and bravery. If the Spring Equinox were a Tarot card…it would be The Emperor after all!

We obviously love a good ritual around here and especially at the astrological new year, ritual work can be a supportive intention-setting practice for the months ahead.

This time of year is all about beginnings, but not necessarily about finishing anything that we start! That made us decide that a short and simple ritual might be most appropriate right now. 

SPRING EQUINOX RITUALS

Take your pick...remember you're the boss!

2. Do some jumping jacks- right now! Seriously, it might feel a little silly, but even just a minute of movement honors the quickness of the Spring Equinox, and will get your energy pumping.

 3. Gaze into a candle. Aries is of course the first fire sign so it’s special to ritualize its heat. Candle gazing can improve your focus- an important skill for successful people!

4. Punch a pillow, and scream into it as loud as you’d like. This is a moment of physicality and getting in touch with your body. Release is a powerful part of manifesting, after all…and tempers can run high during this season.

5. Incorporate the color RED! While you might think “Spring Equinox” would be green, we’ll save that for Taurus season. We have to start at the very beginning, and that’s the root chakra. Keeping red crystals (like carnelian) close will help ground you, and wearing red, even in small accents like a bold lip or nail polish, will emblazon all your exciting pursuits. 

A few of our favorite shop items for Spring Equinox ritual work...

2. Perfumed Incense Matches

3. The Siren Oil

MANTRAS FOR SPRING

secretsofwinecountry is powered by so many strong, smart, creative women, and we wanted to take some time to recognize even more of them that have been inspiring us lately.

This list of women is, of course, much shorter than the true number that we regularly celebrate. Women all over the world are strong daily, for being friends, mothers, BUSINESS OWNERS, lovers, etc. etc. etc. and there are truly more important women than we could ever count.

That said, we think this small round-up is a powerful list of the women that have had a bright spotlight on them the past few years. These are women that, especially since the pandemic began, have pushed us forward, inspired us, and brought something new and refreshing to the table.

We hope their stories will find you right on time, and remind you that today (International Women's Day!) and everyday, you're more important than you know. Here's to women everywhere!

Glennon Doyle

image by Amy Paulson via Random House Publishing Group

“Untamed” literally came out on March 10, 2020. There’s no way Glennon could’ve known that the timing of her latest book release would land the same month (almost to the day) that a global pandemic and lockdowns seized the world…but we don’t take it as a coincidence. So many women (us included!) read this book knee-deep in the pandemic when life felt more uncertain than ever. It was a bright spot that lifted us up, and truly empowered us with its inspiring and true stories of women’s strength. It’s a book that made us feel less alone, and one we’ll keep coming back to for years to come. She also released a podcast last year, We Can Do Hard Things, where she chats with her wife and sister about, you guessed it, all the hard stuff. 

Lalah Delia

image via @laladelia

It’s safe to say that we could all use a reason to vibrate higher these days, and this is a woman who knows all about it. Lalah teaches us how to become aware of the vibrations—energy, life force, frequency—that run through all things. She helps us see how different elements feed our negative and positive vibes, then invites us to take stock: what simple actions raise our vibrations? What people give us good vibes? In her book, as well as her Instagram, she reveals that when we know what brings us joy and what takes away from it, we become empowered to choose what we give our attention. We’re so thankful for what she’s doing and love her little inspirational Instagram posts, too.

Greta Thunberg

image via Wildscreen

We’ve been so inspired seeing women of all different backgrounds and ages getting the attention they deserve lately. Greta ticks so many of the boxes that are usually left unchecked regarding extreme power: female, young, and autistic. She burst onto the scene just before the pandemic as 2019’s TIME’s Person of the Year. Her passion and commitment to protecting the environment, and enacting real change has been refreshing to witness. We love that her direct approach, in part because of her Asperger’s syndrome, is garnering real attention in the media and most importantly, governments around the world. She encourages us to view our unique traits (and what many would see as weaknesses) as our biggest strengths. 

Rihanna 

image via Diggzy/Shutterstock

Rihanna has been inspiring us for years, but can we just say…PREGNANCY STYLE?! The photos of Rihanna lately have been beyond inspiring for loving and showing off our bodies- which she’s always been able to do more naturally than seemingly anyone else. Especially during the pandemic when millions of us confronted our changing bodies as they carried us through tumultuous times, Rihanna reminds us to celebrate ourselves at all stages of life. And not to mention, she’s the world’s richest female musician, thanks in part to her phenomenal business, Fenty Beauty.

Chani Nicholas

image by Luke Fontana

If you’re as obsessed with astrology as we are, you’ll have heard of the “CHANI” app. It launched in 2021, and it’s the first astrology app of its kind. Prior to releasing this groundbreaking app, Chani released; “You Were Born for This” at the very beginning of 2020. Like Doyle’s book, it felt especially well timed. We can’t help but imagine that Chani knew it would be! Chani is a queer business owner and we’re just so inspired by the work she’s putting out into the world. Especially during the pandemic, her book and app have felt really supportive.

Kamala Harris 

image via Getty / Drew Angerer

Keeping politics aside, WE HAVE A NON-WHITE, NON-MALE, VICE-PRESIDENT! The past few years have been so difficult, but this felt and continues to feel like such a huge win for women around the world. The United States is a world leader, and if we’re showing that women belong in the White House, it feels like we’re slowly but surely moving the needle—showing that women belong EVERYWHERE; especially the places that have traditionally only been "boy’s clubs." PS: We also sort of have a crush on her cool, creative, stepdaughter.

That's it for now! We hope you're feeling as inspired as we are and ready to continue the fight for women's equality, this month and beyond. What women are inspiring you these days? Let us know in the comments!