Ashley Branton, owner of Velvet Witch in Norfolk, Virginia, discusses her journey to opening the spiritual shop and community space in a podcast interview. After an inspirational trip to Salem, Massachusetts in 2016, Branton felt called to create an inclusive, welcoming space for people interested in spirituality, wellness, and personal growth. She brought her background as an intuitive, singer, and makeup artist to opening the shop during the pandemic in 2020. Now Velvet Witch offers crystals, herbs, tarot readings, energy healings, and community rituals. Ashely focuses on empowering and lifting up her community, saying “inspiration is my big thing.” She has an exciting expansion planned for more offerings this fall.