One of my favorite things about the Tarot community is how very supportive it is. A clear manifestation of that support came through my friend and Tarot colleague Theresa Reed aka “The Tarot Lady.” Not only is she an internationally renowned Tarot reader and teacher, she is also the author of the newly released The Tarot Coloring Book. When we learned that our Tarot books were to be released on the same day, November 1, we were both ecstatic. We led a giveaway for a joint-prize package, which was a wonderful time. Then, not only was she kind enough to profile me on her blog this year, she let me profile her on mine!
Theresa Reed aka “The Tarot Lady”
Theresa has been a full-time Tarot card reader for close to 30 years. She is the author of the newly released The Tarot Coloring Book, an illustrated tour through the world of Tarot with coloring sheets for every card in the deck. In addition to doing private Tarot readings, teaching Tarot classes, and speaking at Tarot conferences, Theresa also runs a popular website—TheTarotLady.com—where she dishes out advice, inspiration and tips for Tarot lovers of all experience levels.
Here is my conversation with Theresa!
Tell us about the moment you decided to do a Tarot Coloring Book.
My original book proposal was a tarot book for beginner’s. Sounds True came up with the idea of turning it into a coloring book. As soon as they approached me with that idea, I was totally down with it. Reason why: I’m a visual, hands-on learner. When I was studying anatomy for my yoga teacher training, I struggled. But then, I got a copy of The Anatomy Coloring Book and began coloring my way through the human body. Needless to say, I ended up acing the anatomy portion of my test! I know that for many people, tarot can be intimidating too. A coloring book can help the reader learn the symbols and meanings of each card. Plus it’s fun!
What was your favorite part about this project?
My favorite part was working with my publisher. They are amazing and so supportive! The other thing that has been enjoyable has been meeting all the fantastic people who are loving The Tarot Coloring Book. There is nothing better than knowing that your work helped or inspired someone.
What was the most challenging?
The most challenging, of course, was writing the darn book! I have an incredibly jam packed work load over here – I had to carefully engineer my schedule to make sure I could deliver the manuscript on time while still running my businesses. This was a feat, believe me. Many early mornings and long nights – plus a boatload of caffeine – were needed to get it done on time. Let me tell you, writing a book is not easy. Yet I have another one up my sleeve, begging to be written!
Many Tarot writers and deck creators talk about moments in which they directly experience aspects of the Tarot, such as a “Devil Card” or “Magician” moment. Did you experience this? If so, tell us about it, if you’re willing!
I’ve experienced every single card in the deck. Not kidding on that! My favorite story was the time I pulled the Seven of Swords from the Wild Unknown Tarot while sitting next to my husband on the couch. In this deck, the image shows a fox curled up. I showed it to my husband and gasped – he has his computer screen open and there was a picture of a man with a fox curled up on his chest! It was unbelievable! The Seven of Swords is a card of theft. Not surprisingly, a few days after I pulled this card, I discovered a plagiarist had stolen some of my work.
Aside from simply being beautiful and fun, how do you feel Tarot and Coloring books go hand in hand?
Tarot and coloring help us to get in touch with ourselves in different ways. Coloring is a meditative act. So is Tarot. Whether you are coloring or working with the cards, for that moment, time is stopped and you have the ability to quiet your mind. When the mind is quiet, the answers come. Both tarot and coloring are good tools for that.
One thing you’re known for, aside from being a wonderful Tarot reader, is being an entrepreneur guide for Metaphysicians. Tell us about what called you to doing that kind of work and what you enjoy most about it.
I was called to do this because I saw too many talented tarot peers struggle to make a living doing this work. It wasn’t for lack of tarot ability – it was for lack of business skills. I have an uncanny knack for business so I thought it might be good to share my wisdom. There is nothing that makes me happier than seeing my fellow mystical peers succeed! I believe that there is enough work for all of us – and that tarot needs strong readers with good business sense and professionalism. I also must confess: I LOVE talking about business. Seriously. I am obsessed over it!
Would you be willing to talk about what’s next the in the world of Theresa Reed?
Like I mentioned above, I have another book in me that wants to come out. But first, I have a little book tour to tend to this year! I’ll be hitting a bunch of great cities such as San Francisco, Denver, Albuquerque, Toronto, and Portland. I’m stoked to meet fans and friends of The Tarot Coloring Book! I’m also teaching a workshop at the Omega Tarot Conference with tarot legends Mary K. Greer, Rachel Pollack, Sasha Graham and Barbara Moore. I’m beyond honored to be included in that lineup! Lastly, I’m working on a few more digital products for tarot entrepreneurs and a top secret project for 2018. That one is totally under wraps and being beta tested soon!
What is your favorite card in the Tarot? Why is it your favorite?
Hands down, The Sun. It’s the card of success, abundance, and pure unbridled joy. I’m a very playful, joyful person – you rarely find me in a bad mood. The Sun reflects the way I like to approach life: with a positive attitude and a sense of fun. Life is a journey – might as well have fun while we’re here!
Follow Theresa on Twitter and Instagram for her daily “Six Second Tarot Reading”—plus photos of her extremely handsome cats, TaoZen and Monkey.
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