Why Start with the Rider Waite Tarot

If you’ve ever felt drawn to the world of tarot, you’ve probably seen the Rider Waite Tarot deck pop up over and over again. There’s a good reason for that—it’s the gold standard for beginners and experienced readers alike. At The Mystical Moon, I’ve seen countless students and clients find their footing in tarot using this deck, and I’m here to share exactly why it’s such a perfect place to start.

A Timeless Foundation for Learning

The Rider Waite deck, created in 1909 by artist Pamela Colman Smith under the guidance of Arthur Edward Waite, has become the most recognized tarot deck in the world. The reason it’s so widely used is simple—it’s easy to learn with, rich in symbolism, and perfect for building a strong foundation in your tarot journey.

When you’re figuring out how to read tarot, you need a deck with clear imagery and accessible symbolism. Each card in the Rider Waite is designed with details that speak directly to your intuition, even before you memorize traditional meanings.

Vivid Imagery That Speaks to You

One of the biggest advantages for beginners is the way every card—yes, even the Minor Arcana—has a full scene depicted. Unlike decks that simply show suit symbols, the Rider Waite paints a story on every card, helping you connect emotionally and intuitively with its meaning.

For example:

• The 3 of Swords instantly conveys heartache and loss through its imagery—no need to guess.

• The Sun radiates joy and success without needing a manual to tell you so.

This visual storytelling makes it easier to interpret your readings and trust your inner guidance.

A Universal Language for Tarot

When you’re learning how to choose a deck, it’s important to consider how easy it will be to find resources and support. Because the Rider Waite is the most popular deck in the world, there’s a treasure trove of books, classes, blogs, and videos available to help you learn. Many tarot teachers (including me!) use it as their primary teaching deck, so you’ll be able to follow along with ease.

The Perfect Balance of Structure and Intuition

The Rider Waite gives you the best of both worlds:

• Structure: It follows the traditional 78-card system, so you’ll learn the classic tarot framework.

• Intuition: The imagery is flexible enough for personal interpretation, making each reading uniquely yours.

This balance is essential for building confidence. As you practice, you’ll discover how to blend the traditional meanings with your own intuitive insights.

A Deck You’ll Never Outgrow

While it’s the best beginner deck, the Rider Waite isn’t just for beginners—you can use it for your entire tarot journey. Many seasoned readers return to it again and again because of its timeless energy and depth. It’s like an old friend that always has new wisdom to share.

Choosing Your First Deck

If you’re just starting out and wondering how to choose a deck, my advice is to begin with the Rider Waite (or a variation like the Radiant or Smith-Waite Centennial edition if you prefer a different color palette). From there, you can explore other decks, but this one will always be your touchstone.

✨ Whether you’re learning how to read tarot for personal growth, spiritual insight, or to read for others, the Rider Waite Tarot deck is your perfect companion. At The Mystical Moon, we carry beautiful editions of this classic deck so you can start your journey with the best possible tool in hand.

A Personal Note from Laurie
The tarot has been one of my greatest teachers, guiding me through both challenges and celebrations with clarity and compassion. Starting with the Rider Waite deck gave me a strong foundation that I still draw upon today. If you’re ready to take your first step into the world of tarot, trust that this deck will open the door for you in ways you can’t yet imagine. I’d be honored to be part of your journey—whether that’s helping you choose your deck, guiding you through your first reading, or cheering you on as your confidence grows. 💜

If you’re ready to bring home your first deck, you can explore our Rider Waite Tarot Deck here and start your tarot journey today.

With Love and Blessings,
Laurie Barraco
Owner of The Mystical Moon