WOWZERS!

We stumbled upon this magic shop quite by accident. A friend showed interest in visiting some day and the opportunity presented itself.

What a place!

John Measner displays his amazement at the size of Hocus Pocus.

We took a flight out to Fresno, California recently to visit a shop that was totally new to us.

We had no expectations and really went on a whim due to a friend’s interest. He had viewed a couple of videos on Facebook and was intrigued. That’s all it took.

We were on a mission.

A little background… Fresno - founded in 1872 and named for the abundant ash trees in the area is known as the "Raisin Capital of the World" located in the San Joaquin Valley of California. We didn’t try the raisins, but we did have an excellent meal at the Annexed Kitchen. Try the rib-eye steak. Highly recommended.

Another gem (maybe we’re biased), is the Hocus Pocus magic shop. It’s actually more of a magic warehouse containing all manner of magical props from various performers and collectors who, overtime, have traded in some props for others. A mecca for the magically inclined beginner or professional. A few questions for the owner, Maxwell Gross…

☆ You mentioned your dad during our chats. Was he the originator of the shop?

Yes, my dad started the shop in 1976!

☆ I believe he performed magic at one time. Is that correct? Do you or did you also perform?

Yes, my dad was actually a salaried magician for Bank of America at one point doing corporate shows. I don't perform shows, just for walk-in customers, friends and family. For me, I enjoy the history of magic, the engineering behind the effects and now building it!

☆ It was great meeting family members who seem to be an integral part of the operation. How did they obtain so much background? Natalie was instrumental in researching an item we were interested in.

We never really intended on being a family run business actually. My parents never forced it on us but really fate decided it. When family needed a job we seemed to always be in a position to be looking for someone at that time. Hocus Pocus has a magical way of drawing in employees. Everyday is new and different, we never know what or who is coming through those doors when we open everyday. We all enjoy magic and the history behind it, I believe the enjoyment and love for it makes remembering items so much easier.

☆ HP certainly isn't your typical "magic shop". In my eyes you provide a great service. How long have you been doing this?

Thank you! Hocus Pocus has been in business since 1976. Personally I grew up in it, and as with most small family businesses you help even as a kid. Any days off of school, early days or lectures I would be there. I started working full time at the shop in 2010 though.

☆ Older magical effects find a new home at HP. Was this the original purpose of the business?

Not at all! My dad started as a walk-in shop only. It was a 1 man show and he would demo every item. As time went on, more modern effects hit the market and my dad was old school (literally he never owned a cell phone LOL). As the more modern effects hit the market he searched for the old school effects that were becoming "Vintage", now it is the main part of our business..

☆ Your new products look great. Has 3-D printing helped expand your business?

If so, in what ways?

Yes! Internally and externally.

Internally - We've bonded as a team as each project we work on together. From the creation, to building to shipping them it takes all of us. Then seeing them being sold and performed excites all of us on a whole new level!

Externally - We now offer exclusive items. We are using old concepts and bringing them to modern day with a new theme & Design. This not only gives performers reasons to use them again, but teaches beginners the roots and history of magic effects.

☆ How can folks find you to inquire more about your business?

- Anyone is welcome to email me max@hocus-pocus.com, call us 1-800-407-4040 find us on Facebook, Instagram & Tik Tok. Lastly, anyone is always welcome to come into the shop as well!

Notable items dating back to early days of legendary performers. The walls are lined with posters and photos of prestidigitators past and present.

Brand new, originally designed 3-D items and classics from days gone by all getting a fresh look!

Even some items for the puppet collectors.

MDFPA - HOCUS POCUS