In April, Kansas City business owner Sutton opened the doors to “Hell” to create a space for those who were often left out.

“It’s a Black-, woman-, queer-owned metaphysical store,” Sutton said of Made in Hell. “I opened this store to help fill the gaps in the spiritual world. There aren’t really places that are safe for POC to express themselves and be seen in the spiritual world, let alone queer POC.”

Visitors to Made in Hell will find everything from tarot and oracle decks to plus-size goth clothing. At the herb bar and spell jar station, guests can create their own custom jars and even take a candle to seal the jar at home. Sutton also sells a variety of crystals and puts great care into what she stocks.

“I actually hand pick each one I choose to sell; I don’t buy those online,” she said. “I like to feel the energy.”

Sutton puts great care into handpicking her vendors, as well.

“I’m so honored we get to work together, and that I have a space to help uplift their voices,” she said.

Made in Hell helps make the metaphysical world accessible to customers through its exchange program.

“You can trade in metaphysical items, plus-size goth clothing, all kinds of stuff, and get 15 percent off your purchases that day,” Sutton said. “Or trade for free with other items people have exchanged.”

Made in Hell hosts a variety of events designed to provide a safe space for POC to express and experience their spirituality, including an upcoming Blackfaeday takeover at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival Sept. 19 and an Underworld Barter Sept. 20. In October, Made in Hell will host its first metaphysical fair, THE CULT.

“It’s catered to the darker side of the metaphysical world, and I’m spotlighting POC in the spiritual world who are making moves,” Sutton said.

Sutton’s goal is for Made in Hell to provide a space for acceptance, growth and true self love.

“I’m not love and light; I’m the Darkness. Without darkness, light can’t exist,” Sutton said. “Made in Hell is a home for all the misfits and misunderstood.”

Made in Hell is located at 2711 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO. Follow Made in Hell on Instagram for upcoming events and more.

Kathryn Deters McDonald is a Missouri native, writer, author and lover of all things spooky, ooky and eerie. Salem, Shmalem. It’s all right here in The Spook-Me State.