How to Start a Wiccan Coven

Think about your goal. How many people do you want in your coven? Who are possible candidates? What will you achieve in your coven? Will there be a hierarchy or will there be full equality? Write down as many questions as you can about your new coven, leave them for a few days and then come back and answer them.

When you have answered everything, start your work. Seek out your possible coven members, assemble the coven's grimoire, start planning your first gathering.

If a person says they don't want to be a part of your coven don't pressure them into it any further. They could already be in an exclusive coven, or they might wish to stay solitary; you should respect their choice.

When you have gathered your new coven discuss ideas with them. Perhaps you want a uniform during rituals and meetings? Maybe you could start a collaborated apothecary? Anyone for scary Tuesday afternoons? There are endless possibilities, but don't argue too much.

Don't push anyone too far. If someone says they don't want to do something, they may be uncomfortable with it, and forcing them to do it will give you a bad name. Never make anyone do dangerous or just plain stupid things to get into your coven. Respect everyone and everyone will respect you. No sacrificial rituals!

If you are not a secret coven, expect a bit of badmouthing from the locals. Most Wiccans choose to stay in the broom closet because modern-day society doesn't support Wicca very much. Don't let people bother you too much, but if it gets out of hand, get some help from the local authorities.

Collaborate materials. Candles, herbs, crystals, etc. They're always good to have around; donate some to the Treasury if you have spares you don't want. These are good to have in case someone forgets something for a ritual.

Create your coven calendar. Decide which Sabbaths and Esbats to celebrate. Write some charges or rituals to do with the coven. Perhaps someone can bake some special food for the celebration.

Research new forms of magic and arcane arts to better your own and your covens understanding of the arts. Hidden knowledge is unlimited, you can never learn too many mysteries.

• Find and read spell books and books of shadows
• Research deeper into your already known magic
• Keep an open mind and try to avoid dogma; this may impede your spiritual growth

Gather new members and create balanced duality in one-gendered covens

• More people; more insight; more successful spells
• Having a setup which is strictly female or male or dominated by a specific gender will ruin duality, you must have balance for the sun and moon both own immense power
• Being open-minded and balanced is core fundamentalism of spiritual philosophy

Avoid dogma and stereotypes

• Remember not to stereotype magic into "white" or "black". Good and evil are artificial constructs, although harmful magic does exist.
• Acceptance of new energies will lead to greater knowledge and insight