Meet The Moonery Collective

Do you have a story behind your company name?

After not feeling completely satisfied with my business name for a third time, I decided to take a walk to clear my head. It was a full moon that night and I jokingly said to myself, maybe I should change my name to The Moonery Collective. No, that's silly.. I looked up the definition when I got home and beside the obvious of mooning someone(!), I found that a "mooner" is a person who abstractedly wanders or gazes about. I have always been a daydreamer and get lost in thought. So the name stuck! It's a homage to all of those daydreamers out there!

Oh we love that! How did you get your start?

I have been dabbling in herbalism and creative processes for twenty years and in 2019, finally made it official. I am a professional archaeologist, and while that is a fun and fascinating career, I needed a creative outlet. My motto is "where science meets magick" slow fusion skin and ritual care, blending traditional herbal remedies I've learned over the years with fun, witchy ritual things like intention candles and bath items.

Definitely important to have balance. Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

Coming up with an idea and then watching it unfold for both the successes and the ideas that didn't quite come out the way I planned. It is all part of the learning process.

Very true. Can you tell us what a typical day is like in the studio for you?

The first thing I do is sip herbal tea, take in a deep breath, and say, "You got this," then get the candle melter started. While that is heating up, I check orders and emails, as well as the low inventory list. Some days I just start creating without a routine and follow my heart. Other days I'm overwhelmed and sit on the couch ignoring it all!

What inspires you to create?

I love teaching people about my products and to encourage others to make or do what inspires them, even if it's been done a thousand times. I'm not re-inventing the wheel here. You can buy a candle or a salve from a lot of amazing people, but it's that connection and conversations that keep me going.

Love that. Do you have a favorite item you have made?

Lady From the Mountain (a line in a Stevie Nicks song, can you guess which one?) is my most popular candle. Made with my own wax blend of coconut, soy, and mango butter using only essential oils, it smells absolutely intoxicating and is so pretty to look at! The candle is adorned with botanicals and a crystal that corresponds to the candle to help set your intention. The candle is safe to use on your skin, too! But if I'm being practical and want to share my love of herbalism, then I would have to say the Colorado Crack Salve is my favorite. It's like a first aid for your skin! Great for dry, cracked hands and feet, minor cuts, bites, and even safe for healing tattoos.

What do you love most about Arvada?

I love seeing the mountains every day, it never gets old. Arvada is a cute town just down the road from Golden, where I live. Olde Town Arvada is really great - the shops, the food.. one of my favorite places to meet friends is The Bluegrass Coffee and Bourbon Lounge, there is something for everyone and the people are friendly.

We can’t wait to see you in person this August 5th & 6th for Jackalope Arvada!

Where to see more of The Moonery Collective:

Website | https://www.themoonerycollective.com/

Instagram | @the.moonery