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Witchy Wednesdays are not what some people imagine. The stereotypical "witches" are not present. Potions are not brewing. Thoughts are not being read. Rather, it is a gathering of Marshalltown residents for a fun time and a chance to be uplifted, and the monthly events are increasing in popularity.
Held the last Wednesday of every month in the downtown Fiddle & Whistle, the event brings local spiritual or fortune readers to the pub. The regular event was started in January by Fiddle owner Sadeigh Putney and Taylor Bear of Soul Magick by Taylor Bear, because they wanted to bring something different and open-hearted to the community, and showcase local businesses.
"I think some people get nervous about spiritual readings," Bear said. "I think they have misconceptions and stigma attached to it. It's just an intuitive way to enjoy your spiritual path and maybe get some insight as you go about your journey. It's letting them know they are in control of their own life."
Telling customers about impending doom, messing with the afterlife or spiritual life in a bad way are not aspects of Witchy Wednesdays. It is about encouragement and listening. Bear said sometimes people need someone who does not know them or their lives to give them insight.
"Some people sit down with heavy, stressful situations in their life and they are just looking for some guidance," she said.
While Bear and other readers are giving guidance to their customers, Putney is working the crowd, asking people if they want a reading and observing behaviors.
"I see how people are feeling, how much fun they're having and making sure everyone is safe and happy," she said. "Some people who are skeptical, and if I am able to talk to them, I tell them to get a reading. Then they do it and they literally come up to me and say, 'That was so fun.'"
Putney said many people have constant daily activity. Sitting down and listening to readers, she said, there is noticeable relaxation.
"I watch people," Putney said. "People get loose and they are glued to the conversation and that is not something you see often in today's time. Ninety percent of people who come to this bar are on their phone. I have not seen a single person touch their phone when they are getting a reading done."
Thus far, Bear and Putney said there has not been any negative feedback regarding the monthly events. Bear said she has seen more people volunteer to help with Witchy Wednesdays, which shows they want the regular events to continue.
Having established connections with local readers, the duo said they try to rotate the practitioners every month. There are various types of readings which might be featured, such as angel or tarot card, or runic readings. Last night, Bear was featured, along with Shelly Adelmund of Art of Shelly Adelmund and Heidi Draisey of Spirited Yoga & Wellness.
"We have a list of awesome people and we have gotten to collaborate with them on other cool stuff," Bear said. "We encourage patrons to look for their favorite, if they have one, and go support a local business."
WITCHY WEDNESDAYS
Time: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., last Wednesday of every month
Address: 20 W. Main St.
Phone number: 641-328-1041
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Contact Lana Bradstream at 641-753-6611 ext. 210 or lbradstream@timesrepublican.com.