Freeland gift shop celebrates 25 years of spirituality

Whether it’s the color of a scarf, a scent in a candle or the various crystals and stones scattered throughout her shop, Llynya Carey is constantly on the lookout for something that nourishes the spirit.

For the past 25 years, her eponymous gift shop, Llynya’s, has been an anchor in the Freeland commercial district.

“I’ve watched toddlers grow up and disappear … and then people come back after years,” she said. “I’ve watched many businesses come and go, many restaurants come and go.”

In celebration of the store’s 25th anniversary, Carey plans to host Llynya’s Summer Faire from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Aug. 17. Local holistic healers will provide readings of all sorts, including tarot, psychic and oracle cards. Henna tattoos and energy healing will also be available. Call 360-331-3696 to schedule appointments in advance.

During her time on South Whidbey, Carey has witnessed a growing appreciation for different kinds of spirituality.

Her past as a social worker – a profession she had before moving to the island and opening her own business – has prepared her to support people, whether it’s a person looking for the perfect gift or someone searching for some deeper meaning in their lives.

“If we have the time, I can spend the time and talk with them a little bit and then they can find their way,” Carey said.

The soft-spoken shopkeeper offers crystal readings and one-on-one “SoulLight” sessions for individuals seeking guidance on their own spiritual journeys, during which Carey interprets a message from the soul and uses a crystal singing bowl to bring the listener on a guided meditation.

But even for those who don’t subscribe to the healing properties of the crystals on display in Llynya’s, there’s something undeniably mesmerizing about the different colors and shapes.

Amethyst from Turkey, quartz from Uruguay, volcanic glass from Arizona. Gnomes, dragons, angels, skulls. Onyx, pink, gold and so much purple, Carey’s favorite color. It’s even the same shade as her hair.

Though he’s not for sale, there’s also a cardboard cutout of “Lord of the Rings” character Aragorn.

“I have people come in and pose by him, I have dogs come in and bark at him,” Carey said. “He was a gift from a customer a long time ago. At Christmastime I came into the shop and he was standing right there and he had ribbons all over him.”

She’s open to incorporating all sorts of energies, whether it’s a likeness of the Ranger of the North or pictures of fairies.

“I’m more eclectic in my spirituality and the things that I’m interested in, and I like to have that show up,” she said.

Tere Baker, a longtime customer and reconnective energy healer, marveled at Llynya’s ability to stay open for so many years.

“This longevity is easily attributed to proprietor, Llynya Carey’s, dedication, creativity, valuing her clientele, loving her shop and being of service, her tenacity, and a huge dose of faith and trust that ‘all works out’ has helped her through thick, thin, ups, downs, lockdowns and all arounds,” Baker said.

Carey attributed her loyal customer base to keeping things going during the COVID-19 pandemic, when so many other small businesses struggled.

“A lot of luck and a lot of love,” she said.

Special anniversary sales will continue through August with storewide sales on the day of Llynya’s Summer Faire. Currently, there is a 25% discount on any one item over $50, though Carey has also been known to give other discounts on the spot.

Llynya’s is located at 1679 Main St., Suite C, in Freeland. For more information, visit llynyas.com.