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“I’m even looking for a second job in the evenings just so I can pay my own rent. Running a bookshop isn’t quite as glamorous as it may seem”
The owner of a local bookshop in Bristol says she is unsure how much longer she can keep her business open due to the rising costs currently facing the industry. Monika Killer runs The Haunted Bookshop in Stokes Croft and took to Instagram on Monday (December 15) to make a ‘vulnerable ask’.
In her post, Monika said: “This is a hard post to write, but it feels important to be honest. Like so many small businesses in Bristol, we’re really struggling to keep up with rising costs.
“Our overheads are high, and the less money we make, the less we’re able to offer in the shop. Free community events, gatherings, and creative spaces simply aren’t possible if we can’t keep the doors open.
“Social media can make it look like we’re thriving – but the truth is, I’m not sure how much longer we can stay open. I’m struggling both mentally and financially, and I’m even looking for a second job in the evenings just so I can pay my own rent. Running a bookshop isn’t quite as glamorous as it may seem.“So many beautiful, independent businesses are closing across Bristol, and the thought of joining them is heartbreaking. This shop has become more than just mine – it’s a safe haven, a community space, and something deeply meaningful to so many people. We need your help to keep it alive.”
Back in September 2024, BristolLive reported how The Haunted Bookshop opened its doors on the 27th of the month and was the brainchild of Lithuanian-born Monika, who moved to the UK at the age of 19. At the age of 30, she spent the summer months renovating a former barbers in Stokes Croft just in time for the spooky season. The shop stocks a range of witchy and occult themed books and products and has garnered quite a following.
A year later, when BristolLive caught up with Monika again, she told us: “We’ve certainly had our ups and downs this past year, as any new business would, but the response from the community has been incredible. We have so many regulars who come in a couple of times a month, join our events and spread the word. Some would rarely leave their house before and have now discovered a space where they feel safe and welcome…
“As a first-time business owner, I was definitely not prepared for the ups and downs in sales throughout the year. Let’s just say, Summer is not our season! That being said, we’re able to pay rent and stay afloat, our events are full of people, and our social media following has grown very rapidly in the last 12 months. This is only the beginning, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.”
Back when The Haunted Bookshop first opened its doors, Monika had plans to incorporate an in-house cafe that promised pumpkin spice lattes and autumnal drinks all year round. However, she told BristolLive that the licensing and setup costs were just too high for the business and she wasn’t in a position to be able to afford to do that quite yet.
Despite plans for pumpkin spice all year round falling through, Monika says she has found huge success through her in-store events, many of which take place during evenings. In her most recent post highlighting some of the struggles the business is facing, Monika outlined ways people could support the shop this Christmas, including purchasing gift vouchers, booking a tarot reading or buying tarot vouchers as a gift, joining one of the late-night shopping events, and even taking part in the Winter Solstice Ritual.
Monika continued: “For the Solstice ritual, while you’re cosy and warm at home, five witches will be standing outside at the Avebury stones, in the elements. They’ll be calling in ancestors, guides, and deities, holding your wishes, intentions, and blessings for the year ahead. Proceeds will first cover travel and a hot meal for the witches, with all remaining funds going directly toward keeping the Haunted Bookshop open.
“Even if spending isn’t possible right now, liking, sharing, commenting, spreading the word, and visiting when you can makes a real difference. I know everyone is struggling, and I don’t ask lightly. But this shop means so much — not just to me, but to the community we’ve built together. Thank you for reading, for caring, and for being here.”
Spookily, Monika’s Instagram post has received some 666 likes in less than 24 hours, with fans and locals quick to share their support for The Haunted Bookshop. One said: “I was in there just yesterday and I adore your store! I’d hate to see it close. It’s where I found my people!”
A second commented: “I’m so sorry to hear this. I always try to visit your shop when I am in Bristol, as it’s such a lovely place.” While a third wrote: “I ran an occult bookshop in a small town once upon a time. It isn’t easy. Sending you all the best vibes to keep the customers coming in and buying stuff!”
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