Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions below.

Q: What products do you offer?

A: We hand-pour small-batch rune candles with natural waxes and phthalate-free fragrances. Seasonal releases and gift sets may also be available.

Q: What if I don't know anything about runes?

A: No worries—you don't need any prior knowledge. Each candle includes a simple intention and explains the meaning of the rune and properties of each herb used. Use the scent and meaning as a focus for your goal; lighting the candle mindfully is enough.

Q: Why use runes?

A: The Germanic tribes that originated runes believed that fate was not completely dictated by divine forces; rather, humans have choices and the ability to influence their fate.   Runes can be used as a way to exert will upon the world to influence outcomes.  However, runes put to use for nefarious purposes will often come home to roost; for example, if seeking power using Uruz, the untamed raw energy may also negatively influence the user if the intention is not benevolent.

Q: Wait - aren't there "bad" runes?

A: Runes originated among Germanic tribes in Northern Europe around the 1st or 2nd century CE.  Runes were created with an understooding of both positive and negative forces operating in the world.  However, there was also the belief that there are always "two sides to every coin." Hagalaz, for example, is a very destructive force but it is also a reminder that hail does not last forever and the sun will shine again. 

Q: The only thing I have heard about runes is that they are associated with some "bad actors"?

A: Runes, like other historical items and symbols, have been misused by people seeking to tap into their power for harmful purposes or to represent causes that propagate hate.  We hope that our candles can help people understand that runes have been inappropriately adopted by disrespectful groups and need not be associated with unsavory characters.  Rather, they can be used for good as originally intended.

Q: Why have I have seen a different meaning for some runes than what is listed?

A: Most of what is understood about the meaning of runes comes from rune poems, and scholars sometimes disagree or have different interpretations of the meaning for some runes.  The description of the rune meaning for our candles is based on individual interpretation, adaptation to modern life, and the specific use as a candle designed to manifest intention, rather than as a tool for divination.

Q: Are your candles religious?

A: No. They’re created for personal intention-setting and wellness, inspired by historical symbolism and herbal lore. Anyone can enjoy them regardless of beliefs.

Q: What if I want a custom blend or a bindrune?

A: Yes—custom orders are available. Share your intention, preferred scent notes, quantity, and timeline via the Contact section. We’ll propose a blend and a bindrune (if requested), confirm a proof, and provide a quote. Lead times vary by season; rush options may be available.  Bear in mind that candles must "cure" for 2 weeks to allow scents to properly bind.

Q: What ingredients are in your candles?

A: Our candles are made with soy wax, lead-free cotton wicks, and phthalate-free fragrance oils. The rune elements are made from organic white beeswax.  We do not add dyes or parabens unless noted on a specific product page.

Q: What are your hours of operation?

A: Online orders are processed daily. Our studio hours vary seasonally; updates are posted on our website and social channels.

Q: How does shipping work?

A: Orders are typically processed within 1–2 business days. Standard U.S. shipping usually arrives in 3–7 business days; expedited options may be available at checkout. You’ll receive a tracking number via email. For international or special requests, please contact us via the Contact section.

Q: Where did you come up with the name "The Midnight Fern"?

A: The Midnight Fern is named for two very unique and intelligent cats (Midnight and Fern) that are featured in the logo.  They were raised with the family from the time they were found abandoned at a construction site at 4 weeks old, fed by hand until they could eat solid food, and nurtured through the early weeks that are especially dangerous for motherless kittens.  Consequently, it often appears that they think they are humans.  Fern in particular likes to be nearby to "assist" when candle blends are being created.

Q: How can I contact support?

A: Visit the Contact section on our Home page to send us a message. We typically reply within 1–2 business days.