SPELLED INK

The days are full of to-do lists and hustle, but there’s a place you can go in Culpeper that will take you into another world. That place is Spelled Ink, a small bookstore coowned by Heather Griffin and Cindy Pagan — and it’s a treat for the heart and soul. Just look for the cute beach umbrella in the lot behind Skin by NV that marks its entrance.

“Our focus is on creating a magical and welcoming atmosphere for everyone,” Griffin said. “A small, hidden getaway where you can catch your breath for a little while.”

This woman and veteran-owned independent bookstore celebrated the grand opening of its Culpeper location in April 2023. It is the second location of the eponymous bookstore in Orange, acting as the first store’s spiritual sister, creating a “one store in two locations” feel.

At both locations, Pagan sets the perfect mood using her artistic abilities and the generous use of twinkly lights, along with work from local artists, creating a hidden oasis.

“We love the town, and our mission is to bring books to areas where there’s a need, so Culpeper seemed like a perfect fit,” Pagan said.

The bookstore aims to spread literacy and offer a diverse selection of books to places with a need. The co-owners also want to offer a safe space for everyone to come in and escape reality for a bit.

Spelled Ink offers experiences unlike the typical big-box bookstore. For one, you can “rent the store” for a private shopping experience alone or with a friend. This can also become an unforgettable date night — or even a site for a charming photo shoot.

To reserve a private shopping experience, you can email, call either location or come in person to inquire about available spots. Typically, coming with a friend makes it more fun. You can also tell the owners ahead of time your preferred genres so they can make sure you have a good selection to browse during your personalized time.

Also, starting in the summer of 2023, Spelled Ink began offering a Manga Club, Write Club, Teen Writing Classes, Book Clubs, Storytime and special one-time events like Book Speed Dating or Book Carving. For the latest updates, follow them on social media.

Book lovers are also invited to the shop’s Orange location to gain a different experience.

You can explore a wide range of subjects and genres between the two locations, so you can always encounter something new and exciting.

For instance, Culpeper’s location currently carries mostly commercial fiction and children’s books. In nonfiction, the focus is on education, travel and the sciences.

“There’s always a little bit of everything tucked away in carts and on shelves as well,” Griffin said.

In Orange, the focus is on historical (both fiction and nonfiction), cookbooks, gardening and upmarket fiction. A variety of handmade gifts are also available around the store to peruse.

Spelled Ink always offers veterans 20% off. Both locations also honor local heroes with First Responder Fridays and Teacher Tuesdays/ Thursdays with a 20% discount per purchase.

So come in and stay for a spell — everyone is welcome.

Spelled Ink Culpeper is located at 138 N. Main St, Culpeper, VA 22701.