Faerie Offerings

The main function of an altar, apart from giving you a constant faerie focus, is to provide a place for you to leave faerie offerings. This is an integral part of building a relationship with the fey folk. They want you to communicate with them, tell them your thoughts, express your prayers, spells and wishes. Faeries as a quirk of their nature, dislike very much being thanked and profuse displays of gratitude. However, in contrast they also demand your respect. This is a careful balance to maintain and you should always be thoughtful in your approach. They do appreciate small tokens or gifts and a physical presence, although it may seem a contradiction, creates a strong impression in Elphame. They are also very particular about what kind of gift you leave them. First and foremost, make sure it is biodegradable. Never wrap it in paper or ribbons, remember this is not a person to whom you are giving this to, but a being of nature. Faeries like the fine, but simple things that the world can offer. Their favourite things are honey, milk, cream, cake, butter and mead. Always make sure that when you leave a faerie gift, it is of the finest that you can afford and that it is very fresh too. If possible, try to present the gift in a natural or biodegradable receptacle too, especially if this is an offering to be left in your garden or natural setting.

The regularity with which you leave your faerie gifts is a personal thing. It will also depend on the type of altar it is. If it is an altar within your house, you can leave faerie presents there as regularly as you wish. You may want to do the same in your garden, or only leave presents here at full moons, festivals or when you wish to communicate with the faeries on a particular matter. The faeries will never mind you asking for their help, as long as there is an exchange of energy in some way or form and you are helping them too.