Alpha Nesting/Creation of a Den
We all know that omegas nest. Duh. And they are like really good at it. But consider how important it would be for an alpha to present their den to the partner they are courting. The specifics can vary depending on age so let’s work through from pre-presented alphas to adults.
Pre-presentation Alphas:
Their big thing is collections and collecting things to make their space inviting. Of course there is going to be soft things because an alpha, though not presented yet, will want to be comfortable. They will have an obvious place that is reserved for nesting but like birds they will collect all sorts of miscellaneous objects for décor. For the younger ones this would look like pockets stuffed with rocks, sticks, flowers, shiny objects, etc. They don’t really understand what exactly they are going to do with said objects but there is an instinctual need to have them. Yes even that crumbled up whatever that was probably a food wrapper at some point. These little alphas will not be deterred from creating a den.
Newly Presented Alphas (approx. 1-3 years post presentation):
Here’s where things can get really interesting. These alphas are slowly moving from an anything and everything den aesthetic to something more cohesive. Though it should be started that they can go through several phases of preferences before finally landing on something that is their own aesthetic. Buckle up parents, just because they wanted you to buy shades of blue last month doesn’t mean that you won’t be found buying yellow the next month because your little alpha changed their mind.
Also be considerate that as they explore relationships and pack connections that then den preferences could change. Obviously an alpha’s den is their own space 99% of the time but their instincts can sway them to want to please whoever they are wanting to impress. It’s natural and there’s no need to panic!
Grown Alphas:
Once they’ve moved past the stage where they are constantly changing their minds a grown alpha will finally reach a point of self actualization and have experienced enough aesthetics to create something that is uniquely them. This is especially important as they reach the ages to start properly courting or allowing outsiders into their own space. Nesting materials are of highest importance, do not let yourself forget, but it is more about *how* everything is set up around them. While an omega is mostly focused on the nest specifically, an alpha is more focused on the area surrounding the nest. This includes things like lights, placement of the nest within said room, wall décor, proximity of a bathroom and escape exit, and also showing that they can provide for an omega’s basic needs like having snacks and drinks on hand.
As for courting goes it is very special to an alpha to let them control when you are allowed into their den space. You don’t enter an omega’s nest without permission also applies to an alpha’s den. The presentation of the den by an alpha (or even a beta partner in certain circumstances) should fall near the end of the courting timeline. It requires a certain level of trust because a den is a direct reflection on the alpha who is presenting it. This can be a highly stressful event for alphas, so you want to make sure that you are responding appropriately. But if you as their partner enjoy and appreciate their den make sure to praise them above and beyond, creating an even stronger bond with your alpha.
The term ‘den’ does not only describe a very specific space but for an alpha living on their own it can include the whole dwelling place. This can be an entire house (including front and back yard as well as the geographical location of said dwelling place) or a specific set of rooms.
Conclusion:
An alpha’s den is sacred space. If they allow you in, do what you can to respect the space and the gesture. Understand that they’ve considered nearly every aspect of the space with great thought. If something is there it is there for a reason. A den can be a nuanced term so tread lightly. Ask questions but don’t be forceful.
