In December 2023, Gergana Kirilova opened The Way Home Shop on SE Stark Street just east of 82nd Avenue. The 1200-square-foot storefront at 8437 SE Stark Street sells tools for energy healing and craft items from local artists and creators worldwide. A small events room in the back of the shop provides space for Reiki healing sessions and educational events.
Gergana Kirilova left the corporate world last year, looking for something more spiritually fulfilling. “Back in September, my husband and I were just eating ice cream with our little one, and I said, ‘Oh, one day when I retire, I want to open up a hippie store.’ And he said, ‘Why wait?’ So here we are,” explained Kirilova. Growing up in conservative Nebraska, Kirilova and her family were part of the small, tight-knit community of people open to natural healing. However, her interest in expanding her knowledge began a decade ago. “I started taking things a little bit more seriously back in 2011 when I first got my Reiki certification,” said Kirilova. That Reiki training progressed through the levels until she reached teacher status. At some point during last summer, Gergana Kirilova realized that there was a conflict between her professional life and what she had learned through the energy healing community. She quit her job and started looking for a shop to rent.
When searching for a place to open, Kirilova discovered that not all property owners were interested in housing her business. “It was hard for me to find a location. I never thought getting somebody to allow you to open up a business would be the biggest hurdle,” explained Kirilova. The search area expanded beyond her neighborhood until she found this space in Montavilla with an encouraging landlord and community. “The owner of the building has been so wonderful and so nice. Everybody that’s stopped by that is from the neighborhood has been very welcoming,” said Kirilova.
Kirilova has filled the shop with energy-healing items sourced from around the world, including natural stone jewelry made by artists in Morocco, Egypt, and Iraq. Much of the clothing comes from Nepal and Tibet. A Portland creator crafts the wands made from wood and stone that fill the display case. Shane Reaney soaps are available at the shop alongside many giftable items. “You don’t necessarily have to use them for energy healing. Jewelry can always be used for gifts. You can just say that the stones are pretty,” remarked Kirilova.
The Way Home Shop is open from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. They offer free-to-attend classes, with some instructor-run events only asking for a modest donation. Gergana Kirilova encourages people to visit the shop to explore and ask questions. “The main reason for the store is to develop a community and make it feel homey. I want people in the store to feel warm and welcome. A place where they can find resources, not just the tools that we sell, but also find guides. Basically, a place where people can gather.”
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