Meet Steve Milweed, Owner of Majestic Earth
Placed on the corner of 7th Avenue and W. Highland is a local business ready to help you connect to yourself and to this planet we call home. Majestic Earth is a proud LGBTQIA+ friendly business and owner Steve Milweed says his store is full of “gifts from Gaia (the Greek goddess of Earth, mother of all life).” This includes items such as rocks, crystals, beaded jewelry, Tibetan singing bowls, sound therapy instruments, bonsai trees, and much more! He has found so much joy and comfort in the items in his store and is excited to help others do the same.
Come connect with your local community and get to know Steve!
Picture Credit: LOZA Photography
Where did the inspiration come from to open your own storefront?
I spent nearly 30 years as a massage therapist punching a clock mostly for corporate America. One day I came to the realization that I had spent the entirety of my adult life working for the benefit of others. It was no longer bringing joy or satisfaction to my life and really was affecting my wellbeing. I was on the verge of turning 50 so I jokingly say that it was the start of my mid-life crisis. I just knew I didn't want to wake up in 5 years, 10 years, or 20 years punching that same darn clock!
I've always had a side hustle and entrepreneurial spirit. For some time, I was buying auction items to resell for profit or making food during the holidays to sell (I make some killer tamales by the way!). One day I asked myself...what are the things that would add joy and a deeper sense of satisfaction to my life? So, in 2016, I took a huge leap of faith and imported almost 12,500 lbs. of salt products. I’ve always had an affinity for Himalayan salt products, especially salt lamps.
“While profit is important for any business, it’s often the friendships you make along the way that are the greatest reward!”
From there, my journey progressed into seeking additional crystals and earth-made items that would also add a sense of joy and comfort and beauty to my life and my home. With the support of many friends and family (GOD BLESS YOU ALL), I was able to open Majestic Earth in September 2018. It's been unbelievably rewarding knowing that so many of the things that have added joy and comfort to my life do the same for others. I am blessed and the best part is I don't ever have to see that darn clock again!
What makes Majestic Earth so unique to Arizona? What kinds of products do you sell?
Majestic Earth offers a wide range of earth-centric items from around the world and some from our own backyard. Primarily, I say we are a crystal, rock, and fossil shop but, really, we are so much more. We offer an amazing selection of incense, hand-crafted jewelry, fine jewelry, dream catchers, sun catchers, wind chimes, oracle/tarot decks, art from a number of local artists, and unique gift items.
I think what sets us apart from other local crystal/metaphysical shops is that we go to extraordinary lengths to find hard-to-source and unique items that likely would not be found in other locations. I've built an extensive network with suppliers worldwide. If you are seeking specialty items that aren't in our daily stock, there's a great chance that we can find them through our network of partners.
What are the most rewarding aspects of running your business?
Without a doubt, the greatest reward of being part of Majestic Earth is the relationships that have been cultivated with our customers. Sometimes, when I've thought someone might turn out to be a really good customer they also turn out to be a really great friend! Some even drop in just to say "I was in the neighborhood and just wanted to say hi and see how you guys are doing today.” Some stop by thinking they will grab a few things and rush out the door only to realize they have been hanging out for over an hour. In both scenarios, we thoroughly enjoy the company! At Majestic Earth, we strive to treat everyone with friendly, courteous and five-star service. While profit is important for any business, it’s often the friendships you make along the way that are the greatest reward!
Picture Credit: LOZA Photography
How can the Arizona community support you?
When I began scouting locations to open for business in 2018, it was my heart's desire to locate in the Melrose District. For those who aren't aware, there is nothing corporate on that stretch of 7th Avenue (Indian School to Camelback Rd). Every shop in the district is a small, family-owned, mom-and-pop shop. I've always been an advocate of shopping and supporting local! There is a distinct uniqueness and vibe to the district and it's been a great joy getting to know fellow business owners in the Melrose. We all make a tremendous effort to support one another, which is rather unique in a business environment that has faced so many challenges the past few years.
I want to say a heartfelt thank you to our customers who supported us through difficult times. I would encourage all Arizonans, regardless of the community in which they reside, to continue to shop local, support your favorite small shops and tell your friends and family about your favorite shops. Post and share on your social media accounts about your favorite places to shop. Leave positive and constructive reviews on social media, if you use it. With our hottest days of summer coming, shopping and supporting local can be crucial for small business owners. These small steps mean the world to shops like Majestic Earth.