Frequently Asked Questions

I'm just starting out with tarot. Can or should I attend Readers Studio?
The Readers Studio is best suited (pardon the pun) for students with a minimum of 3-4 months of experience. If you are comfortable giving a 3-card reading without the help of a book, you are probably ready for Readers Studio.

May I sign up for just one day?
No. What makes Readers Studio unique is the entire journey. Our work is an integrated learning experience. We don't allow day-trippers for the Friday – Sunday event. However, you may attend Divination Day either in conjunction with Readers Studio or by itself.

Will I really meet, work, eat and drink with my favorite authors and teachers?
Yes. You will! Each year, dozens of renowned tarot authors and artists descend upon Readers Studio. Along with the main stage instructors you'll likely meet other tarot luminaries such as previous presenters; Rachel Pollack, Mary Greer, Robert M. Place, Barbara Moore, James Wanless, and more. We all take the master classes, share meals, chat and learn together.

Should I come early and stay late?
Absolutely! Year after year, guests fly in a few days early to start the tarot party and stay days after the conference is over. Take in the sights of NYC, visit with friends and begin your tarot vacation early. This is why we offer a free Wednesday night bus trip to Manhattan.

Why is The Readers Studio held in Queens rather than Manhattan?
We strive to make Readers Studio an easy event for our guests to attend. With this in mind, we keep your hotel costs down by hosting our event in Queens rather than Manhattan. Our hotel is also in close proximity to the airports for guests flying in from out of town. Luckily, Manhattan is only 9 miles away so you can steal away to the big city whenever you like.

How can I find a roommate?
Once you have registered for The Readers Studio, you can make a roommate connection through the Readers Studio Facebook Group, our online community.

Can I use a debit card to pay for my hotel room?
Please don't! Hotels routinely charge many hundreds of dollars to your card the moment you check in. This money is held in escrow against all possible room charges — restaurant/bar tabs, phone/internet, dry cleaning, room service, etc. The hotel will refund the difference if you don't spend it all, but if you use a debit card, it can take up to two weeks for your bank to update your account — and in the meantime, your money is GONE. The escrow charge won't post to your credit card bill, but it could mean real trouble for you if you use a debit card. We've learned from sorry experience that credit/debit cards can be erroneously processed as “debit,” even when “charge” is specifically requested. So do yourself a big favor and ONLY use a credit card for your hotel room!

What is a Foundation Reading?
First thing Friday morning, after our opening session, you'll pair up with a partner. You'll do a 20-minute reading each, using your own techniques. You'll go deep into questions, offer feedback and take lots of notes.

On Sunday morning, you'll find your partner and revisit your reading using the same question and cards. Only this time, you'll incorporate all the techniques you've learned over our weekend together.

You'll be amazed at how the reading is transformed by all the knowledge you've accrued. You'll be amazed to see how far you've come.

Do I have to dress up as a tarot character at the Saturday Night Banquet?
Dressing in costume is entirely up to you. Some of our guests dress as their favorite card, some wear festive garb or “dressy” clothing, and some dress casually. There is no dress code — wear whatever is fun for you!

I wanted to get a reading from my favorite author at the Celebrity Psychic Fair, but their sign-up sheet is full. What can I do?
Many of the Tarot Luminaries who attend Readers Studio accept appointments throughout the weekend (except during the Master Sessions). All you have to do is ask them.

How do I apply to teach an evening Study Group?
These optional 2-hour evening workshops have become a popular part of program. If you are interested in leading a Study Group, see our Proposal Guidelines.