When walking into any grocery store this time of year, it’s hard to miss the abundance of flowers, balloons and chocolates.
But what about the dildos, vibrators, fuzzy handcuffs and blindfolds?
As Valentine’s Day draws near, people are more likely to experiment with “kinky” sex or BDSM — which stands for bondage, discipline, sadism and masochism.
Curiosity and the desire to satisfy a valentine with more than just a dinner date and some chocolates brings more business for adult entertainment shops.
Chris Furgala, manager of the Deja Vu Love Boutique, said a steady stream of people have been coming in for everything from toys to lingerie and DVDs.
The idea of visiting an adult entertainment shop might seem awkward, but Furgala said the employees at the Deja Vu Love Boutique are willing to help.
“It’s a comfortable atmosphere here,” Furgala said. “If people look confused, we are there to offer help.”
This year’s popular items at the store are from the “Fifty Shades of Grey” collection.
“It’s hard to keep the collection in the store,” Furgala said. “There’s a blindfold, vibrators and other stuff.”
“Other stuff” includes bondage rope, tape and handcuffs — suggesting people will be roleplaying as Anastasia and Christian, the characters in E.L. James’ “Fifty Shades” series.
When trying BDSM, arts and humanities freshman Tess Johnson said communication is key.
“For anyone who hasn’t practiced BDSM before with their partner, the most important thing to remember is communication and consent,” Johnson said.
She added experimentation in the bedroom might feel uncomfortable, but it is a normal feeling to have.
“Feeling nervous or uncomfortable trying new things is very natural, and I don’t think you should let that dissuade you from reaching out and trying something you may end up enjoying,” Johnson said.
Blake Mackie, community outreach educator for Planned Parenthood, said whenever people visit the counseling part of Planned Parenthood, he or she is screened for domestic violence abuse.
“If you’re trying something new, it’s important the sex you are having is safe and consensual,” Mackie said. “A verbal, active yes.”
Along with using toys in the bedroom or practicing BDSM, some people might decide to try covering their partner in chocolate, whipped cream or other new endeavors.
But Mackie said it’s important to make sure whatever is being used is compatible with a condom.
Massage oils, lotion or whipped cream are more likely to break down a condom and cause it to rip or tear.
“If you are experimenting with food, you want to make sure it doesn’t have oils, or it could break the condom,” Mackie said.
Flavored lubricants that are water or silicone-based are a better option.
Mackie also said there are other common mistakes people often make when using condoms, such as wearing two at once, so it’s important to find the method of protection that suits a person best.
