01/09/2025
I realised, moments ago, that I don't think I've shared an Altar space with you. This one was created two homes ago.
I don't often share photos of any space where I'm actively working, especially not when something is running, but occasionally a space is between being cleansed, ready to be set to purpose, just before it's re-set - this was one of those moments.
A little history about the table I use as my altar:
It has personal meaning to me and has held my altar safely for 20+ years. Of course I know that, if I need to, I can create an altar anywhere at any time, using what I have to hand, but there's nothing like MY altar.
Although I'm blessed with a wide collection of beautiful ritual items, crystals, herbs, incense, candles, without that little table (and without my reference materials), I'd feel a little unrooted.
I remember this table being in my childhood home - I believe it was gifted to my parents as they first set up their house, and when I moved out and had a bedroom to set up, my mother regifted it to me. It's rather 60s-70s, but it's true vintage, and I particularly like that it's round, and has three legs, which make it very sturdy regardless of where you place it. The twisted wrought iron is both decorative and practical, and although the wooden surface probably isn't the best quality wood or most interesting varnish, it feels very honest. You can tuck plenty of things underneath it (especially when it's clothed) so they're handy but out of the way, and it is heavy enough to feel solid and safe, but light enough that I can carefully move it around, even fully loaded.
My current setup is very different (the table remains!) and it's amazing how these spaces evolve with our needs and practicalities. Having a dedicated space where objects can be left undisturbed is a luxury, but altars do not have to be complex, or permanent. In fact, I've often found the most effective ones are simple, and easy to pack away.
The four shot glasses photo isn't mine, but it's one of the very simplest 'stealth' elemental altars I've seen, just to encourage you away from assuming a maximalist approach is the only way. It's not, though it's not my style. I do so love it though!
