Every girl’s dream house (or at least mine – and, like, every other girl—let’s go with at least probably 50%, enchantingly unscientific) starts with the legendary Owens House from Practical Magic. Raised for the 1998 film on an island in the Puget Sound, with scrollwork worthy of East Coast lighthouses, and a kitchen plus conservatory so gorgeous that it makes Instagram decorators (and me) weep with envy. Crews spent months building it, only for the house to vanish like a spell after filming wrapped. Even Barbra Streisand tried to buy it—sorry, Babs, no dice. To this day, the lack of blueprints haunts me. (Seriously, if anyone finds them, I’d really love a look)
After a few seasons living on Whidbey and scouring every corner of Coupeville hoping for a glimpse, I feel qualified—especially as I turn 50 today—to channel my inner Franny and Jet. The Practical Magic mood endures in salty winds, wild gardens… and the PNW, a little wild and a little weird, obviously remains a draw for witchy, mystical movies.
***I’m thrilled to report: a replica of the Owens House is being built for the highly anticipated Practical Magic 2, set to premiere in 2026. We can all look forward to seeing this beautiful, dreamy, iconic witchy mini-mansion brought back to life for a new generation of magical storytelling.***
…and, it’s not just Practical Magic—the Salish Sea and broader PNW are magnets for mystical, moody films. We’ve seen everything from the Twilight saga (shout out to the Ratties!) filmed up and down the Olympic Peninsula, Forks, and Oregon coast, to the remake of The Wicker Man, shot in British Columbia. Add Halloweentown (hey, St. Helens, Oregon!), The Ring (creepy fog at Deception Pass), Snow Falling On Cedars, Twin Peaks, and let’s not forget the TV show Grimm for good measure.
In true Practical Magic style, and with the Autumnal Equinox just around the corner, today feels like the moment for a little ritual launch: a whole new line of teas, immersive bath soaks, and a shelf-stable brownie mix made for everyday enchantment. I’m in the middle of the last book right now, and I’ve watched the film at least a million times—including one very memorable summer when it played in my house… every. single. Day.
You all probably know: the books are steeped in tea. Tea rituals, midnight chats, healing brews—for every heartbreak and every celebration. Each tea blend is crafted for ordinary magic—Courage (rose, chamomile, lemon balm, etc…), Fever (cinnamon, ginger, clove), Frustration (lavender, chamomile, rosemary), Clairvoyant (mugwort, rosemary, yarrow), and Travel Well (orange peel, mint, rosemary). The soaks are my original PNW twist for cozy, witchy, self-care; the brownie mix is perfect for conjuring your own chocolate treats… plus, who doesn’t want (or NEED) another jar?!?!
Because birthday mornings deserve a little chocolate, I also baked up a Practical Magic-inspired chocolate cake—rich, festive, and entirely alcohol-free. Unfortunately, booze and I don’t get along, so, no Tipsy Cake for me… It would have been much more super cool if this cake had *magically* appeared on my kitchen counter, but as the official baker here, rolling up my sleeves and whipping up this cake is all the spell I need.
~ Practical Magic-Inspired ~
Tipsy Chocolate Cake
Chocolate Cake For Breakfast (No Alcohol)
Full recipes above: simple, decadent, and perfect for breakfast or midnight snacking.
Equinox, birthdays, and Practical Magic dreams—here’s to celebrating with warmth, wildness, brownies, and tea. Whether you’re an Owens, a midnight baker, or just craving magic with your morning cup, welcome fall with a little more sweetness and a sprinkle of spellcraft.
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