Where should I set up office?

Thread originally posted on the Aeclectic Tarot Forum on 15 Aug 2003, and now archived in the Forum Library.

Frequency	15 Aug 2003
I'd like to try doing readings for a small fee of $10-15 in a public place of some kind. Just to see how it goes. I was thinking in the subway but I'd have to haul a table and chairs... It would be too awkward. Anyone have any ideas? Ooooh, a coffee shop of some kind? Could I do that?

lunalafey	15 Aug 2003
There are laws in regards to street peddling. It might be better to set up in a pre-existing business where the people who work there know you. Like a coffee shop, or a bookstore, beadstore....um....what else?

WolfSpirit	16 Aug 2003
The subway does not seem a good idea to me... I think I would try to get some contacts of people running spiritual shops or coffee shops in an "alternative" area with lots of small shops selling herbs or cards and such. That would attract most customers and would also be more enjoyable. If there is a fair in your area you could go there and talk to people who have a little business if they can give you good tips. Good luck in finding your space !!

Alissa	17 Aug 2003
Definitely check into street peddling laws in your area. And laws regarding "fortune telling." You may wish to register at the Universal Life Church as a Reverend (you can do this by the net, no cost). This title can protect you in case you face charges of "fortune telling," as can happen in some places. And if there is a University near you, find locales and places near there. I don't know why, but broke college students will : 1. still pay for frivolous things, 2. many have at least a passing interest in occult, and, 3. are *daily* at a point in their lives where they feel like they need guidance. Best wishes, and make sure you keep your supplies light. Lugging around a foldable table is a drag, take it from me.

Marion	17 Aug 2003
Frequency, where do you live? I suspect it would make a difference as what you could do.

lawguy51	17 Aug 2003
I think there's a safety issue with the subway as well...

Crowley	17 Aug 2003
Hmmm the subway sounds a bit too dodgy to me on both sides. Would you go to a reader in the subway and feel safe exchanging money, no matter how small the money is. Mind you I've seem some good high secrity cameras and lighting in the resent subways that I've been through but I think most people avoid them if they can and this will mean low or no clients. A bookstore where they sell tarot stuff sounds OK but I quess you have to find one first that will allow you to rent space etc. Have you ever thought of doing phone readings and get the clients to make a booking first by sending a check? I think 121 readings a much better but if you can't work at home for whatever reason you will have to come up with the money to rent space. I had a friend who was in the same boat as you some time ago and she ended up going to the clients house but she only saw females. Anway I hope you find something, let us know how you get on

DeLani	18 Aug 2003
Hi Frequency (nice pun), I agree, def. not the subway. It's not too safe, or quiet, or anything conducive to a good reading. Forget that. I'm kind of in the same boat as you are. I want to start doing more readings, but have no space, and no money. I don't want people comeing to my house, and most people aren't comfortable with me going to their houses. Sometimes we meet at a local metaphysical shop that has a back room, but that room is quite often booked for classes and stuff. So, I can't really depend on it. So then we'll usually meet in a restaurant or coffee house, which isn't as quiet as we'd like. I would just put it out to the universe what your intention is, and let what happens, happen. If it was meant to be, it will work out somehow. Best of luck.

The Where should I set up office? thread was originally posted on 15 Aug 2003 in the Talking Tarot board, and is now archived in the Forum Library. Read the active threads in Talking Tarot, or read more archived threads.