Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolyn Harding.
Carolyn, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My journey started as a performing artist right out of high school. My first job was at Disney World in Orlando, FL. I was the first African American to have their own regular show in the Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrow Land Terrance in 1981. The band was called the Mardi Gras Sound Company and we played everything from R&B to Country and Rock & Roll to Jazz and Pop. The level of professionalism and stage ethics I was taught would prove to be on the highest level in the industry. An experience that has impacted my entire life in the most positive way.
I went on the record House Music and traveled the world, performing for audiences of every kind for more than 35 years. The organic energy of House Music laid the groundwork for my gravitation towards all things natural. Little did I know I would birth a beautiful daughter that would embrace God’s natural gifts and establish “The Toribio Healing House.” An awesome place of healing and consciousness in the community.
I am proud to lend my own gifts to the business in the way of Fine Arts. It was while in high school (the infamous Roosevelt Jr, Sr High, Long Island, NY… where Eddie Murphy and Public Enemy, to name a few also went), I discovered a profound ability to paint and draw. A natural talent that got suppressed during my years of performing/singing. Expression through art is an excellent way to relax and mentally get away from the hustle and bustle… or, in this case, the depressing by-products of being cooped up due to the pandemic. Covid-19 actually provided the perfect opportunity for me to cultivate my raw talents. I am Art Director and I love it.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My road has been very much up and down… From #1 records on Billboard dance charts, tours and off-Broadway roles to death in the family, two bad marriages and losing everything in 2012 to hurricane Sandy. Somehow God always works things out. Over the years, I have learned to put my faith in him and know that things will turn out just fine.
As it relates to the store, my twenty-year-old son Jaylin encouraged my daughter Brittney to relocate to Florida and open a family business after eight years in the Army. She seemed to know exactly what she wanted to do. Initially communicating her vision was our only challenge. Once we started to see the same picture, things began to move very fast. All in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic and within weeks of her returning home from her deployment in South Korea. By March 12th, it was official. We had shelves to stock and actual doors to open. Seeing the smile on her face and hearing the joy in my son’s voice made every bit of struggle well worth it.
My children grew up thinking we were rich. I always told them we had unlimited resources, that we were rich in the spirit of God. That we would never be without because of our faith and good works. I am so thankful for his grace and look forward to great things.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with The Toribio Healing House – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
We are an herbal shop that provides healing herbs, teas, juices, spices, smoothies and many other items. My department is “Healing Art” more often referred to as a Sip & Paint. We use art as a therapeutic means to reach a quiet and creative place. An organic outlet to help build confidence and release the stressful challenges of the day.
Due to the pandemic, we’re only booking small groups of five or even just a duo. We take pride in creating a calming atmosphere using sound and lighting to help set the vibe. Our signature African vegan dinners, smoothies and teas along with all supplies to complete a personal masterpiece, set us far apart from the average sip and paint.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I am still very much a recording artist and have new music being released regularly. My latest being “Strength” out on Glitter Box… you can find it on iTunes or just google it. I fully intend to keep my classes going at the store for as long as I can stand up and hold a paintbrush in my hand. The vibe in the store is so stimulating and inspirational. It becomes hard to stay still. The ideas just keep popping into our heads and from day to day, you just never know what is coming next. God willing, we will have some outdoor festivals on the horizon that will include the store, the art, and the music.
Pricing:
- “The Healing Art” Sessions $35.00 per person (adults)
- “Creative Escape” Sessions $25 per person (teens)
- “What About Me” Sessions $15 per child (parent & child)
Contact Info:
- Address: 537 North Parramore Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
- Website: www.thetoribiohealinghouse.com
- Phone: 917-992-7743
- Email: hardings4u@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/toribiohealinghouse?igshid=1nv6ix9zhrsv
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/toribiohealinghouse/
- Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/the-toribio-healing-house-orlando
- Other: www.carolynhardingmusic.com
Image Credit:
Carolyn Harding Music
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