by Gisele Rinaldi Siebold

A cozy, warm, inviting space, just a few steps up from a cobblestone walk in downtown Lancaster, Radiance takes visitors into its cocoon of loveliness. Filled with fair trade world crafts, wearable art, devotional and organic items, products handmade by women, jewelry, clothing, organic herbs and herbal products, personal altar items and herbal and spirituality books, all items are intentionally chosen by owner and community herbalist, Sarah Preston and her daughter, Kara Kriner.

“We are intentional in having the shop be a safe, peaceful place where members of the community feel welcome,” she shares. “And, we are also intentional about the products and items that we offer for sale. We believe artisans should be paid a fair wage for their work and the beauty of the creative process that made the item is recognized and celebrated through the sale of the item. Our shop is filled with many different types of goods that are helpful, practical, useful, beautiful and inspiring.”

Helpful, practical, useful, beautiful and inspiring classes and workshops are also offered in the classroom space just beyond a doorway that houses the Full Circle Susquehanna ecofeminist library. Classes in art, meditation, yoga, herbs, Goddess spirituality, shamanism, tarot and reiki are offered. Special events and workshops include regular kirtans, small concerts, Dances of Universal Peace, vibrational sound therapy, vision board creation and much more.

The space provides a place for the community to gather, something that brings Preston much joy. “Knowing that members of our local community and surrounding communities find their way to Radiance fills us up with positive energy,” she enthuses. “We have worked diligently over the years to create a place where people feel like they matter; where they can come to relax and spend time in our library or enjoy a therapeutic massage or reiki session; experience an herbal consultation to help them along their wellness journey; and meet like-minded friends who welcome connection.”

Being in her presence makes it clear that gathering together to form a strong community is something that means a great deal to Preston. The class and event offerings are also brought with intention because she and her staff are mindful of what visitors and customers are passionate about learning and doing.

“We enjoy the classes and workshops we offer, and we are happy that others enjoy them as well. Our approach has been to offer experiences that teach and encourage because we respect where participants are as they travel on their individual journeys. Collectively, we join together to inspire and be inspired,” says Preston.