Owner’s personal healing journey inspires community space for wellness, spirituality and connection

By Jennifer Amato

Before moving to Sarasota in 2017, Storm Tentler said she had been on an intensive healing journey with her son, who has autism.

“During that time, our family explored a wide range of modalities — biomedical treatments, herbal medicine, homeopathy, energy work and even traveling to Peru for deeper spiritual and family healing work. I was the one leading much of that journey for our family, and through that process I developed a deep interest in holistic wellness and mind-body-spirit healing,” she said.

When the family moved to Sarasota and life began to stabilize, Tentler said she started thinking about what her path forward might look like once her youngest child was old enough to be in school.

“I knew I wanted to do something that helped other people on their own wellness journeys, and I had a very clear vision that I wanted to own an apothecary,” she said. “I began visiting different metaphysical and wellness shops around Sarasota to understand what already existed in the community. When I first walked into Wild Ginger, something immediately clicked. It felt exactly like what I had imagined — even though it wasn’t for sale at the time.”

Years later, when her youngest son did start school, she began exploring business opportunities more seriously. One day, she received a call from a local Realtor who said a listing had crossed her desk that might be a perfect fit.

“My response was, ‘I’m only interested if it’s Wild Ginger.’ She laughed and said, ‘Well then I guess I need to send you the NDA.’”

Coincidence — or manifestation?

“It felt like one of those rare moments in life where everything simply aligns,” she said.

Tentler purchased Wild Ginger from the previous owner in 2022. The approximately 2,800-square-foot space features a curated mix of items that support intentional living, including crystals, incense, sage, jewelry, pendulums, tarot and oracle decks, candles, clothing and CBD and THC products, as well as locally made goods such as soaps, perfumes and candles.

“Personally, I love buying and showcasing jewelry. I tend to gravitate toward pieces that feel symbolic or personal — talismans and items that carry intention. I also have a few favorite incense blends that I burn at home regularly, including several from the Sagrada Madre line. Our Kantha quilts are also really special pieces that people connect with,” she said.

The shop also includes a reader room where intuitive readings and sessions take place.

“While the word ‘apothecary’ is part of our name, what we’ve really grown into is more of a community hub centered around conscious living. We offer tools, experiences and education that support people in living more intentionally,” she said. “If anything, we’ve evolved into something closer to a metaphysical or spiritual apothecary — a place where people can explore wellness, mindfulness and personal growth in a welcoming environment.”

In addition to the retail area, about 1,000 square feet is dedicated to a studio sanctuary space for classes, workshops, trainings, sound baths, cacao ceremonies and private events.

“The store really welcomes everyone. Some people come in very interested in the spiritual and metaphysical side of things and want to explore crystals, incense or tarot. Others simply walk in looking for a unique gift or something meaningful for a friend,” Tentler said. “There are many different ways to experience the space, and you don’t have to approach it from any particular belief system to enjoy what we offer.”

Four core employees manage daily operations, while Tentler partners with about a dozen teachers, readers and practitioners who collaborate on classes, workshops and events. The largest event is a holiday open house, where teachers and practitioners offer mini sessions and giveaways. She also partners with local wellness businesses, such as chiropractors and energy healers, to host events that allow visitors to explore different modalities in one place.

Tentler also organizes private events both in the studio and off-site, including sound baths, yoga sessions, readings, mediumship galleries, bachelorette parties, baby showers and other gatherings.

“More than ever, people are searching for ways to reconnect with themselves. The world moves quickly, and we’re constantly juggling responsibilities, information and expectations,” she said. “One of the things I see most clearly through the store is that people often just need permission to slow down and turn inward for a moment. The space exists to help people reconnect, reflect and practice self-care in ways that feel meaningful to them.”

Outside the shop, Tentler enjoys family life with her husband and four children. They spend time on their boat and often stop at Mar Vista. They also frequent restaurants in the Gulf Gate and southern Siesta Key areas, including Tralia, Brine and Orange Octopus.

“A lot of my free time is spent simply being present with my family,” she said. “Some of my favorite moments are very simple — walking on the beach at sunrise, watching a sunset with my family or getting out on the water whenever we have the chance.”

Wild Ginger Apothecary is located in Gulf Gate Estates at 6557 Superior Ave., Sarasota. Store hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and closed Sunday and Monday. For more information, visit wildgingerapothecary.com or call 941-312-5630.