About Me
My journey as a tradition keeper and healer began when I was five years old on a Mississippi bayou where my aunt introduced me to the mysteries of Spiritualism. In addition, my Catholic Creole culture of origin informs my work. To be Creole in New Orleans means our blood derives from Spanish, French, Indigenous, and African ancestry, or some admixture within, and with that comes the traditions of our ancestors. From their rich mélange of food, music, culture, and religions, we can find healing modalities and magickal works designed for empowered, resilient, and resourceful living. My goal has been to bring these forms of healing and empowerment to others for the benefit of our planetary family.
Publishers Weekly
“Anthropologist and Louisiana folk magic “rootworker” Denise Alvarado rejects the sensational accounts of voodoo queen Marie Laveau to present a comprehensive, intensely researched narrative of her life and spirituality. This insightful resource is a thorough examination of Laveau’s legendary status and will be an invaluable reference for devotees of the Laveau voodoo tradition."
Ye Ye Luisah Teish
"Mam’zelle Marie and the legacy of Voodoo have often been maligned by mainstream media and treated with cock-eyed reporting from well-meaning apologists. Denise has done the research needed to tell the whole story. It reads well as the history of a community led by the influence of powerful and compassionate women. Sit back, read, gather your altar items, and prepare to conjure your best life. Power forward."
Stephanie Rose Bird
“The Marie Laveau Voodoo Grimoire is the stuff! Everything about this book feels just right. It’s spare yet lush; vintage but with a fresh tone. Like Grandma’s dresser, it’s filled with sensual delights and well-kept secrets. I was hooked from page one. I want this book. I need this book in my magickal library, and you will too. Sister, you had me at Potlikker!”
