
5 Years of Sacred Creation: A Reflection
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Today, January 17th, 2025, marks five years since the doors of this sacred space first opened, and I find myself reflecting on what this journey has meant—its challenges, its triumphs, and the profound connections that have been forged along the way.
When I began this journey, I had no plan, no savings, and no idea how I would make it work. All I had was the trust that this was the right direction, even when the path ahead seemed impossible. With only $5 in my bank account, I stepped into the unknown and co-created this space alongside my dear friend Lizzie. Two months later, the COVID shutdowns hit. It was a time of uncertainty and fear, but also a moment that called on every ounce of resourcefulness and resilience I had.
In those early days, challenges seemed insurmountable. From navigating a sudden shift in ownership of our building to ultimately making the space my own after Lizzie’s departure, every twist and turn shaped this temple into what it is today: a reflection of my truth, my heart, and the beauty I believe the world deserves.
MILESTONES AND TRANSFORMATIVE MOMENTS
There have been so many moments that tested my commitment and my courage. The early days of the pandemic forced me to adapt quickly, and the decision to take on this space as my own after Lizzie left was transformative. It was in that moment that I shifted the space’s purpose. What began as an herbal shop evolved into a sanctuary of intention, ritual, and sacred beauty—a temple that reflects what I hold most dear.
This past year, 2024, was the hardest yet. I struggled to keep things afloat, navigating financial pressures and personal doubts. But I didn’t give up. Despite every challenge, I have kept going, fueled by the love I have for this work and the belief in its importance.
WHAT THIS SPACE MEANS TO ME
This shop is more than a business. It’s a living expression of my heart—a space where intention, beauty, and sacredness are woven into every detail. It’s a temple, a reflection of who I am, and a place where I’ve had the profound honor of meeting incredible people from around the world. To sit at the altar with clients, to share the work I love, and to hold space for transformation—these moments are the most fulfilling parts of what I do.
Every person who walks through these doors leaves an imprint. Whether it’s a tourist who tells me this temple was the highlight of their trip or a client who returns year after year, these connections remind me why I continue this work.
CHALLENGES IN COMMUNITY
Navigating the relationship between this temple and the local community has been one of the most complex parts of this journey. While I have a small handful of local supporters, the majority of my connections come from visitors and my online community. It’s bittersweet—knowing this space touches so many lives beyond this town, yet feeling the absence of local supporters.
Still, I am endlessly grateful for those who show up—for the tourists who visit every year, for the clients who book sessions from afar, and for those who engage with my work online. You remind me that this space matters, that it holds meaning beyond what I can see in my day-to-day.
REFLECTIONS AND GRATITUDE
I am most proud of the fact that I have stayed true to myself throughout this journey. I haven’t compromised my vision or created things simply to meet expectations. Instead, I’ve allowed this temple to remain a reflection of my truth, even when it felt counterintuitive to traditional business advice.
To my supporters: Thank you. Every comment, review, message, and purchase means the world to me. Knowing that this work resonates with you is what keeps me going. Your presence, whether in-person or virtual, makes this space what it is.
LOOKING AHEAD
The future of this temple feels uncertain in many ways. I don’t know where this path will lead—whether it will remain here in this town or shift into something new. What I do know is that my vision for this space is one of sustainability, stability, and continued beauty. I want it to be a lighthouse, a place of solace and inspiration, where the work I love can thrive.
I dream of a future where I can expand my one-on-one work, deepen connections with clients, and continue building community around this space. More than anything, I want this temple to flourish—to be a space of recognition, honor, and support for the sacred work it holds.
AN INVITATION
As we celebrate this five-year milestone, I invite you to join me in honoring what we’ve created together. Whether you’ve been here in person, engaged online, or supported from afar, this anniversary is as much yours as it is mine.
To commemorate this moment, I’m hosting a special anniversary event, offering a discount on all offerings, and sharing reflections throughout the week. I hope you’ll join me in celebrating not just the past five years, but the sacred beauty of what’s to come.
With endless gratitude,
Alexis Smith
Founder of Ocotillo Botanica
- Join us for a special community gathering with poetry, ritual, and live music, Saturday, January 18th, from 5-7pm at 115 N Highland Ave in Marfa, Texas.
- Use the code FIVEYEARSOFMAGIC for 15% off site-wide through January 21st