Storm WisdomCrystalizing A Vision

W

by Eric Sells

hen Charles McAlpine opened Storm Wisdom last year, he thought his 26 years

of business experience as a Valley banking executive would be an asset to him. What he soon learned was that, in some instances, it would be- come just the opposite. The wellness center in north Phoenix that Charles created offers beautiful group space, high quality crystals, stones, and other unique gifts, as well as a number of onsite spiritual consultants.

His strong vision and attention to detail for the facility, from the overall layout to the meeting and practitioner rooms, even down to the merchandise identification tags, help ensure a con- sistent energy that visitors experience. Strictly adhering to this vision meant not pursuing other opportuni-

APRIL EVENTS

Magic of Crystals

with Charles McAlpine

Thursday, April 1st 6:30pm - 8pm

Calling all Lightpreneurs

with Elmas Vincent

Wednesday, April 7th 6:45pm - 8:45pm

Essential Oils - Facts vs. Myth

with Arline Konikow

Saturday, April 10th 1pm - 3pm

Feng Shui - Fire Element

with Sandy Sue Rector

Thursday, April 15th 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Enlightenment Festival & Art Fair

Saturday & Sunday, April 24th

10am - 6pm

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Phoenix

& 25th

ties, even when that resulted in trim- ming potential sales and revenue. “I’ve turned away high-quality

practitioners who I didn’t feel were the best fit for this space,” he commented. He also wanted to offer products that customers could not find any- where else in Phoenix. So that meant not stocking more popular items like books, music, or salt lamps that other establishments already carry. In this way he has built strong relationships with many local businesses, by refer- ring clients to them when they are searching for something he does not stock, and visa versa. Starting any new retail enterprise

can be challenging, but was especially difficult in 2009. Charles has been surprised by this internal struggle be- tween the businessman who says “just take the money” and his heart which focuses on following his vision. I am very glad his heart has been consistently winning. Upon entering Storm Wisdom’s

doors, my attention was immediately captured by the extensive array of high quality crystals and stones. I felt like I was in a museum. These large crystals were basked in light that magnified their brilliance and clarity. I could feel their breathtaking beauty pulling me in to reveal additional treasures. The location features a large meeting space that can seat up to 35 people, three individual practitioner rooms and a very comfortable seating area for patrons to relax. Charles describes Storm Wisdom as a space for individuals who do per- sonal and spiritual growth workshops and meditations – people supporting others on their journey.

“When someone is committed to exploring his or her spiritual journey, we have some really talented con- sultants here who can support them.

Christopher Barr Photography 2009

If a person is looking for us to give them the answers, then this probably isn’t the right place. We focus helping people discover their own solutions and empowering them with new tools, skills and practices.” The onsite practitioners are all

intuitive readers and healers who concentrate on life coaching, spiritual response therapy, quantum touch, reiki, massage, reflexology and sha- manic energy healing. Many integrate crystals, essential oils, or other tools into their practice, creating custom experiences based on the unique requirements of each client. When asked what’s been the most fun part of the venture, he said it was the two adjoining sofas Charles and I were sitting on during the inter- view. He said he regularly finds four to six people gathered, feeding the community aspect that he so desired. “I’ve had people literally sit down and be here for five to six hours in conversation. Energetically, this is a place where the truth wants to be spo- ken. People let their guard down and connect with others as well as with their own internal guidance.”

Storm Wisdom is located at 3375 E. Shea Boulevard in Scottsdale. Hours of operation are Tuesday - Sunday, 10am - 6pm (and for special events as scheduled). For more information and upcoming events, please visit Storm- Wisdom.com. See ad on page 21. Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48