Interviewee:
Hope Carpenter (they/them)
In your own words, tell us about your business, organization, or initiative.
I own and operate the Salem School of Witchcraft, an AirBnB in Salem and have happily been hosting since 2016. Once I finished creating a magical world here, it was time to start designing and creating things. My ultimate goal is to create jobs for underserved women in our community. Before I retired in 2016, I was a director of design and development in the toy and game industry.
I’ve lived so many lives including being one of the producers of the David Brudnoy nightly talk show at CBS affiliate WBZ when I moved to MA 28 years ago. I also taught design classes for 3 years at Emerson College, while running my web design firm.
Tell us a bit about you and why you do what you do. Share your passions for your business, organization, or initiative.
I learned I was ADD, Dyslexic and Autistic when I was 40.
Boy (chuckle) that explained a lot.
It doesn’t make life easy but it sure is interesting, and in so many ways it allows my brain to be creative in unique ways. It’s very important to me to encourage others who are neurodivergent. My Airbnb seems to draw people who are and it has been extra special to listen to their life stories and encourage them.
I’m an artist and a musician. My band Little Sister was a fixture on the Northshore for 14 years. When not arting, I write music. Being different is hard much of the time but I am so grateful that I am able to create what is in my mind and that the cosmos made me this way.
What is the last thing you read, watched, or listened to that had an impact on you?
The history of the Renaissance particularly in Florence, Italy was amazing and inspired me. I’m in love with Florence and Venice and I feel compelled to go there whenever possible and paint. If you are an artist and haven’t, you must. It’s an artistic mecca and you will return changed.
What’s the one thing people would be surprised to learn about you or your business?
I was a producer for CBS News Radio at WBZ Boston my first job when I arrived in MA. Buzz Aldrin taught me about astro breaking when we had him on. I left BZ to work on the Mars Exploration Pathfinder mission, designing curriculum for middle grade students.
What is Creative Collective?
Creative Collective is a group of economic development strategists, small business supporters, activation specialists, and believers in the importance of the creative workforce. We foster growth, sustainability, and scalability for small businesses, creative thinkers, organizations, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Learn more and join Creative Collective at www.creativecollectivema.com/join
Salem School of Witchcraft
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Salem School of Witchcraft The Salem School of Witchcraft, founded by artist and game designer Hope, is a multifaceted business offering a magical-themed Airbnb experience, handcrafted giftware, and educational opportunities in Salem, Massachusetts. This unique establishment combines whimsical accommodation with artisanal crafts and witchcraft classes. Key Features: Themed Airbnb rooms: Witches Room, Magic Forest Room, and Dark Magic Room Alchemist’s
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