The Chief of Staff: An Author Event with Anne Marie Otanez

An Insider's Perspective to Becoming a Strategic Partner in the Executive Suite

Thursday, March 27, 2025 7:00 - 8:30pm

Join us for a highly-anticipated book reading and signing with the astounding Anne Marie Otanez.

About the Book:

The Chief of Staff: An Insider's Perspective to Becoming a Strategic Partner in the Executive Suite by Anne Marie Otanez provides an in-depth exploration of the multifaceted role of a Chief of Staff (CoS) in modern organizations. The book is structured as both a guide and a reference for individuals who aspire to serve in this capacity, as well as for those currently in the role seeking to enhance their effectiveness. The Chief of Staff, as presented in the book, serves as a strategic partner, advisor, and operational leader, tasked with ensuring the smooth execution of executive-level goals while navigating the complexities of organizational dynamics.

Otanez draws from her personal experiences as a CoS to outline the responsibilities and expectations associated with the position. She emphasizes that the role is deeply collaborative and requires a blend of operational acumen, leadership skills, and emotional intelligence. A key theme throughout the book is the notion of the CoS as a "force multiplier," someone who amplifies the impact of the executive by managing priorities, addressing conflicts, and fostering alignment across departments.

The book is divided into several sections, each focusing on core competencies such as strategic planning, decision-making, communication, and leadership. Otanez delves into the importance of mastering operational excellence-ensuring that all processes run smoothly and efficiently-and developing strong partnerships within the organization. The ability to anticipate challenges, think critically, and adapt quickly in ambiguous environments is presented as central to the role's success.

Otanez also highlights the CoS's role in handling vulnerability fatigue, managing the emotional and interpersonal demands of high-stakes environments, and maintaining a balance between personal well-being and professional responsibilities. She stresses the importance of building trust with executives and peers, as this trust serves as the foundation for effective collaboration and influence.

Key pillars of the CoS role, such as the ability to act as a trusted advisor, a liaison between teams, and a gatekeeper of the executive's time and priorities, are explored in detail. Additionally, the book addresses common challenges that Chiefs of Staff face, such as managing ambiguity, handling difficult conversations, and making decisions with limited information. Otanez provides actionable tips and strategies for overcoming these challenges, drawing on real-world examples from her career.

Throughout the book, Otanez emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement. She encourages Chiefs of Staff to remain adaptable, build robust internal networks, and continuously refine their skills to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of executive leadership. The book concludes with practical tools, including checklists and frameworks, to help Chiefs of Staff excel in their roles and drive long-term organizational success.

With its blend of practical advice, personal anecdotes, and professional insights, The Chief of Staff: An Insider's Perspective is an essential resource for anyone looking to understand or advance in the CoS role, offering a blueprint for becoming a strategic partner in the executive suite.

About the Author:

Anne Marie Otañez is an accomplished Chief of Staff and author of The Chief of Staff: An Insider's Guide to Becoming a Strategic Partner in the Executive Suite. With over 20 years of leadership experience, including a tenure at Microsoft, Anne Marie has navigated the complexities of executive roles with resilience and grace. As a Black woman and daughter of immigrants, she brings a unique and empathetic perspective to leadership, emphasizing the importance of organizational alignment, team trust, and personal well-being. She is the Founder of Own Your Power with Anne Marie, an organization focused on Executive Coaching with an eye to the Chief of Staff domain as well as the creator of The Chief of Staff Academy.

For more about Anne Marie, visit her website: www.annemarieotanez.com

Storytime in the Children's Nook!

Every Tuesday at 11:30am and 3:30pm

Each Tuesday, we’ll read one story for the littles in the morning and another after school lets out for the older elementary-age kids. It’s completely free and no signup is needed, just pop on by and join us in the Children’s Nook while we dive into our favorite tale of the week!

Tuesdays:

11:30am – Storytime for the Littles

3:30pm – Story for the Elementary Ages

New Moon Alchemy: A Ritual for Reset and Renewal with Melissa Lyon West

Thursday, March 20, 2025 7:00 - 8:30pm

In a world spinning with chaos and overwhelm, there’s a call—a sacred invitation—to gather, rise, and reclaim your power. We will breathe through the weight of the world, and alchemize their grief, rage, and longing into something potent, something transformational. Now more than ever, we must return to our power, not just for ourselves, but for the communities we shape and the future we summon.

This isn’t just another New Moon circle. It’s a movement—a space where ancient rituals meet modern desires, where doubt turns into confidence, and where sisterhood empowers you to break free and move boldly toward the life you crave.

Why This Circle is Different:

Each New Moon offers us a blank canvas, but this gathering is about taking real steps toward what you want. This is where we alchemize the heavy into hopeful action - this is where sacred ritual meets powerful action.

This Circle Is Calling You If:

You’re longing for clarity but feel stuck on how to move forward.

You feel a deep pull to connect with a powerful community of like-minded women.

Your soul is craving a clear vision, grounded action, and a life of magic.

What Awaits You in the Circle:

✧ 60 Minutes of Reconnection & Breakthroughs

Through guided rituals, breath work , and intentions, you’ll uncover what’s holding you back—and shift it.

✧ Your Personal Power Vessel: Spell Jar Creation

Craft a spell jar filled with intention and momentum. Think of it as a magical catalyst for your dreams.

✧ The Witch's Roadmap

Unlock transformative journal prompts and visualizations that bridge the gap between dreaming and doing, turning stuck energy into forward motion.

Why This is More Than a Circle:

This is not about escape—it’s about taking your power back. Together, we’ll transform hesitation into action, intention into reality, and dreams into a path you finally feel ready to walk.

We will end the event with a book signing of Moon Magic: A Lunar Guide to Achieving Goals Without Burnout

About the Book:

Exhausted? Teetering on the edge of burnout, yet still chasing dreams and goals?

There is an easier way!

In Moon Magic: A Book of Rituals, you'll learn about combining the power and wisdom of cycles, rituals, and goal setting to achieve your dreams while avoiding burnout.

This step-by-step guide shows you exactly how in a beautiful, easy-to-understand format, empowering you to create a magical life!

Inside Moon Magic, you'll discover

• how syncing your goals with nature can help you shift from endless productivity to mindful, intentional living

• rituals and spells to help achieve your goals

• actionable steps to prevent overwhelm

• journaling prompts to help you deeply understand what you truly want on this journey

• inspiring artwork to enhance your experience

and much more!

About the Author:

Melissa is the founder of The Awakened Witch and author of Moon Magic: A Lunar Guide to Achieving Goals Without Burnout. Blending strategy with witchcraft, she helps women align with the cycles of nature to build a soulful foundation for life and business. Through rituals, coaching, and community, Melissa guides witches and wild women to reclaim their power, manifest their dreams, and move through the world with magic in every step.

You can learn more about Melissa and The Awakened Witch on her website, https://www.theawakenedwitch.com

Psychic Fair

Wednesday March 19, 2025 6pm - 9pm

Come experience readings from one or more of our amazingly gifted psychics. $25 for 20 minutes. Call or stop in to book your time slot! (801) 322-1162

THIS MONTH’S READERS:

DIXIE: Palmistry https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/dixie

MILA: Tarot, Oracle, Astrology https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/mila

AMBER: Tarot https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/amber

Storytime in the Children's Nook!

Every Tuesday at 11:30am and 3:30pm

Each Tuesday, we’ll read one story for the littles in the morning and another after school lets out for the older elementary-age kids. It’s completely free and no signup is needed, just pop on by and join us in the Children’s Nook while we dive into our favorite tale of the week!

Tuesdays:

11:30am – Storytime for the Littles

3:30pm – Story for the Elementary Ages

Writing Workshop Series: Nature Writing Workshop

Bringing together the natural world and the written word.

Thursday March 13, 7-8:30pm

Join us for an inspiring and fun evening of nature-focused prompts and writing exercises.

This is a free community event open to all, no need to sign up in advance. Please bring a notebook and a pen (or pencil, or crayon, or anything your heart desires that will make the marks on the page).

Storytime in the Children's Nook!

Every Tuesday at 11:30am and 3:30pm

Each Tuesday, we’ll read one story for the littles in the morning and another after school lets out for the older elementary-age kids. It’s completely free and no signup is needed, just pop on by and join us in the Children’s Nook while we dive into our favorite tale of the week!

Tuesdays:

11:30am – Storytime for the Littles

3:30pm – Story for the Elementary Ages

A Journey into Miracles and Inner Healing: An Evening with Nikyla Maria

Thursday, March 6, 2025 7:00 - 8:30pm

Join us for a transformative evening with acclaimed author, healer, and creator of the Inner Child Oracle Cards, Nikyla Maria. This special event will explore the wisdom and inspiration behind her latest book, Breathe Deep & Plan on Miracles, as well as her profound Inner Child Oracle Cards. Through guided meditation, meaningful readings, and interactive experiences, Nikyla will lead you on a journey of self-discovery and inner healing, inviting you to connect with your authentic self and embrace the magic of the present moment.

Guests will have the unique opportunity to learn more about Nikyla’s healing journey, participate in a live oracle card pull, and engage in a heartfelt Q&A session. Come with an open heart, leave feeling deeply connected, inspired, and empowered to embody the miracles within.

This evening promises to be a beautiful, soul-nourishing experience for anyone seeking peace, healing, and a deeper connection to self. Book signing to follow.

About Nikyla Marie:

Nikyla Maria is a recognized expert in self-mastery and inner child healing, known for her transformative work with clients worldwide. She is a published author, divine channel, speaker, and creator of the popular Inner Child Oracle Deck. With over 15 years of experience in leadership, education, and performance, she has guided countless creatives, thought leaders, and industry stars to their next level of personal and professional growth. Nikyla has touched countless lives with her teachings, helping others awaken to their inherent divinity and live in alignment with their highest selves.

Her journey in self-mastery is deeply rooted in her own life experience working through trauma and bringing light to the darkness mixed with her academic background, holding a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Curriculum Design. In addition to her academic achievements, Nikyla is a certified Master Healer, Trauma-Trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) Expert, and Licensed Holistic Practitioner. Her unique combination of expertise has allowed her to develop high-performance tools and master mindset strategies that have consistently led her clients to greater productivity, creativity, and self-discipline.

Nikyla’s work is not just about individual transformation; it is a call to collective awakening. Her teachings inspire a global community to elevate their consciousness, honor their sacred journey, and contribute to the healing and evolution of humanity. Through her teachings, programs, and published works like "I Am the Villain," she invites others to embrace their authentic power, heal their inner wounds, and rise to their highest potential. Her mission is to guide humanity toward a more conscious, compassionate, and empowered existence, one person at a time.

In addition to her one-on-one work, Nikyla has hosted healing retreats across the globe and has developed a series of spiritual tools and resources, including her renowned Inner Child Oracle Cards. These cards, accompanied by a comprehensive guidebook, have become a powerful resource for those seeking to heal and connect with their inner child, with rave reviews from users who have experienced profound shifts in their lives.

Nikyla’s work is a testament to her commitment to helping others reclaim their true selves and live lives filled with purpose, joy, and inner peace. Whether through her writings, teachings, speaking engagements, or her podcast "Embodied Divinity," she continues to inspire and empower individuals on their journey of self-discovery, leading them down the path of awakening, guiding them to remember who they truly are and live in alignment with the divine purpose they carry within.

Nikyla’s work is a living embodiment of her belief in the sacredness of the human experience and the potential for divine transformation within us all. She has an unwavering commitment to helping others realize their fullest potential and contribute to a more conscious and compassionate world.

For more about Nikyla's work, including her podcast "Embodied Divinity" and her ongoing creative projects, visit her website or connect with her on social media.

The Rumi Poetry Club and Golden Braid Books presents: Spring with Rumi

Tuesday, March 4, 2025 6:30-7:30pm

Join us monthly for a mystical series of evenings celebrating Sufi Poetry.

The Rumi Poetry Club was founded by Rasoul Shams in 2007, on the occasion of the 800th anniversary of Jalâluddin Rumi’s birth. Since then, they have celebrated the poetry, inspiration, and perennial teachings of Rumi and other poets of the heart, nature, and spiritual life from around the world.

Rasoul Shams first learned of Rumi's poems in his Persian classes as a young boy in Iran. The works of Rumi and other Persian poets have been his spiritual companions for decades. He has studied and lived in India, Japan, and the USA. His books include Rumi: The Art of Loving, Rumi Essays: On the Life, Poetry, and Vision of the Greatest Persian Sufi Poet, The Words of Rumi, and Through Love Pain is Healed.

Storytime in the Children's Nook!

Every Tuesday at 11:30am and 3:30pm

Each Tuesday, we’ll read one story for the littles in the morning and another after school lets out for the older elementary-age kids. It’s completely free and no signup is needed, just pop on by and join us in the Children’s Nook while we dive into our favorite tale of the week!

Tuesdays:

11:30am – Storytime for the Littles

3:30pm – Story for the Elementary Ages

Understanding the Medicine Wheel: an introduction with Stephen Pitcher

Thursday, February 27, 2025 7:00 - 8:30pm

This is the first of a quarterly series where we will work with the Medicine Wheel or Celtic Calendar to understand behaviors in ourselves and others we encounter. We'll explore patterns in our lives and others' using this ancient knowledge. Typically, we will start with a talk and then explore this more in a Shamanic Drum Journey and share our experiences afterwards. You don't have to know or bring anything except maybe some curiosity.

About Stephen Pitcher:

Stephen has recently moved from Ireland where he studied Shamanic and Druidic practices with teachers from Mexico, Ireland, and the U.K. The Shamanic path is a nature-based Indigenous wisdom helping us to understand ourselves and rooted in compassion, simplicity, appreciation, and balance. Stephen works with individual clients and groups in healing sessions and also uses these teachings in corporate practices and coaching. He firmly believes all this work is meaningless unless it helps us as we pay the gas bill, earn a living, and nurture our relationships.

Learn more about Stephen on his website, www.stephenpitcher.ie 

Storytime in the Children's Nook!

Every Tuesday at 11:30am and 3:30pm

Each Tuesday, we’ll read one story for the littles in the morning and another after school lets out for the older elementary-age kids. It’s completely free and no signup is needed, just pop on by and join us in the Children’s Nook while we dive into our favorite tale of the week!

Tuesdays:

11:30am – Storytime for the Littles

3:30pm – Story for the Elementary Ages

Mini Workshop: Planning for your First Night, Week, and Month Home with your Newborn with Sierra Brooks

Thursday, February 20, 2025 7:00 - 8:30pm

In this mini workshop, you will learn how to prepare for your first night home with your newborn! Hear from the experienced doulas on what to expect, what you can do to set yourself up for good sleep right from the start, and how you can best support your newborn’s healthiest sleep.

Presented as part of the Bud to Blossom Postpartum Doula Event Series

When it comes to having babies, it really does take a village! Come join the Bud to Blossom Doula team for a series of workshops and learn about all the different ways you can get support once your bundle of joy arrives!

1/16/25 What is a Postpartum Doula?

2/20/25 - Mini Workshop - Planning for Your First Night, Week, and Month Home with Your Newborn

About Sierra Brooks and Bud to Blossom:

Hello, welcome to Bud to Blossom! I'm Sierra Brooks: postpartum doula, Gentle Sleep Coach, and owner of Bud to Blossom ~ a postpartum doula agency.

Our passion, mission, and focus is taking care of you so that you can be at your best to take care of your babies! We provide daytime and overnight postpartum doula support, Foodie Doula weekly meal delivery, and virtual Gentle Sleep Coaching for parents struggling with their little one's sleep. We'll ensure you eat nourishing foods that fuel your recovery, help you maximize your sleep, and provide all the guidance, resources and support you need to have the postpartum experience of your dreams!

Our doula team provides in-home services in Salt Lake City, Park City, and surrounding areas in Utah. Learn more about us at: www.bud2blossom.com

Psychic Fair

Wednesday February 19, 2025 6pm - 9pm

Come experience readings from one or more of our amazingly gifted psychics. $25 for 20 minutes. Call or stop in to book your time slot! (801) 322-1162

THIS MONTH’S READERS:

JILLIAN: Tarot and Oracle https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/jillian

ANGIE: Angel Cards https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/angie

AMBER: Tarot https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/amber

NICK: Tarot and Oracle https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/nick

Storytime in the Children's Nook!

Every Tuesday at 11:30am and 3:30pm

Each Tuesday, we’ll read one story for the littles in the morning and another after school lets out for the older elementary-age kids. It’s completely free and no signup is needed, just pop on by and join us in the Children’s Nook while we dive into our favorite tale of the week!

Tuesdays:

11:30am – Storytime for the Littles

3:30pm – Story for the Elementary Ages

Writing Workshop Series: Intentional Storytelling

A Workshop on Weaving a Story with a Purpose

Thursday February 13, 7-8:30pm

Stories have power, and we can use them to create our futures as a kind of spell that brings our hopes and dreams into reality. Join us for an inspiring evening where we will dive into what you want to bring into your life and, through prompts and a little bit of guidance, begin writing your very own magical story. Just bring your notebook, a pen, and the willingness to discover a whole new passion!

This is a free community event open to all, no need to sign up in advance. Please bring a notebook and a pen (or pencil, or crayon, or anything your heart desires that will make the marks on the page).

Storytime in the Children's Nook!

Every Tuesday at 11:30am and 3:30pm

Each Tuesday, we’ll read one story for the littles in the morning and another after school lets out for the older elementary-age kids. It’s completely free and no signup is needed, just pop on by and join us in the Children’s Nook while we dive into our favorite tale of the week!

Tuesdays:

11:30am – Storytime for the Littles

3:30pm – Story for the Elementary Ages

Inquiry for Intimacy: A workshop with Sylvia Nibley, creator of Inquiry Cards

Thursday, February 6, 2025 7:00 - 8:30pm

Authentic connection. Being seen. Being known. Intimacy is one of our deepest needs—the essence of a joyful life. Yet, we often fear it.

Dive into the heart-expanding world of intimacy with the transformative power of Inquiry Cards: The Deck that asks you the questions...because the answers are INside you.

In this playful yet powerful workshop, you'll explore love, connection, and self-discovery in ways that go beyond the surface, guiding you into the deeper connections that naturally emerge through inquiry. In-to-me-see. Keyword—IN.

Whether you’re exploring solo or with a partner, this workshop will deepen your sense of self-love and strengthen your bonds with others. Bring your curiosity and a willingness to explore the love that's already within you. Leave with fresh INsights, INspiration, and tools to create more love and connection in your life.

Simple and versatile, Inquiry Cards can be used as:

• Meditation tools

• Journal prompts

• Conversation starters

• Problem solvers

• Daily inspiration

• A unique gift

• A life-coach-in-a-box

About Sylvia Nibley:

Sylvia Nibley, a local healer with over 30 years of experience, is the creator of Inquiry Cards. She is passionate about the powerful practice of self-inquiry and the infinite possibilities it can illuminate. Sylvia loves sharing how profound questions can create life-changing breakthroughs.

Storytime in the Children's Nook!

Every Tuesday at 11:30am and 3:30pm

Each Tuesday, we’ll read one story for the littles in the morning and another after school lets out for the older elementary-age kids. It’s completely free and no signup is needed, just pop on by and join us in the Children’s Nook while we dive into our favorite tale of the week!

Tuesdays:

11:30am – Storytime for the Littles

3:30pm – Story for the Elementary Ages

January Book Club: Lighter: Let Go of the Past, Connect with the Present, and Expand the Future by Yung Pueblo

Thursday January 30, 2025 7pm - 8:30pm

This January, the Golden Braid Books Community Book Club is starting out the new year with a new staff favorite, Lighter: Let Go of the Past, Connect with the Present, and Expand the Future by Yung Pueblo.

We have lots of copies in stock, so stop by to get your copy today! Keep in touch with us throughout the month on our Instagram and Facebook pages, and then we’ll convene here at the Braid for our book club meeting to talk about the book, meet some new folks, and share some insights and mutual love of reading.

About the book:

A radically compassionate plan for turning inward and lifting the heaviness that prevents us from healing ourselves and the world, from the New York Times bestselling author of Clarity & Connection.

"During the years when I had abandoned myself, my mind felt undeniably heavy. I knew I needed to find a clear way to help me feel lighter."

Yung Pueblo's path to deep healing began only after years of drug abuse had taken a toll on his mind and body. Searching for a way forward, he found that by honestly examining and addressing the anxieties and fears that he had been running away from, he no longer felt like a stranger inside of his heart and mind. And once he dedicated himself to meditation and trusting his intuition, he started to finally feel mentally lighter, with more love emerging from within. This was not an easy journey, and it's one that he is still on, but it showed him that real healing is possible.

In Lighter, Yung Pueblo demonstrates how we can all move forward in our healing, from learning self-compassion to letting go to becoming emotionally mature. As the heaviness falls away, our minds will finally stop feeling overburdened with tension and we'll be able to reconnect with the present. And the world around us will hopefully become more inviting in crisp and newly vibrant ways. But these are just the first steps. As we grow stronger and expand our self-awareness, it's our responsibility--and also part of the healing journey--to take actions to support the health and harmony of all people. The final section of Lighter shows how we can and must contribute to building a world that is no longer structurally harmful but, instead, structurally compassionate.

Yung Pueblo's hope is that as more of us heal, our actions will become more intentional, our decisions will become more compassionate, our thinking will become clearer, and the future will become brighter.

Storytime in the Children's Nook!

Every Tuesday (beginning 1/14/25), 11:30am and 3:30pm

Each Tuesday, we’ll read one story for the littles in the morning and another after school lets out for the older elementary-age kids. It’s completely free and no signup is needed, just pop on by and join us in the Children’s Nook while we dive into our favorite tale of the week!

Tuesdays:

11:30am – Storytime for the Littles

3:30pm – Story for the Elementary Ages

Storytime in the Children's Nook!

Every Tuesday (beginning 1/14/25), 11:30am and 3:30pm

Each Tuesday, we’ll read one story for the littles in the morning and another after school lets out for the older elementary-age kids. It’s completely free and no signup is needed, just pop on by and join us in the Children’s Nook while we dive into our favorite tale of the week!

Tuesdays:

11:30am – Storytime for the Littles

3:30pm – Story for the Elementary Ages

What is a Postpartum Doula? with Sierra Brooks

Thursday, January 16, 2025 7:00 - 8:30pm

Did you know that you can hire a professional newborn- and parent-support expert to come to your home and help you navigate those first days, weeks, and months of life with your new babies?

You can!

Come Meet the Bud to Blossom doula team and enjoy an evening of learning all about postpartum doulas and how they help lighten the load for families with new babies. Learn the difference between daytime and overnight postpartum doula support, hear personal stories from their fabulous team, and ask all your questions and get answers straight from the source.

Presented as part of the Bud to Blossom Postpartum Doula Event Series

When it comes to having babies, it really does take a village! Come join the Bud to Blossom Doula team for a series of workshops and learn about all the different ways you can get support once your bundle of joy arrives! Join us for any or all of the four events:

1/16/25 What is a Postpartum Doula?

2/20/25 - All About Overnight Postpartum Doula Support

3/20/25 - The Foodie Doulas: Nutrition for Pregnancy, Postpartum, & Beyond!

4/17/24 - Mini Workshop - Planning for Your First Night, Week, and Month Home with Your Newborn

About Sierra Brooks and Bud to Blossom:

Hello, welcome to Bud to Blossom! I'm Sierra Brooks: postpartum doula, Gentle Sleep Coach, and owner of Bud to Blossom ~ a postpartum doula agency.

Our passion, mission, and focus is taking care of you so that you can be at your best to take care of your babies! We provide daytime and overnight postpartum doula support, Foodie Doula weekly meal delivery, and virtual Gentle Sleep Coaching for parents struggling with their little one's sleep. We'll ensure you eat nourishing foods that fuel your recovery, help you maximize your sleep, and provide all the guidance, resources and support you need to have the postpartum experience of your dreams!

Our doula team provides in-home services in Salt Lake City, Park City, and surrounding areas in Utah. Learn more about us at: www.bud2blossom.com

Psychic Fair

Wednesday January 15, 2025 6pm - 9pm

Come experience readings from one or more of our amazingly gifted psychics. $25 for 20 minutes. Call or stop in to book your time slot! (801) 322-1162

THIS MONTH’S READERS:

DIXIE: Palmistry https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/dixie

JILLIAN: Tarot and Oracle https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/jillian

MILA: Tarot and Astrology https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/mila

ANGIE: Angel Cards https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/angie

Storytime in the Children's Nook!

Every Tuesday (beginning 1/14/25), 11:30am and 3:30pm

Each Tuesday, we’ll read one story for the littles in the morning and another after school lets out for the older elementary-age kids. It’s completely free and no signup is needed, just pop on by and join us in the Children’s Nook while we dive into our favorite tale of the week!

Tuesdays:

11:30am – Storytime for the Littles

3:30pm – Story for the Elementary Ages

Writing Workshop Series: Release Your Inner Poet

A Workshop for Exploring (and Writing) Poetry

Thursday January 9, 7-8:30pm

Join us for an evening of inspiration and guidance to help you discover the poetry that is hiding inside you.

Bring a notebook, journal, or any paper you wish to use (doesn’t matter what – fancy leather-bound with hand-pressed pages or scrap paper from your recycling bin) and a pen, pencil, marker, crayon, random art supplies – whatever will make the marks you want on your journey as a poet. (If you need something to write on or want a clean start, we have a great journal section to find your next vessel.) Also, feel free to come a few minutes early to grab an iced tea, cookie, or other treat from Oasis to bring into the session. There is no cost to joining – just an hour and a half out of your evening and the risk of inciting a passion for poetry!

The Daily Guide to the Yoga Sutras: An author event and yoga class with Susan Fendler

Tuesday, January 7, 2025 7:00 - 8:30pm

This modern and practical guide is designed for both beginners and advanced practitioners, offering an in-depth exploration of the ancient teachings of the Yoga Sutras. The Daily Guide to the Yoga Sutras is unique in that it offers an interactive experience through external resources that link the reader to meditations and physical practices that bring each sutra to life. Each page is filled with insights that encourage introspection, self-discovery, and personal growth.

If you choose to participate in the yoga portion of the evening, come dressed comfortably and feel free to bring your own mat, if you would like! If you don’t have a mat, Susan will have some on hand to use.

About the Author

Susan Fendler’s passion for yoga and music has been the driving force behind her life’s work. She grew up in New Hampshire, where she developed a love for the arts at an early age. After graduating from Eastman School of Music, Susan pursued a career in music education and performance in New York.

Despite a fulfilling career as a music educator, Susan felt a calling to explore the world of yoga. She began practicing yoga over 25 years ago and quickly fell in love with the physical and spiritual benefits of the practice. She trained in Rishikesh, India at Triguna Yoga Ashram and also in Anusara Yoga in Park City, Utah.

Susan’s love of yoga inspired her to delve deep into yogic philosophy and to study Patanjali’s Yoga Sūtras in depth. Her commentary on the Yoga Sūtras is her gift to her students and practitioners around the world in hopes to simplify and clarify this ancient wisdom. As a master yoga instructor, she has trained numerous students to become certified yoga instructors themselves, passing on her knowledge and passion to others.

When she’s not teaching yoga or writing, Susan loves to travel and explore new cultures. She trained in yoga in Rishekesh, India at Triguna Yoga Ashram. One of her favorite places is Bali, Indonesia where she leads yoga retreats. She also enjoys skiing and spends her winters on the slopes in Park City.

Perfectly Imperfect: a Special Book Event (and Magic Show) for Kids with Brenda Hattingh

Monday, December 30, 2024 2:00 - 3:00pm

We invite you to join us for a magical afternoon of activities at the launch of the brand-new children’s book “Perfectly Imperfect” by local author and illustrator Brenda Hattingh.

We will start the festivities with a 20-minute magic show performed by the author herself, followed by a fun activity for anyone who wants to participate. (If you just want to observe, that’s fine too!) After this, we’ll settle down for a reading of the delightful book, Perfectly Imperfect. Finally, you will have the opportunity to purchase your very own copy of Perfectly Imperfect and have Brenda sign it for you!

Recommended for ages 3-8, but all ages are welcome!

*Adult caregiver must remain on premises during event*

About the Author:

Brenda is an actress, writer, painter, children’s entertainer, illustrator, and rug artist based in Salt Lake City. She has been illustrating children’s books for the past 5 years and has illustrated 14 books to date. Perfectly Imperfect is the first book that she both illustrated AND WROTE! She hopes to make this the first of many self-authored children’s books to come.

Brenda is over the moon to have her book Perfectly Imperfect available at Golden Braid Books!

You can follow her illustrating journey and see some sneak peeks of her next book all about her pups Wyatt and Levon on her Instagram page, Imagine That Illustrations.

December Book Club: The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Thursday December 19, 2024 7pm - 8:30pm

This December, the Golden Braid Books Community Book Club is wrapping up another satisfying year of reading with the book we have all been anxiously awaiting - The Serviceberry by the ever-amazing Robin Wall Kimmerer!

We will have lots in stock for its November 19th release date, so give us a call to reserve your copy today! Keep in touch with us throughout the month on our Instagram and Facebook pages, and then we’ll convene here at the Braid for our book club meeting to talk about the book, meet some new folks, and share some insights and mutual love of reading.

About the book:

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Braiding Sweetgrass, a bold and inspiring vision for how to orient our lives around gratitude, reciprocity, and community, based on the lessons of the natural world.

As Indigenous scientist and author of Braiding Sweetgrass Robin Wall Kimmerer harvests serviceberries alongside the birds, she considers the ethic of reciprocity that lies at the heart of the gift economy. How, she asks, can we learn from Indigenous wisdom and the plant world to reimagine what we value most? Our economy is rooted in scarcity, competition, and the hoarding of resources, and we have surrendered our values to a system that actively harms what we love. Meanwhile, the serviceberry's relationship with the natural world is an embodiment of reciprocity, interconnectedness, and gratitude. The tree distributes its wealth--its abundance of sweet, juicy berries--to meet the needs of its natural community. And this distribution insures its own survival. As Kimmerer explains, "Serviceberries show us another model, one based upon reciprocity, where wealth comes from the quality of your relationships, not from the illusion of self-sufficiency."

Psychic Fair

Wednesday December 18, 2024 6pm - 9pm

Come experience readings from one or more of our amazingly gifted psychics. $25 for 20 minutes. Call or stop in to book your time slot! (801) 322-1162

THIS MONTH’S READERS:

DIXIE: Palmistry https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/dixie

JILLIAN: Tarot and Oracle https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/jillian

HRAEFN: Runes https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/hraefn

MILA: Tarot and Astrology https://www.goldenbraidslc.com/mila