Today we’d like to introduce you to Chinggay Labrador.
Hi Chinggay, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started Practical Magic in 2016 as a place online to channel my growing interest in the tarot—reading cards, collecting decks, and using the practice as a way to self-reflect. My interest in tarot came years ago as a college student; but I only took it seriously in 2012-2013 as an annex to my yoga teacher training and meditation practice. Today, Practical Magic still acts as a container for my practice. I now do readings for other people, have designed, created, and produced tarot and oracle decks, and have come up with different collaborations and products featuring the practical and magical nature of tarot.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been relatively smooth because I never really put too many expectations and goal posts for Practical Magic. Its purpose was really to house my interest and curiosity for the tarot. My biggest struggle, so far, has been people selling knock-offs of my decks.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Before tarot came into my work life, I was (and still am) a writer. I worked in publishing and freelanced for publications in Manila and abroad. I worked in teen magazines , lifestyle websites, as well as design/architecture-centric magazines as my background is in architecture. Aside from Practical Magic, I’m most proud of the trilogy of books I published in 2011-2012 called “Popped.”
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I’ve worked freelance for most of my life so I’ve already developed practices on my own that help me with routines and productivity. I usually just stick to a paper planner rather than subscribing to apps! I like following independent artists on YouTube for inspiration.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.practicalmagic.co
- Instagram: practical_magical
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@practicalmagic1764
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/show/0FvX0zZ35ONRGfTsSkAsow?si=f2d1e8e172f448f8
