Tarot Cards Explained: How They Work and How to Sell Them

Tarot reading is a centuries-old practice that has long been used for self-reflection, guidance, and insight. Its origins date back to the 15th century in Europe, where tarot cards were initially used as playing cards. Over time, they evolved beyond their recreational purpose and became associated with spirituality, personal growth, and divination. Today, tarot reading has become a popular tool worldwide, helping people gain clarity in decision-making, explore their emotions, and connect with their intuition.

Understanding the Tarot Deck

A traditional tarot deck consists of 78 cards, each carrying symbolic imagery and meanings. The deck is divided into two main categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana.

The Major Arcana, made up of 22 cards, represents significant life events and overarching spiritual lessons. These cards, including well-known ones like The Fool, The Lovers, and The World, often point to transformative experiences or important crossroads in life. When drawn, Major Arcana cards indicate moments that can shape a person’s spiritual journey or personal development.

The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards and focuses on everyday experiences and challenges. These cards are divided into four suits - Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands - each representing a different aspect of life. For instance, Cups deal with emotions and relationships, Pentacles relate to finances and material matters, Swords address thoughts and conflicts, and Wands symbolize creativity and ambition. Each suit contains numbered cards from Ace to Ten, along with four court cards: Page, Knight, Queen, and King. While the Minor Arcana reflects the daily ups and downs we encounter, it also provides guidance on how to navigate them.

Popular Ways to Do a Tarot Reading

There are countless ways to approach a tarot reading, but some methods are particularly beginner-friendly and widely used. Here are three popular tarot spreads to get you started:

One of the simplest methods is the One-Card Spread. This involves drawing a single card to gain quick insight into a question or the energy surrounding your day. It’s perfect for daily guidance or when you need a straightforward answer without complexity.

The Three-Card Spread is another beginner favorite. This layout typically represents the Past, Present, and Future, helping you understand how past influences shape current situations and what to expect moving forward. Alternatively, it can be adapted to explore a Situation, Action, and Outcome, providing a clear framework for personal or practical matters.

For those seeking a more comprehensive reading, the Celtic Cross Spread is a popular choice. Using ten cards, it delves deeper into various aspects of a question or life area, covering immediate challenges, subconscious influences, external factors, hopes, and the potential outcome. While it may take some practice, the Celtic Cross offers profound insights for more complex inquiries.

How to Sell Tarot Cards in Your Store

Tarot cards are not just a spiritual tool—they’re also a versatile and appealing product for retailers. With a growing interest in mindfulness and self-care, tarot decks make thoughtful gifts and are sought after by a wide range of customers. To successfully sell tarot cards in your store, consider how you present them, what complementary products you offer, and which customers you target.

Creating Engaging Displays

Presentation plays a crucial role in attracting customers. Create displays that evoke the mystical and introspective nature of tarot reading. Use shelves adorned with crystals, soft fabrics, and gentle lighting to establish a calming ambiance. Incorporating natural elements like wooden display stands or fabric backdrops with bohemian patterns can make the section inviting. Having a demo deck available for customers to browse through—while keeping it separate from the packaged decks—encourages engagement and helps shoppers feel connected to the product.

Including informational signage near the display can make tarot more approachable for beginners. Briefly explaining what tarot is, how it can be used, and suggesting simple spreads (like the One-Card Spread) can demystify the process and encourage impulse purchases.

Products to Pair with Tarot Decks

Pairing tarot decks with complementary products can increase sales and create an appealing shopping experience. Crystals and gemstones are a natural match—stones like amethyst, clear quartz, and labradorite are popular among spiritual seekers. Incense and candles can help customers set the mood for their readings, making them ideal add-ons. Journals and notebooks are perfect for those who want to record their tarot insights and track personal growth. Offering accessories like esoteric altar cloths for spreads or pouches for deck storage can further enhance the customer’s purchase and encourage them to create their own ritual space.

Consider bundling these products into themed sets, such as “Tarot Beginner Kits” or “Self-Care Bundles,” to appeal to gift buyers and those looking to start their tarot journey.

Understanding Your Target Customers

Tarot cards appeal to a broad audience. Spiritual and wellness communities often seek tarot decks as part of their personal growth and mindfulness practices. Gift shoppers looking for meaningful and unique presents may also be drawn to beautifully illustrated decks, especially when paired with complementary products. Beginners exploring new ways of self-care and reflection represent another valuable customer group, and providing resources or beginner-friendly decks can cater to them. Experienced tarot readers and collectors, always on the lookout for new designs or special editions, are also key customers. Lastly, those interested in astrology, energy healing, or metaphysical products often find tarot to be a natural addition to their interests.

Whether you're drawn to tarot for personal reflection, spiritual guidance, or as a unique gift, there's no denying the allure of these beautifully crafted decks. Tarot is more than just a tool—it's an invitation to explore intuition, symbolism, and self-discovery. For retailers, offering tarot decks can open doors to a growing audience seeking meaningful and mystical products. With a wide variety of themes, artistic styles, and interpretations available, there's a tarot deck for everyone—whether a seasoned reader or a curious beginner.