To put your name on the waiting list, email us
and we'll let you know if there's a cancellation.

Those who were there say last year's Readers Studio couldn't be topped. All we have to say is …

More presentations from top-notch Tarot professionals

More after-hours study groups

More connecting with friends, old and new

More networking and tip-swapping

More sofas, chairs and private nooks for readings and cozy conversations

More laughing in the bar 'til 1 in the morning

Coffee and tea all day long (hey, it's important stuff!)

Dear fellow Tarot lover,

If you joined us last April for the Readers Studio, you know it was big. In fact, it was the biggest and best we've ever had — it was a sold-out event!

And the energy was big, too. With over 100 Tarot readers in the room, how could it be anything but? The energy generated by three non-stop days of learning, connecting, laughing, sharing, and shopping, well… you have to feel it to believe it. And once you do, you'll be hooked.

Attendees called in to let us know that they were still pulsating with the energy after they'd left. Many said that it would take them months (yes, months) to digest the sheer volume of information they brought home with them. Some of our new friends, concerned that we'd sell out again, wanted to reserve their space for next year early.

Make no mistake: the 2007 Readers Studio exceeded our expectations and those of everyone we talked to. But there was just one problem…

We ran out of room!

Quite simply, we'd outgrown our venue. And that was a little troublesome. The Readers Studio is rapidly transforming into a vibrant extended family, which delights us no end. We'd hate to have to turn anyone away because we ran out of space.

Clearly, we had to do something. And so…

Our topic for class that night was the King of Cups, and our discussion included the symbolism of the crown and throne and the energy created between them.

We knew such energy would be a tremendous asset to The Readers Studio. We decided to make the King of Cups the centerpiece of our reading.

We had our question, we had our energetic intentions… but we were still slightly apprehensive. After all, at that point, new possibilities felt like a long shot. We knew we wouldn't be able to “see” the outcome before the Universe presented it to us.

With minds and hearts open, we shuffled the cards and each selected one:

Wow!

As you can see, the spread was very intriguing. Talk about energy!

With so many Wands in our corner, we knew we'd find our King of Cups energy. And the 8 of Wands on the left and the 6 of Wands reversed on the right created a receptacle to hold it all.

The cards showed that our separate energies were clearly moving towards each other. We knew that whatever happened, we would reach consensus almost instantly. We would meet in the middle, and fast.

All those wands indicated wood, greenery and growth. There would be living, growing things around us, possibly a garden. The 8 of Wands often indicates travel by air, perhaps an airport hotel here.

Our good friend Elinor Greenberg, a presenter at the last Readers Studio, was in the class. “Do any of the hotels have a flag or banner of some sort?” she asked. “That's another thing to look for.”

Energy, energy, energy. Clearly, it would be our biggest clue. Everyone agreed: we would know immediately when we'd found “the one.”

But which hotel would it be? We would have to let the Universe guide us…

When we walked into the Sheraton Newark Airport Hotel, it was the energy that hit us first. Just as the reading predicted.

The minute we stepped through those doors, we found ourselves enveloped in calm, radiant, restorative energy. Fueled by the sun through the windows, the plants tucked into every corner, the wood furnishings, and all that delicious open space, we knew the energy would be the perfect counterbalance to the glowing intensity of The Readers Studio.

We took a second to soak up some of that energy. Then we looked at each other and said, “This is the place.”

And can you blame us?

As you can see, the Sheraton is simply gorgeous. Open, airy and with lots of light, its 8-story atrium welcomes you with open arms and practically invites you to settle in, relax and unwind. Most importantly, the space feels as good as it looks.

Our first clue was right on the money. And then the other details predicted by the reading began to emerge…

With wood, greenery and growing things permeating every part of
the Sheraton, the growth of the Wands is everywhere.

The layout of the staircases and metallic struts on the windows are
visually reminiscent of the Wands flying through the air on the 8.
The hotel is only moments away from Newark Liberty International Airport.

We couldn't help but laugh when we saw the Sheraton logo.
We'd seen it before, of course, but the laurel wreath has
so much more significance in light of the 6 of Wands.
There was Elinor's banner after all!

We were greeted by upbeat, attentive staff who took us under their wing and dropped everything to introduce us to all the amenities the Sheraton has to offer. (In fact, we were treated like a King — the other card in our reading!) Each stop on the whirlwind tour left us more impressed and excited on behalf of you, our guest. What's more, the hotel staff has graciously agreed to throw in some special extras!

Here's what you can look forward to:

A spacious ballroom for Studio sessions. You'll have plenty of room to get down to the business of working, connecting, and networking. Thanks to the added capacity in our new ballroom, you won't feel cramped, yet the layout will ensure the intimacy you know and love.

Large and luxurious accommodations featuring what very well may be the best hotel beds you've ever experienced. The Readers Studio's intensity lasts late into the night. You're probably not going to be sleeping for very long — all the more reason why you've got to make your rest count. The Sheraton's signature Comfort Beds will make sure you do just that. The rooms are big enough to accommodate plenty of visitors, if you prefer to keep your late night networking cozy. Many of the rooms have private balconies overlooking the beautiful atrium, and all rooms have individual digital thermostats, so you control the temperature and get a perfect night's sleep.

Friendly and helpful hotel staff. The staff has stunned us with the lengths to which they'll go to make our event a success. If what we've seen so far is any indication, they'll bend over backwards to make sure we're comfortable and that all the little details are taken care of.

Indoor swimming pool and hot tub — We know what you're thinking… with all the action lasting late into the night, who has time to swim? You do! The hotel has agreed to keep the swimming pool open for us until 1 am. Why not keep the conversation going as you unwind in the hot tub? Don't forget your suit!

Great food and plenty of it. The Bistro 128 Restaurant and Trophies Lounge (otherwise known as the hotel bar — and another reference to the 6 of Wands) stay open late and serve amazing food. For those who want more variety without blowing their budget, we've arranged to have concession-style meals for breakfast and lunch available in the breakfast roundtable area.

A bar that's tailor-made for The Readers Studio after-hours socializing. The bar is always a favorite place to be, and this one couldn't be more perfect for us. And they're open 'til 1 a.m. Use one of the private nooks for a reading, or just laugh and chat in comfort. And there's a pool table too.

Tons of space for readings. On top of the nooks in the bar and comfy spaces scattered throughout the hotel, the staff will set up special cocktail tables for readings right outside the ballroom. You'll never be without a comfortable place to connect.

An endless flow of coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, right in the ballroom — Everyone loved the afternoon cookie breaks at the Marriot, but we're sure you remember: once the coffee was gone, it was gone. You won't have to rush the pot this year for your afternoon pick-me-up or your mid-morning cuppa — we've made arrangements for our rooms to stay stocked continuously with all the coffee, tea, and hot chocolate it takes to keep you going throughout the Studio. You'll always be a few steps away from a fresh pot of coffee (the best coffee Wald has tasted in a long, long time, we might add).

Gift shop and shopping — Want a souvenir, or did you just forget something? Pick it up in the luxurious gift shop, located right on site.

On-site car rental — Want the freedom to drive to Manhattan or the nearby Jersey Gardens outlet shopping mall? You can rent a car from the car rental desk, right next to the gift shop. What could be easier?

Convenient, inexpensive travel. Newark Liberty Airport is a much simpler destination for our international travelers and often less expensive for domestic flights too. For those who are local, it's a quick and easy train or bus ride to the airport, where a free shuttle will give you door-to-door service to the hotel.

And there's something else we really wanted to let you know. It's a thought that kept coming back to us on our tour, over and over again…

It sounds crazy, we know. Who ever heard of getting away to a hotel? But the Sheraton truly is an oasis of comfort and relaxation. Above and beyond all of the great benefits listed above, it's the energy that really makes this hotel special. That's the energy that will sustain you during our work and restore you when the day is done. We've not found that anywhere else.

And what a relief! Because when it gets right down to it, that's the one thing The Readers Studio has lacked… until now. Truth be told, we didn't know it until we felt for ourselves exactly what's been missing. That kind of healing energy is crucial to the well-being of the Studio, and will become even more so as our family gets bigger and bigger.

We want you to feel fresh, excited and energized, not drained or burned out. To that end, we offer a suggestion…

GET HERE EARLY!

We're not kidding…

This year, we're going to do something a little different. You may have heard that we offer an early bird, pre-conference class at The Readers Studio. It's an extra class we hold on Thursday afternoon — a little something for those who arrive the day before opening day and want to get started early.

As we said, it's a little something extra. And as it's completely optional, we usually don't publicize the class very much. A little mention here, a little mention there… those who are meant to be there hear the message and take the class.

Such is not the case this year. This year, we strongly encourage you to get here early. Give yourself some time to relax and unwind after your travel. Explore the hotel, and soak up some of that restorative, healing energy.

In the late afternoon, join us for this year's special pre-conference class.

Hey, all you Birth Card fans out there — is there more to Birth Cards than you've already seen or heard? You bet! What you've read or learned so far, what's publicly available anywhere, is just a drop in the bucket.

In our Thursday pre-conference class, we're going to open the door for you to some Birth Card knowledge and technique you never even guessed existed. Even if you're one of the few who has already heard about this material from us, we'll show you some things you've never seen before. It's fabulous stuff.

Our pre-conference class at the 2007 Readers Studio, Advanced Aces, was a huge hit. Attendees were thrilled with the advanced information, so we thought we'd give you another opportunity to delve deeper into a fascinating subject that has lots of practical applications for your readings and Tarot business.

Here's what people had to say about the Advanced Aces class…

“The Advanced Aces array provides a very enlightening way to look at yourself in a deeper way and is a phenomenal tool when reading for others.”

– Connie “Garnet” Schaeffer

“The Advanced Aces workshop was the most revelatory moment for me at the 2007 Readers Studio and continues to reverberate in my appreciation and practical application of Tarot to my spiritual friendship ministry. ”

– Rev. Paul Nagy, M.Div.

The Advanced Birth Cards class will be just as useful as Advanced Aces (and of course just as fun) and we're not sure if we'll hold it again. Don't miss it!

After the class is over, take the rest of the evening to connect with the other early bird attendees. Take a dip in the pool, join Wald as he holds court in the lobby (one of his favorite conference activities!) or relax in the comfort of your room.

Whatever you do on Thursday evening, be sure to take in as much of that delicious, restorative energy as you can, because it's going to be the most jam-packed Readers Studio yet!

And it all starts with our guest presenters — a powerhouse of a line-up that will flood the Readers Studio with a rollicking energy we've never had before…

IMPORTANT NOTE: Watch this space for updates! Because we've got so much lined up for you at the 2008 Readers Studio, we wanted to let you in on it as quickly as possible. But it's still early yet! New details emerge every day, so be sure to check back.

Introducing: The Readers Studio 2008 Presenters

There's no other way to put it: the energy of the main presentations will be dynamite. Read on and you'll see why…

This is the year! We've been looking forward to James Wells on the main stage for ages. A professional reader for over 25 years, a favorite teacher and a true original in the Tarot community, James has the experience, depth of knowledge, and commitment to Tarot that few people on the planet match. He'll share some of his best techniques with you.

We simply cannot wait to introduce you to Thalassa, our second presenter. Founder of BATS, the Bay Area Tarot Symposium (the longest running Tarot conference ever), Thalassa is a remarkable teacher, reader and Tarot visionary. She's also very, very funny! With her vibrant presence, razor-sharp wit and vast Tarot knowledge, Thalassa is going to rock the house at The Readers Studio. Once you meet her, you'll never forget her. We're thrilled we could persuade her to make a rare East Coast appearance.

If you've been to a recent Readers Studio, you already know and love Kevin Quigley, our third presenter. Witty and wise, handsome and humble, Kevin is a natural born teacher with a wealth of Tarot knowledge. For the past two years, his late-night study sessions have been among the very favorites of Readers Studio attendees. He'll keep you riveted when he takes the stage to share a whole host of transformative, practical Tarot techniques.

James, Thalassa and Kevin are all phenomenal presenters. They know their stuff inside and out, and they're going to do some amazing Tarot work with you. And there's something else that we feel we need to mention…

It's that energy thing again. On their own, James, Thalassa and Kevin are three of the sharpest, wittiest, funniest Tarot people you'll ever meet. Put them together, and well, what happens next, nobody could predict, but we do know one thing for sure: the interplay between them will be nothing short of hilarious.

Make no mistake: the energy in 2008 is going to be very, very high. And we promise that you'll walk away with so many new tools and tricks, your head will be swimming, your heart will be buzzing, and you'll be itching to get out your cards every single day for the foreseeable future.

Let me at 'em! Sign me up for The Readers Studio!

Our popular breakfast roundtables are BACK!

At The Readers Studio, we don't like to waste a minute. Be sure to get some sleep in those comfy beds, because once again, the action starts early. Our breakfast roundtables return this year, and they'll be jam-packed with practical information and technique.

We're thrilled to welcome Robert M. Place back to The Readers Studio! The author of five books and creator of four decks, including the seminal Alchemical Tarot, Bob has a passionate, life-long commitment to the cards. His expertise with Tarot is vast… and he doesn't hold back! This rare opportunity to learn from a true scholar and gifted teacher of the Western Mysteries is not to be missed.

Corrine Kenner is one of the Tarot community's treasures. Since bursting on the scene in 2000 with the Epicurean Tarot, Corrine has written nine books and is an expert teacher. Always true to her mission of making Tarot practical, accessible and fun, Corrine has brought the wisdom of Tarot to countless readers. She's a nearly bottomless resource of insight and info you can use.

As always, the main events at The Readers Studio are “one track only.” The program includes all five of our fabulous presenters. So bring an empty notebook and get ready — all of our presenters are known for over-delivering and you're going to hear everything.

Of course, sometimes having options is a very good thing! Those who relish the power of choice will be happy to hear that not only will the ever-popular study groups return, there are more of them than ever (read all about them further on down the page). Be prepared to stay up late — study sessions take place on Friday and Saturday nights from 9-11pm.

I want to learn from the best! Sign me up for the Readers Studio!

The Readers Studio 2008 will be overstuffed with valuable content. But all the content in the world means nothing unless you use it.

And that's what The Readers Studio is really about. If you've never been to this event before, you should know a few things about what to expect…

Where professional Tarot readers come
to get good and get better — fast

At The Readers Studio, we bring you high-octane, high-intensity training in Tarot's practical side: reading. Over the past five years, The Readers Studio has developed a reputation as THE place for professional readers and serious Tarotists to be.

Over three days, you'll be treated to top-notch Tarot instruction from the best and brightest minds in Tarot — pros with chops and tons of real world experience. Each presenter will give you brand new techniques and strategies, stuff you won't get anywhere else. These new tricks will push you as a reader, and they're about as far from vague theory as you can get.

But the instruction is just the beginning. The real strength of The Studio lies in what comes next: hands-on practice. Sessions are long — three and a half hours each — because they include plenty of time to try out what you learn with your fellow readers.

You'll get the hands-on, cutting edge Tarot training the Studio is famous for and the chance to immediately put it to work with your fellow Tarot pros. You'll sit side-by-side with some of the best and brightest minds in Tarot.

Result? You will see swift, dramatic improvements in your reading, no matter where you are in your tarot practice when you arrive.

I want bold improvements in my readings. Sign me up NOW.

Proof: our signature Foundation Reading

With the Foundation Reading, performed at the beginning of every Readers Studio, you'll see your skills transform before your very eyes. Here's how it works.

On Friday morning, just before the first session, you'll pair up with a partner and read for each other, using whatever skills you have when you walk in the door. You'll give each other feedback and take lots of notes.

Then the real fun begins: the immersion in Tarot for two and a half days straight. You'll learn from all our presenters and practice on the spot. You'll read and read and then read some more and you'll absorb a ton of information and technique, from special guests and attendees alike.

On Sunday morning, you'll pair up with your original partner and perform the Foundation Reading again — same cards, same questions — but with the addition of the powerful techniques you've learned. You'll see — with dramatic clarity — how you've progressed over the weekend.

At The Readers Studio, it's not just what you absorb, it's what you take away, too. The sheer quantity of techniques, tips, strategies and practical information you'll get from the five presenters will keep you busy long after the event is over. You'll learn more in three days than you'd learn in some courses that go on for weeks.

It's my turn now! Sign me up for The Readers Studio!

“That sounds great, but…
is The Readers Studio right for me?”

If you feel comfortable doing a reading without the help of a book, the answer is a resounding YES!

The Readers Studio is intense, and you should come prepared to throw yourself into it and let the momentum carry you. We really do spend two and a half days straight with our decks in our hands, learning techniques and reading for each other. You will be reading, thinking and breathing Tarot all day, and on into the night if you choose.

But it doesn't matter if you're a beginning reader or an expert. If that excites you, and you can already read on your own, then… come on in, the water's fine!

For Tarotists, there's no place on earth quite like this

When we began The Readers Studio, we set out to create a place where people who are passionate about Tarot can meet, network, and most importantly, take their skills to the next level. We always knew that community would play a large part in whatever the event was to become. But we could not have imagined what our community has blossomed into over the past five years.

The Readers Studio has become more than just a conference. It's a place where friendships are forged, bonds are formed and both are strengthened over time, as attendees return again and again. We're not bragging when we say that everyone who comes to The Readers Studio wants to come back.

The energy of the connection is hard to adequately describe, but those who come close are those who know it best. Here a few comments from some past attendees, taken from a recent teleseminar:

“Overwhelmed by the graciousness, the friendliness… the warmth and accessibility of the top pros…”

“It was a level playing field…”

“The contacts, the abundance, the sharing… was absolutely incredible.”

“The reason why I go is a sense of community…”

“We're all on the same track. There's a sense of communitas…”

“It's not just a conference! There's so much stuff before, after, inside…”

“Everyone is 'just folk!' ”

“Like having several Tarot readings at once from a group of people! That really was wonderful.”

Class of 2007 (photo by Sue Pacillo)

“And I was just thinking, 'wow, we have an interesting group of people here…' ”

“The connections were the most important part of my experience.”

“I swapped tables several times. Because I wanted to meet as many people as I possibly could.”

“I'm definitely committed to going every year…”

“I can see how it's going to build and build and grow…”

“There's great knowledge from just being in a room with that many people who have made a journey of a life of Tarot…”

“There are no limits. There are no boundaries!”

“It was just very, very profound for me.”

The Readers Studio group mind can be an extremely moving experience, especially for readers who are learning Tarot on their own, lack encouragement close to home or are otherwise isolated from a support network. The connection was so powerful, it left Mary Collin saying, “I don't want to wait 12 months 'til we do this again!”

(Mary is conducting a teleconference series throughout the year, to keep the conversation going and get psyched for 2008. The comments above came from the first call in the series. If you'd like to get in on the calls, great! They're free, and open to all, whether you're a past attendee or not. Contact Mary at mary@marycollin.co.uk to get on the list.)

I don't want to wait, either. Sign me up NOW so I won't miss out!

Friday night kickoff cocktail party!

To celebrate our new home and to kick off The Readers Studio in style, we have an extra special treat in store for you on Friday night… a cocktail party!

It's a Readers Studio first. At the end of day 1, join us as we relax, unwind and connect with each other. The lobby bar will be open, hors d'ouvres will be served and Ruth Ann may even play the piano. It's the perfect time to catch up with old friends, or to meet someone new.

Many of our attendees know each other online but have never met before The Readers Studio. We love how our community is growing, and encourage you to come to the cocktail party early and stay late. (You can be sure that's what we'll do, too. Catching up with old friends is one of our favorite parts of The Readers Studio!)

Friendliness and accessibility are two of the hallmarks of The Readers Studio community. Don't be shy about introducing yourself to a pro you've wanted to meet for years…

Who will you meet? Who will you work with?
You never know…

Imagine yourself sitting down with Mary Greer, Robert Place, or Rachel Pollack to work through an exercise. It's a common occurrence at The Readers Studio.

Thanks to our unique “one track only” curriculum, we're all in it together — everyone works through the same material, with a single presenter at one time. It's like a Tarot class with 100 or more people! But the round tables ensure you get an intimate experience and plenty of one-on-one with readers just like you.

Don't be surprised if you're sitting next to your favorite Tarot author. They participate too! And please don't be intimidated by anyone sitting next to you. The Readers Studio truly is a level playing field, with everyone working towards a common goal: improving skills and learning as much as possible.

We encourage you to swap tables throughout the day and meet as many new friends as you can. You will learn from them as much as you will from the presenters.

I've got to be a part of this community. Sign me up for The Readers Studio.

There'll be Tarot treasures galore…

Admit it — you love Tarot shopping! Well, so do we! And it wouldn't be a Readers Studio without our Merchant Faire.

Yes, the Tarot Garden will be back this year, armed with a hefty selection of decks and merchandise to fawn over and splurge on. As one of the largest (if not the largest) independent Tarot merchants online, The Tarot Garden's inventory is legendary and their customer service is second-to-none. We're thrilled to welcome them back to the Merchant Faire in 2008.

The lovely Jeannette Roth will be there with a stunning collection of decks, many of them hard to find. She'll be bringing a selection of around 150 different decks from around the world, give or take, almost all with full hands-on demonstrators that can be perused so you can be sure to find the deck or decks that are exactly right for you. But she can't pack her entire inventory so if you'd like to see a particular deck or decks at the Tarot Garden table (even if it's just to look and not to buy), please drop her a line at jkr@tarotgarden.com and let her know. She wants to make sure to have the decks on hand that YOU want to see. Jeannette is a veritable fountain of knowledge when it comes to tarot decks so be sure to stop by and talk with her!

Our vendor list is still in the works, but rest assured, there will be plenty of goodies in store and on sale. So be sure to bring some spending money with you — and leave a little room in your suitcase…

If your budget is tight, don't worry! You'll still have plenty of chances to bring home some treasures with our Free Swap table and Tarot give-aways. Last year, the Free Swap table was bigger than ever and our give-aways seemed to never end as vendors, celebs, and your fellow attendees got in on the act, donating some fabulous prizes at the last minute.

I'm in it for the loot! Sign me up for The Readers Studio!

… and the return of the Celebrity Psychic Fair!

Yep, it's back! The Celebrity Psychic Fair returns!

Over the years, we've amassed quite a line-up of celebrity presenters — Tarot heavy-hitters like Mary Greer, Rachel Pollack, Robert Place, Corrine Kenner and more. Here's something you might not know: every year, we invite those celebrities back again for another round as attendees. Many of them take us up on our offer. Some of them return year after year! And they offer up their own skills as readers to you in our Psychic fair.

Imagine getting personal guidance and advice from the author of your favorite Tarot book or the creator of your favorite deck. Now imagine getting a second reading from another Tarot hero who just happens to be sitting two tables away. It's all par for the course at The Readers Studio.

As of this writing, it's too early to announce who will be there in 2008. We'll update this page as news pours in, so be sure to check back and find out who's coming!

MORE BIG NEWS!
Join us for the release of
The Secret Language of Tarot

The 2008 Readers Studio marks another milestone for us. Our second book, The Secret Language of Tarot, will make its debut!

If you've studied with us before, you know that the imagery of the Rider-Waite deck is a topic that The Tarot School explores in depth. The Secret Language of Tarot (Red Wheel/Weiser) is our next contribution to the study of symbols in Tarot.

Unlike most volumes that tackle Tarot symbology, The Secret Language of Tarot is a course of study, not a dictionary. It's not the same material we cover in our correspondence course, and while we illustrate the material with the Rider-Waite, almost all of it can be applied to any deck. And it can stand alone — you don't even have to be a Tarot reader to enjoy it and benefit from this fascinating book.

If the pictures on the cards intrigue you even a little, you'll want to devour this book the second you get your hands on it. With plenty of copies fresh off the press, we'll make sure you can do just that — before anyone else.

The Readers Studio promises to be our biggest and best event we've thrown to date. With that in mind…

Take a good look at all you get!

Three hands-on instructional workshops with James Wells, Thalassa and Kevin Quigley. You'll learn cutting-edge techniques and all-new material that you can immediately add to your current Tarot repertoire.

Two Breakfast Roundtables with Corrine Kenner and Robert M. Place, featuring yet more practical techniques to boost your Tarot reading skills.

Hands-on practice sessions during every workshop, so you'll get to apply what you learn right away — and retain it.

A Foundation Reading, so you'll see how far you've come.

The Celebrity Psychic Fair on Friday and Saturday, where our presenters and past celebrity guests (many of whom always return as attendees) read for YOU!

Access to presenters and celebrity guests all weekend — ask them your most pressing Tarot questions, learn an extra secret or get feedback on your readings.

Opportunities to meet with publishing professionals — let them help you get your book or deck published!

A hotel ballroom full of Tarot lovers just like you for networking, socializing, tons of reading practice, late night passionate chats, and impromptu adventures.

The Merchant Faire, filled with hard-to-find Tarot treasures.

A full selection of Tarot decks in the Merchant Faire provided by popular online Tarot shop, The Tarot Garden.

Free Swap table — trade your old deck or book for something better, free!

Giveaways of Tarot School treats and other fabulous prizes.

A beautiful parchment Certificate of Advanced Tarot Training to add to your portfolio or frame for your office.

BONUS! Free gift from Llewellyn! What will you find in your goody bag? Come to The Readers Studio to find out!

On top of all that, the comfort and luxury of the Sheraton Newark Airport Hotel promises to make the 2008 Readers Studio a true Tarot vacation!

You'll enjoy all the hotel has to offer, including more space, more amenities, more light, more places to entertain, great food, and endless pots of amazing coffee and tea. After riding high all day long on the energy of your fellow readers, the healing energy of the hotel will relax you. You'll collapse in a comfortable bed to awaken refreshed, recharged, and ready to go again.

Remember, past attendees have said that they got the equivalent of months of training out of this one event. You'll be working with these techniques for a long time to come. That alone makes the Readers Studio fee of $235 one of the best investments you can make, in yourself, your Tarot practice, and in your business if you have one. And don't forget — almost all your expenses may be tax-deductible as professional training! (Consult your tax advisor.)

I'm not missing this for the world! Sign me up NOW!

Time to get in on the action!

First, mark your calendars. The 2008 Readers Studio begins on Thursday, April 24 and ends on Sunday, April 27. The Studio officially kicks off on Friday, but remember, you're going to want to get in on Thursday this year to get ready and to enjoy the pre-conference class. So get out your pens and “pencil it in” right now.

Next, call the hotel and reserve your space NOW to arrive on Thursday for the special room rate. To guarantee our special negotiated discount rate of $139, call the hotel at 1-800-325-3535. Mention that you're with the Tarot School Readers Studio. (Note: This rate is not available online.)

After you've made the call, send us an email at tarot@tarotschool.com to let us know that you're coming and, if you want to join us, we'll put you down on the list for the Advanced Birth Cards class. Use our order form to pay, or email us with your questions regarding payment arrangements.

Increased costs means that we had to make a slight price increase this year. To make it easier, we're offering a payment plan. Email or call us at 800-804-2184 before November 30, 2007 and make 4 payments of $59 each (credit card only).

But there's something you really need to know. If you have even an inkling of joining us this year, please don't wait to sign up. We only have a limited number of rooms in our block and there is no guarantee that we can negotiate more.

After the overwhelming success of The Readers Studio last year, the buzz is already spreading like wildfire. We've stretched our borders a lot this year, with new fans from all over the world telling all of their friends…

To make sure you don't miss out, sign up now.

Mark your calendars and get ready for
the best Readers Studio yet!

The very best place for Tarot readers to learn, share, connect and grow is going to be better than ever next year. With our electrifying line-up, our gorgeous new space and all the extras we've got planned (with more being added constantly), The 2008 Readers Studio is sure to be the best event we've ever held.

It won't be the same without you. Please join us!

Remember, April 24 – 27 are the dates for the next Readers Studio. Mark your calendar now and click on the link below to register. We'll see you there!

Bright Blessings,

Ruth Ann & Wald Amberstone
Directors, The Tarot School

PS: Remember, when you sign up for The Readers Studio, you'll get no less than three in-depth, practical sessions with James Wells, Thalassa and Kevin Quigley. You'll also learn loads of new techniques from Robert M. Place and Corrine Kenner at two breakfast roundtables. We guarantee that you'll add powerful, practical strategies to your current repertoire and you'll see the improvement in your reading skills before you go home.

PPS: Be a part of our growing community! Everyone who comes to the Readers Studio wants to come back. We have evangelists all over the world and many of our past celebrity presenters return each year (they're always invited). Don't miss out!

PPPS: Remember, our new hotel is bigger, brighter, and bursting at the seams with incredible energy. We'll have tons more amenities, including a spacious ballroom, plenty of comfy nooks for readings and entertaining, comfortable rooms and coffee throughout the conference. And don't forget the pool and the cocktail party! Please be sure to scroll up and read the full story behind the new hotel and the reading that lead us there. Want to see more pictures? Check out the slide show on our special hotel page.

PPPPS: Keep reading for all the nitty-gritty details, including our schedule, presenter bios, more hotel information and details on the brand new study group sessions we've got lined up — now you have more choices than ever!

I'm IN. Sign me up for The Readers Studio!

Our stunning poster for The 2008 Readers Studio was created by none other than Ciro Marchetti.

Ciro is a visionary artist and up-and-coming Tarot luminary. His very first Tarot deck, the Gilded Tarot, is a bestseller and favorite of the Tarot community. The Gilded Tarot was voted the #1 most popular Tarot deck in 2004 by Aeclectic.net visitors and the second most popular deck of all time.

No stranger to awards and accolades, Ciro's breathtaking design and illustration work has earned him no fewer than four wins in MacWorld's Digital Art Competition (including a 'Best of Show' nod in 2001), five GURU Awards from the National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP), a Worldwide Digital Canvas Award in 2006 and a Worldwide Photoshop Award in 2007.

Ciro's work has taken him all over the world, including Europe and South America. He now resides in Florida, where he pursues his passion for illustration, runs his own design firm and teaches digital imagery at the Fort Lauderdale Art Institute.

We're incredibly honored to have Ciro on our team this year and can't wait for you to meet him (yes, he'll be there!) and see this poster up close and at full size. And yes, there will be prints for sale, so plan on taking one home! It's the perfect memento of the event, one you're sure to enjoy all year.

BONUS!
FREE Teleseminar!

Want some immediate gratification? You don't have to wait until April to add to your treasure trove of Tarot technique. As a special thank you for signing up, we'll give you a two-hour FREE teleseminar on MP3 — right away! You can listen to it on your computer, or load it onto your iPod for Tarot on the go! You'll even get specially prepared class notes.

Birth of a Question: From Answers to True Revelation

As Tarot readers, we are constantly faced with questions. Our querents ask,

“Will I get a new job?”

“What's up with that raise I've been waiting for?”

“When will I meet… the one?”

“Am I going to sell my house by the end of the summer?”

“What does that hot guy three cubicles over really think of me?”

While these questions are always important in the here-and-now, they can seem mundane and sometimes even trivial in the grand scheme of things. But don't be fooled. Even the most mundane question has staggering, life-altering implications.

How can this be? It's because all questions are merely old questions in a new form. Every question we ever ask can be traced back to a deeper question, a question that drives us and perhaps even rules us. Each of us has only a half-dozen or so of such questions in our lifetime. Because they have such a direct bearing on our actions, they are the most important questions of all.

In this transforming class, you'll learn a powerful technique to uncover the biggest questions of any life. You'll see them clearly… and you'll learn where they began. The Birth of a Question technique will make you aware not only of the questions, but the patterns that go with them. Most importantly, you'll begin to find the answers.

Awareness of the big questions gives the questioner a tremendous power of choice. Use the Birth of a Question technique yourself or share it with your clients to take control of what truly matters most.

When we process your registration, we'll send you the link to where you can download your FREE bonus.

Sign me up and send me my free class — NOW!

EXTRA!
More Night Owl Study Sessions!
All-New Choices!

We've expanded the offerings because the after-hours study groups are more popular than ever! We've got six classes (over two nights) for you to choose from. Explore cards and decks in depth, sharpen Tarot-related skills or discover new and effective ways to build your Tarot business. At just $35 each (payable directly to the teachers), study groups are a super way to get the targeted kind of information you need.

Develop Your Intuitive Skills with Prudence J.M. Theriault

Intuition is an important resource in your business and personal life, and, as readers know, it's a must when working with Tarot. Like a muscle, intuition needs exercise to become strong, flexible and reliable. In this class, Prudence will help you get in touch with your intuition and guide you along the path to developing it. You'll do a guided imagery exercise to help you “meet” your intuition and by the end of the evening, you'll perform intuitive Psychometry readings for each other. Please bring a notebook and an open mind.

Prudence J.M. Theriault is a certified Tarot Master/Instructor and certified Hypnotherapist. She has been practicing the Tarot since 1995 and Hypnosis since 1996. She teaches in Hudson, New York and gives Tarot and Psychometry readings professionally in Lenox, Massachusetts.

Reading for Writers with Shawn Nacol
Learn how Tarot can provide uncanny inspiration, information, and professional guidance for any artistic endeavor. We'll go beyond “writer's spreads” and look at Tarot's unique power to explore fictional worlds and manage the nuts-and-bolts business of selling them. Topics include Structure in a Box, Trumping Blocks, Dealing for Deals and if time permits, Shawn's infamous Tarot Pitch. This class will be useful not only for people who write but for anyone who has clients involved in creative projects.

Shawn Nacol has been writing professionally in theatre and film for 14 years and using Tarot for 23. He also teaches classes in playwriting and magick (no, really) at a private school for gifted kids in New York City.

Painless Tarot Marketing: Attract Your Perfect Clients and Build Your Business with Ease with Elizabeth Genco

Don't have all the clients you want, let alone the money you need? Hate marketing your services and “selling yourself”? Yes, you can consistently fill up your dance card without compromising your identity, your integrity, or feeling like you're selling your soul. Elizabeth Genco will share 7 easy steps to painlessly and effectively marketing your Tarot services based on your most important selling point — you! Learn how to tap into free advertising, write ads that attract a flood of new clients and work your referral network, all while staying firmly in your comfort zone. You'll get time-tested marketing know-how tailored for your special needs as a psychic professional. Don't miss this unique business-building opportunity!

Once petrified of marketing, Elizabeth Genco is a writer and Tarotist who helps businesses grow with copywriting and direct response marketing strategies. Having witnessed marketing's transformative power first hand, she delights in arming Tarotists, psychics, and metaphysical entrepreneurs with the skills they need to succeed.

Putting Your Wisdom into Words: Be Smart About How You Start with Lisa Finander

Many people have the dream of becoming a published writer but don't know where to begin. This is especially true for authors that write in the mind body spirit areas. There are books and classes that focus on the nuts and bolts of writing for other genres, but what if you want to write your first tarot, shamanism, or astrology book?

Good ideas are not enough to keep your proposal from entering the reject pile. Publishers and agents today do not have the time or resources to assist authors in developmentally editing their work, and the person reviewing your submission may possess little if any knowledge in your specialty area. Yet right from the start, there are ways for authors to position their projects that greatly improve their chances of getting an editor's attention. Get an inside view into the world of publishing mind body spirit books and discover how to re-think your manuscript with fresh eyes and ideas.

Lisa Finander is the former Tarot acquisitions editor for Llewellyn Publications. She currently works with mind/body/spirit writers to prepare their manuscripts for publication.

Imagination & Illusion: Seeking the Seven of Cups with Carolyn Guss

This workshop explores the Seven of Cups, quite possibly the Minor Arcana's most enigmatic card. You'll explore the images on the card, its esoteric symbolism and its connections to other cards, all while learning how to get useful information when it appears in a reading and avoid its common pitfalls. While the basis for the class is the Rider-Waite-Smith version of the Seven of Cups, you'll add to your understanding by investigating the card as it appears in other popular decks. Carolyn will also share a specialized spread of her own design, which you can use yourself or with clients.

Carolyn Guss is a Certified Professional Tarot Reader and Instructor who has been working with the cards for nearly 3 decades and has been reading and teaching Tarot since 1990. She teaches Tarot privately and in classes in the Philadelphia area.

Secrets of the Sacred Rose Tarot with Johanna Gargiulo-Sherman

26 years ago, the Sacred Rose Tarot was one of the very first decks published by a then new entrepreneur in the card and game field, Stuart R. Kaplan of U.S. Games Systems. This workshop is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the unique gifts of its deck with its creator, Johanna Gargiulo-Sherman.

The Sacred Rose was especially designed to enhance the Tarotist's intuitive and psychic abilities during the Tarot reading. With her keen sense of humor and drama, Johanna will acquaint you with the power of The Sacred Rose Tarot to focus on matters such as paths of initiation, the creative process, the intuitive response and psychic phenomena, and Tarot's deeper meanings. Bring along your copy of The Sacred Rose Tarot or purchase a copy from Johanna.

Johanna Gargiulo-Sherman is the author and artist of The Sacred Rose Tarot and its accompanying book, Guide to the Sacred Rose Tarot.

This is just what I've been looking for! Sign me up now!

The Schedule

5:00pm – 8:30pm

Thursday Pre-Conference Class

10:00am – 11:30am	Registration & Merchant Faire Open
11:30am – 1:30pm	Opening Session — Foundation Readings
1:30pm – 3:00pm	Hotel check-in and Lunch break
3:00pm – 6:30pm	Workshop #1
7:00pm – 9:00pm	Cocktail Party
9:00pm – 11:00pm	Celebrity Psychic Fair & Study Groups

7:30am – 8:45am	Breakfast Roundtable w/ Robert M. Place
9:00am – 12:30pm	Workshop #2
12:30pm – 3:00pm	Lunch break
3:00pm – 6:30pm	Workshop #3
6:30pm – 9:00pm	Dinner break
9:00pm – 11:00pm	Celebrity Psychic Fair & Study Groups

7:30am – 8:45am	Breakfast Roundtable w/ Corrine Kenner
9:00am – 11:00am	Practice Session
11:00am – 1:00pm	Lunch break and Hotel check-out
1:00pm – 3:00pm	Closing Session

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Teachers and Hosts

Although it is a Readers Studio tradition not to reveal the topics of the main presentations in advance (this gives our instructors the greatest flexibility to bring you their most cutting-edge material), here's a little more information about our featured presenters:

James Wells is a Toronto-based consultant, teacher, and facilitator devoted to merging soul and strategy. Through tools and processes such as tarot, reiki, council circle, and journal writing, he and his clients and students are inspired to become more of who they really are.

Tarot has been a part of James' life since 1979. His insightful, down-to-earth, proactive style makes him a popular practitioner and presenter at home and abroad.

James' self-published book, Tarot for Manifestation, is an enjoyable journey to creating a fulfilling life. He is also a contributor to most of Llewellyn's Tarot Reader almanacs.

In his “me time,” James enjoys writing, reading, walking, and good martinis.

Thalassa is the producer of the San Francisco Bay Area Tarot Symposium (the oldest established permanent floating Tarot Symposium in the world) and founder of the Daughters of Divination (DOD). She has been living, working and playing with the Tarot for almost 40 years (she was an infant prodigy).

She is also active in the production of Pagan and Divination events across the country, and her writing has been published in a wide range of publications, including every Llewellyn Tarot Reader ever published. She has been involved in standup comedy, choreography, and stage management, and currently teaches improvisation and physical characterization for performers of Renaissance and Victorian festivals.

Her other interests include historical recreation, needlework, and plotting global domination. Thalassa lives in San Francisco with her long-suffering fiance, a herd of semi-feral dust bunnies, a sword collection, and more Tarot cards than is safe to assemble in one place. She is working on a book (on Tarot, of all things).

Kevin Quigley picked up his first Tarot deck at the age of fourteen. After a summer of unnerving all his friends, he promptly lost it.

Nearly ten years later, he decided that the Tarot would be a great source of inspiration for a set of paintings. He quickly realized that to do it justice would require some serious study. Once the study started, he never looked back.

Among other things, Kevin is a composer and performer, Feng Shui practitioner, graphic designer and artist, and teacher. He finds that his Tarot work feeds those activities just as they feed his work with the Tarot. Kevin prefers to take an eclectic and pragmatic approach to his spiritual practice, which he refers to as Spiritual Pragmatism; finding that a variety of perspectives can be employed to compare, contrast, conflict and corroborate each other.

Kevin lives in central Vermont.

Ruth Ann & Wald Amberstone are co-founders of The Tarot School which they began in 1995.

Together they teach, write, speak and publish about tarot on all levels from divination to psychology to esotericism and magical practice. They are perpetual pioneers of new tarot techniques and remain lifelong tarot students.

They are authors of The Tarot School Correspondence Course which has been enjoyed by students all over the world since 1998. Their first book, Tarot Tips: 78 Practical Techniques to Enhance Your Tarot Reading Skills is part of Llewellyn's "Special Topics in Tarot" series for readers and teachers. Articles by the Amberstones have also been published in most of Llewellyn's Tarot Reader almanacs. Their new book, The Secret Language of Tarot (Red Wheel/Weiser) will make its debut at this event.

Wald and Ruth Ann have also organized successful tarot events including the 2002 New York Tarot Festival and the annual Readers Studio which began in 2003.

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The Hotel

The Sheraton Newark Airport Hotel is a luxurious hotel in Newark, New Jersey with a friendly staff and many personal touches.

Located directly across from Newark Liberty International Airport, the hotel offers prompt, complimentary shuttle service to the Airport and is only 12 miles from New York City. It features a full service restaurant serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner as well as a bar/lounge serving “Nite Lite” menus. On-site parking is available for $8 per day.

Sheraton Newark Airport Hotel (Visit their website for lots more info!)

Free airport transportation
Indoor heated pool and whirlpool
Complimentary 24-hour fitness facility
Business center / services
Game room
Wheelchair access
In-room data port
Bistro 128 Restaurant
Trophies Lounge
Lots of comfy seating for networking and socializing

Be sure to see our hotel slide show!

The hotel is just 12 miles from Manhattan!

Click Here for New York City tourist information!


Costs

Tuition


$235 tuition for the full three-day program.
Payment must be received in full to reserve your seat.
The Readers Studio is an integrated learning experience
so single day passes are not available.

Optional: $65 tuition for the Advanced Birth Cards
pre-conference class with the Amberstones on Thursday, 4/24
payable in advance.

Optional: $35 tuition per study group,
payable directly to the teacher at the time of the class.


Hotel


The group rate is $139 per night.
Reservations must be made by calling the Sheraton reservation
center at 1-800-325-3535. Mention that you're with the
Tarot School Readers Studio. (Note: This rate is not available online.)

Cancellation Policy: You may receive a full refund less a $50
administration fee if cancelled in writing by April 1, 2008.
After April 1, there will be no refunds.

We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express,
checks and money orders.

*** Don't Forget ***
The Readers Studio is Tax Deductible
for Tarot Professionals!









Photos of the Sheraton Newark Airport Hotel by Ruth Ann Amberstone.

Card images are from the Universal Waite Tarot Deck,
Copyright US Games Inc.





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