I don’t care who you are, you’ve heard about the erotic novel “Fifty Shades of Grey”. It’s a fantasy phenomenon. If you haven’t been drooling over the graphic sex scenes on your Nook, you’ve heard about them on The Today Show, MSNBC, CNN, and now Dr. Oz.  This “mommy porn” as it’s referred to, is really just a love story with a BDSM twist. Of course, “Fifty Shades” is classified as Twilight fan fiction, so fantasy is heavily involved, which leads me to believe this is why women are so taken with this book. Well, that and the hero of the story, Christian Grey.

So, why did women fall absolutely head over heels for a Dominant? Well, here’s why:

• Protective: Women need to feel protected, physically AND emotionally. We need to feel safe to share our feelings, thoughts, secrets, fantasies, etc. Christian is strong, powerful and protects Ana (heroine of story). He hires security, buys her a safe car, and is faithful to her (sexually protects her).
• Successful: Not just monetarily, either. Men can have lots of money, but without goals or ambition, there really is no success. Christian is an entrepreneur and created great success for himself. He’s young and works hard.
• Decisive: I can’t think of anything more annoying than when, on a date, a man says, “Hmm…I don’t care. Where do you want to go?” or “It’s up to you,” or “Whatever time works for you.” Women want men who take control and have an opinion. We may want men to think we’re the boss, but really we don’t want to be. Many of us make huge decisions at work, so it’s nice to have decisions made for us, after hours. Christian knows what he wants, and what Ana wants.  He orders for her, moves her into his home, tells her what time he’ll pick her up, etc. He famously says to her, “Come.” Quite the double entendre.
• Confident: Women need to feel like they can lean on their man, like a rock. It makes us feel comfortable and trusting. A man who can adapt to different social situations, is sophisticated, and comfortable with himself gives us that feeling. Christian is proficient in many different things (sailing, flying, business, lovemaking) and knows how to handle himself in diverse situations. He is also very well known, respected, and gets what he wants.
• Humor: Life is too serious to take seriously. We all need someone to laugh with.  Christian has a sense of humor (although it is Ana who gets him to show it.) He is also imperfect, which makes him more human and relatable.

The other part of this book that is a huge draw to women is the fantasy piece. But, why? Keep reading for the reasons women fantasize.

• Autonomy: We have this need for autonomy (self-management and choice). Today, women have a lot of power and control at both, work and home. We’re under pressure and stressed. We’d love to relax, but giving up that control is scary.  Fantasy is a non-threatening way to do so.
• Control: Giving up complete control involves trusting someone – completely. When is the last time you did that? When you were a baby? Imagine letting some dude tie your limbs to the bedposts and blindfold you, or telling a man your deepest, dirtiest, darkest secret. What feelings overcome you? Panic? Fear?
• Trust: Fantasies take us to a place where we can completely let ourselves go and trust someone – fully. It’s really what people are after; what we are all striving for. We all want to be taken care of, in some part of our life. No one can do everything alone.
• Escape: Life can be ugly. A lot of women fantasize because they’re going through divorces, have horrible jobs, are getting abused, are bored, whatever. Fantasy is a form of coping, stress relief.

One woman may drink a few martinis to unwind, another may snort a line of coke to deal with her rough day, another may blow $4,000 in an hour at Nieman Marcus, while yet another may fantasize to cope with life. Heck, some women may do all of the above! Either way, fantasy provides relief and makes us feel good.

If you’re familiar with “Fifty Shades” and/or fantasy, think about the feelings that surge through your body while you’re reading the words in the books. Excitement? Enthusiasm? Arousal? Order all three books from Fascinations today!  Hurry, because they’re flying off our shelves.

The other day, the College Times (from ASU) interviewed our resident sexuality educator Shanna Katz, M.Ed, ACS and Tempe superstore manager Jocelyn about sex toys, choosing them (especially for the first time), and why there is so much shame and stigma surrounding sex toys. It’s a fabulous article, with some great pictures of fun toys, and interesting information.

Click here to read the article. Here is a little snippet from the article to whet your whistle!

“Everyone has such unique taste. There’s so many different kinds of clothing stores because everyone likes different kinds of clothing. It’s kind of the same with sex toys.”

Katz, who has a master’s degree in human sexuality education, says nearly two-thirds of women need something extra to help them climax. Still, she says, guilt all too often stands in the way of seeking out outside help.

“I think a lot of the shame stems from this dream sex experience where everything is perfect, and everything is easy, and everyone orgasms at the same time, over and over again,” she says. “The thing is, while sex is very fun, it isn’t always an easy ‘wham-bam-thank-you-ma’am’ kind of situation. A lot of people are afraid if they need a vibrator or some kind of extra stimulation, there’s something wrong with their partner or something wrong with them.

“It shouldn’t be shameful,” Katz adds. “And I think that with stores like Fascinations, and there are other stores out there, and as the conversation continues, all the assumptions and shame around sex toys will go away.”

Hey folks!

As always, we’ll have a booth this weekend (Saturday AND Sunday) at Phoenix Pride, at Indian School Park. This year, we’re not going to sell anything, but we’ll have freebies including condoms, dams, lubes, AWESOME stickers and even some gift cards for a few lucky folks!

In case you’re wonderful how awesome our booth might look, here is an example from last year:

And Shanna will be wearing her signature rainbow glitter, of course, but might have a few extra rainbow surprises coming down the pipeline as well.

We’ll see you there — don’t forget to drink lots of water, wear lots of sunblock and have a blast!

The Fascinations Crew.

Yes, you heard me right. This weekend, for many, it is Tax Day of Evil. However, here at Fascinations, we’re making it Tax Relief Day tomorrow, cause we think you deserve some relief, particularly sexual relief!

What does this mean to you? It means that EVERYTHING in stores and online at FunLove.com is 25% off from 8am PST until Midnight PST TODAY, April 15th. 25% off – how amazing is that?

And if that wasn’t all, we’re also giving out FREE SHIPPING on everything you purchase over $49 or more during Tax Day.

You want MORE? Fine. I guess we’ll sweeten the deal even more; we’ll throw in some free lube with every order too. Why not? Let’s stick it to Uncle Sam!

Folks, it is time…. time to get that toy, or movie, or sexy outfit you’ve always wanted but could never quite afford. Stock up for graduation, mother’s day, father’s day, for National Masturbation month, Christmas in July, birthdays, etc. 25% off can save you a LOT of money, no matter what it is that you’re buying. And enjoy the free shipping too while you’re at it.

Ready to start shopping? Click here to start saving!

Whether you’re partnered, friends with benefits, single and looking, single and satisfied, or any other possible thing, we here at Fascinations wish you and your loved one(s) a very happy valentine’s day! Take a moment to tell the people you love the most (partners, family, friends, lovers, etc) how much they mean to you…not just today, but every day.

Wonderful V-Day Wishes to One and All!

<3

The Fascinations Staff.

Ok folks…while lots of people went crazy last Friday trying to get deals, we’re celebrating CYBERMONDAY here at Fascinations (and no…we don’t mean having cyber sex with your lover all day Monday, though you can do that too).

What DOES it mean? It means that everything on www.FunLove.com is 15% off today — everything! This includes items that are already on sale, so talk about deals. And if that wasn’t enough, for every $50 that you spend, you get a $5 gift card. This means spend $100 and get $10 of gift card goodness. $500 worth of sex toys, DVDs, lubes, bath goods, lingerie, books and more means you’ll get a $50 gift card! Um…I think that’s pretty awesome if I do say so myself.

Don’t know what to get your loved ones? Check out our Holiday Gift Giving Guide for some great ideas, and then go forth! The sale is Today ONLY, Monday the 29th. So browse the guide, browse the site, and get 15% off your entire purchase!

Enjoy!

“You like us, you really like us!”

For those of you who don’t know what the AVN Awards are, they are pretty much the equivalent to the Oscars of the adult industry. Now, most of the nominations are centered around porn; best picture, best stars, best scenes, even best soundtrack. However, there is also a sex toy and retail section…and I’m am so incredibly proud to announce that your favorite romance retailer, Fascinations, has been nominated for not one, but TWO AVN Awards:

Best Retail Store (West) – Phoenix, AZ

Best Retail Chain

We so much appreciate being recognized for the work we do in bringing open source sex education and sexual health and wellness fulfillment to people in Arizona, Colorado, and Oregon in person, and of course, to the whole world on the internet at FunLove.com.

Thank YOU, our fans, our Fascinators, our customers, our learners — it is YOU that make us so much more than just a store. With you, we’ve become a sexuality resource in our communities and hope to continue to do so for many more years.

Thanks AVN for the nomination!

-The Fascinations Crew

Thanks to our fabulous store associate Katy for putting this together to make shopping this holiday season easier for YOU!

It’s that time of year again! Gift-giving season is upon us! Would you like to get that special someone a gift they will absolutely love? Would you like to treat yourself to something wonderful this year? Fascinations is here to help with our holiday gift guide!

What better way to honor the season of generosity than with a great couples’ toy? The ultimate, cream of the crop couples’ toy is of course the We-Vibe II. It is a hands free rechargeable silicone toy that is worn while you make love. The thin end is worn internally to help stimulate the g-spot while the thick end (with the button) is worn externally to stimulate the clitoris. But that’s not all—the We-Vibe II can also enhance oral sex, strap-on sex, hand jobs, or be worn alone. It has nine settings to help tease and titillate you or your partner to orgasm. Be sure to use plenty of water-based lube (as silicone lube will melt silicone toys) to help you get in and out (and in and out) while using it.

Another fabulous couples’ toy is the Liberator—any style! Liberators are designed to help get you and keep you in any sex position you ever dreamed of. Each one has a removable washable outer cover over a waterproof cover to keep it in top condition. On the inside is a sturdy foam core that supports you while you perform your version of the horizontal hula. Liberators are also great to help prop you up while reading or watching a movie in bed.

Speaking of movies, how about a feature for just the two of you (or just you)?

Speed is the newest blockbuster from Wicked Pictures (available in-store only). This biker drama has 11 scenes and has been pre-nominated for several adult film awards. Available in store only. And of course, there’s always Pirates, the classic couples’ porn from Digital Playground. Both of these films have great scenes, great stars, and great stories! Xana and Dax: When Opposites Attract is a beautiful sex-umentary, with both conversation and hot, sensual sex. Don’t forget to check out our educational DVD section as well!

This section is primarily dedicated to those with a vulva—although, with a little imagination, these products can put a smile on a man’s face as well. Lelo is one of the top names in luxury vibrators. Each Lelo is rechargeable, made of body safe materials (medical grade silicone and plastic), easy to use, and stylish. They also come with a one-year warranty and a ten-year guarantee (i.e.: if it breaks within ten years, you get a 50% off coupon to their online store). Some of our favorite Lelos are:

-The Siri—a palm-sized clitoral toy.

-The Gigi—a curved toy with a flat head great for g-spot or clitoral stimulation.

-The Ina—a dual stimulator with wonderful functions.

Which Lelo will you choose?

Jimmy Jane is another name that Fascinations customers are becoming more and more familiar with as they learn to love their line of pleasure objects. Their “Form” line has been popular with employees and customers alike since Fascinations recently introduced them into stores and online. Each “Form” is rechargeable, made of medical grade silicone, has a three-year warranty, and is discreet. They charge on a base (no ports on the toy) which allows them to be completely waterproof! Not just shower-proof, but completely submersible! The “Form” line includes:

-Form 2— a powerful clitoral stimulator with a motor in each ear.

-Form 3— a clitoral stimulator with a flexible “touch pad” that amplifies touch, or you can use it like a tongue!

-Form 6— an internal or external vibrator with two frequencies of vibration. The smaller end provides intense surface vibration while the larger end provides deeper penetrating vibration.

Why let the ladies have all the fun this year? Fascinations has plenty of toys for guys as well! Probably the most well known is the Fleshlight. On the outside, it appears to be a regular flashlight, but the inside has a sleeve made of a realistic skin material. You can choose any orifice you like (lady, mouth, butt, stealth) and some have different textures on the inside as well. You can even make your Fleshlight vibrate by putting a bullet in the other end.

For men who like to lube up and go to town, why not try Stroke 29 Masturbation Cream? It starts off as a thick cream and becomes oil as it warms to your hand and body (usually around the 29^th stroke—get it?). It never dries up so it will keep going as long as you do. When finished, just wash your willy with some dish-washing soap to get all the oil off. Stroke 29 should NOT be used as a sex lubricant because the oil will not only break down condoms, but can linger in the body and cause infection. This cream is for external use only on penises and testicles.

Show your equal-opportunity orifice some love this year with anal beads or a great butt plug! Try the Rapture Anal Chain 6 by Ophoria or the adorable Flexi Felix by Fun Factory. The oval beads are tapered which makes them easier to insert, remove, or move in and out. Pull them out slowly during orgasm for that “Oh WOW!” sensation. Both toys are made of silicone so they can be sterilized (boiling water/top rack of dishwasher/10% bleach solution) between use and shared with a partner if desired.

Then there’s the ever popular Aneros. It has been providing men with amazing prostate stimulation for years, but it has the same basic design as any butt plug that any person can use. The tapered end makes it easy to insert and the slender neck ensures it won’t pop out during use. Aneros will not get in the way during sex and the angle makes it great for indirect g-spot stimulation or direct prostate stimulation. And since it is made of hard plastic, you can use water-based or silicone lube with it!

Lastly, let’s not forget that lube is love. Please note that both silicone and water-based lubricants are condom-safe. And since we just covered anal toys, let’s discuss great anal lubes. Maximus is a thick and fabulous gel that stays perfectly in place during anal, whether you’re inserting fingers, toys, penises or more! This is the perfect companion to the Aneros.

For silicone toys, water-based lubricants are highly recommended. Thicker lubes are best for anal use. Consider Frolic, a water-based glycerin-free lube. It stays where you put it and won’t get absorbed as quickly as its thinner counterparts. Plus, the infused grapefruit seed extract provides anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties. Try it with the Rapture Anal Chain 6—or any other silicone toy!

A fantastic silicone lubricant is Pjur Bodyglide. Silicone lubes don’t get absorbed the way water-based lubes do so you don’t need to reapply as often. It is quite slippery which can make sex that much more fun and since it is not greasy, it’s great for massage as well. Also Pjur Bodyglide is water-resistant so it’s great for sex in the shower, hot tub, or ocean. Another great silicone lube is Gun Oil! Remember, silicone lubricants should not be used with soft toys—including silicone—as the lube can break down the toy materials. Silicone also has a tendency to stain fabrics, but just lay down some Saran Wrap and not only can you have a slippery good time, but you don’t have to worry about staining the sheets!

Are you more of a water-based fan? Pick up a bottle of Pink Water! Since it is glycerin-free, it won’t leave you with a sticky film. Instead, Pink Water leaves your skin feeling moisturized due to the added aloe and vitamin E. Also, being glycerin-free, it is a great lube for women who are prone to yeast infections since glycerin (a sugar derivative) can promote yeast growth. Great for sex or use with sex toys of all kinds—alone or with a partner!

Like any holiday TV special, we hope you enjoyed this and we hope maybe you learned something as well. Treat yourself or your honey to a great gift this year by shopping with Fascinations in-store or online. Happy Holidays!

Today, November 20th, is National (and International) Transgender Day of Remembrance. In the last few years (and this video is from last year, so there are more names and faces to be sadly added), over 100 people have been murdered for their gender identity/presentation. This doesn’t even take into account the hundreds and possibly THOUSANDS of people who are assaulted based on their gender, and tens of thousands more who are harassed each and every day.

Please watch this video. Again, it’s a year old, so many people are missing, but if you cannot take nine minutes out of your life to remember those who we have lost due to violence against the transgender community, what does that say? After you watch it, please think for a moment, or two, or ten, what YOU can do to create change in your community, in our community. How can we make it stop? This is completely unacceptable and heartbreaking. No one should have to be scare to leave their home due to their gender, and they should certainly not be scared of being killed. This is flat out wrong, and regardless of your politics, or religion, or moral views, is is NEVER ok to hurt and/or murder someone because of who they are. Ever.

If we don’t stand up and create this change, no one will. Stand up for people who are being harmed and whose voices are being heard. Create change, NOW. And always, always remember those we have lost.

-Shanna

Hey you…guess what? From 8am MST to Midnight MST, every single item on the Fascinations site (Funlove.com) is 25% off.

What does this mean?

25% off the Njoy Eleven!

25% off all the lube you can use!

25% off educational DVDs!

25% off erotica AND sex ed books!

25% off bath/body gift baskets and the Kama Sutra Collection!

25% off sexy lingerie!

25% off ceiling cat panties!

But there is more! If you swing by any of our three Scottsdale, AZ stores, or our new Colorado Springs store (on Academy and Dublin) tomorrow, not only is the store 25% off, but there are HUGE door buster deals like $60 We-Vibes, $50 Sex Swings, $40 Snow Bunnies, $5 lingerie, $5 stockings and more…plus the Spinning Wheel of Sexual Fulfillment to win prizes, gift cards and more. If you’re near by, make sure you stop in from open to close Tomorrow, November 20th!

How can you argue with this? Go forth! Enjoy! And don’t forget upcoming holidays, birthdays, etc — this is the time to stock up! If you’re not near one of our big sale stores, just head on over to Fascinations online, November 20th ONLY for the One Day Sale!

At 4pm mountain standard time, Let’s Talk Sex with Shanna Katz will air on KFNX 1100AM in Phoenix, but you can stream us live at www.1100kfnx.com — it’s that easy!

Today, I’ve got sex educator Garnet Joyce on the air with me (yes, the one who taught two fabulous blow job classes last spring!), and we’re going to be talking about what else than the Art of Oral. Whether you’re worried about your gag reflex, how to get more comfortable giving/getting fellatio and cunnilingus, or just get more info on the low down on going down, this is the time to tune in!

Plus, we’ll be taking questions via phone call, facebook and twitter…and we’ll be giving away some great prizes. Make sure you listen to ask and to win!

See you on the radio…

-Shanna

Are you a master/mistress pumpkin carver? Can you do magical things with your pumpkin that can shock and awe?

We’re rewarding all those who post a Fascinations or sex toy themed pumpkin picture on our Facebook page or tag a picture of it with @FascinationsFun on twitter.

Here are a few entries so far…

Hey there Fascinations…time for a big announcement! Starting TODAY, Thursday, October 21st, we’re proud to present:

Let’s Talk Sex with Shanna Katz, which from here on, will be a weekly Thursday afternoon radio show, produced and aired in the Phoenix area on KFNX 1100AM. However, don’t worry if you’re not located in AZ — you can also hear it live by streaming it anywhere in the world from the KFNX website.

When? It’ll go on the air 4pm (local time in AZ) every Thursday afternoon. For those of you who don’t know that Arizona doesn’t observe daylight savings time, that means 4pm pacific time on October 21st, 28th and November 4th, and then 4pm mountain time November 11th and so on.

What’s on the show? We’ll, of course we’ll be talking about sexuality education, the whole spectrum of sexuality, sex toys, sexual activities, body/self image, masturbation, and much more, as well as have a plethora of rockstar sex educator guests. So far, I’ve booked Dr. Ruthie, Megan Andelloux, Garnet Joyce, Julian Wolf, Catherine Toyooka, Lillith Grey, Lee Harrington, and Jacq Jones…and that’s just through the end of 2010. The plan is that this will be a fabulous show, and of course it will be made better by people like you listening in, calling in (there is a toll free number too!) and asking interesting questions.

Let me know if you hear me on the air, and what to think!

Click here to hear Let’s Talk Sex with Shanna Katz, Thursdays at 4pm AZ time.

One of our favorite speakers and authors, Megan Andelloux, also is the founder of the Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health in RI. Coming up next month, she’s putting on an amazing conference, called Talking About the Taboo, featuring amazing sex educators from the around the country. Fascinations is proud to be a sponsor of such a ground breaking and incredibly important event. We hope that some of you are able to attend! Info is below.

Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health to hold its 2^nd Annual Conference,

“Talking about the Taboo”.

Pawtucket, RI September 20^th, 2010 –

The Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health (The CSPH) will be holding its second annual conference titled “Talking about the Taboo: Discussing Difficult Issues in Human Sexuality” on October 10^th at 1:00 pm at its location in the historic Grant building in downtown Pawtucket, RI. The CSPH is the first sexuality resource and information center on the East Coast.

What: This conference represents the outcome of a battle to open the CSPH dating back to September of 2009. The CSPH was originally denied permission to open after a controversial zoning decision made by the Pawtucket city council, stating that the Grant building was not zoned to allow businesses of and educational nature. After a media frenzy and intervention from the ACLU, the city reversed their decision and allowed the CSPH to open in February of the following year. The “Talking about the Taboo” conference will be the first legal event the CSPH will hold in Pawtucket.

Through this conference the CSPH will provide sexuality education to adults in a safe and open environment. By bringing together sexuality and the pleasure, education, advocacy and medical worlds, the CSPH will take subjects that are traditionally “taboo” and illuminate them, showing that exploring taboo topics is necessary for providing basic education, and can be discussed in thought-provoking ways.

When: October 10^th, from 1:00pm-5:00pm.

Where: 250 Main Street, The Grant Building, Pawtucket, RI 02860

Who: The “Talking about the Taboo” conference will include panels with sexuality specialists such as Dr. Charlie Glickman and Dr. Logan Levkoff, alongside nationally known authors and bloggers such as Sinclair Sexsmith and Audacia Ray. There will also be vendors and local- and national-level community organizations exhibiting 100% safer sex products to conference attendees.

Why: The CSPH is designed to provide adults with a safe, physical space to learn about sexual pleasure, health, and advocacy issues. Beginning with this conference the CSPH will offer educational discussion groups, conduct sexuality studies, and hold classes both for professionals and for the general public.

For more information, please visit the CSPH’s website at http://thecsph.org or contact Ms. Andelloux by phone at 401-345-8685 or email at thecsph@gmail.com.

Lee Harrington, kinkster, rope expert, author, shaman and of course, educator, will be coming to Denver this Thursday and Friday to teach at Fascination.

Thursday night, join him at our Arvada store for Kink 101 — learn the basics of BDSM, how to explore your kinky side, and much more. This is a Let’s Talk Se event, and is free and open to everyone 18+. Food and drink will be served, and there is a free raffle.

Then Friday night, Lee is hosting a special hands-on workshop at our Glendale store (near Colorado and Virginia). For $10-$20 (sliding scale, please pay what you can afford. $20 tickets include a $15 gift card!), you can learn all about Bondage for Love Making. From speed cuffs to rope harnesses, this class is great for rope lovers of ALL skill sets (including newbies!).

Both classes are at 7pm.

See you there!

One of our long term and rockstar sex educators, Dr. Jenni Skyler, will be making her way from Denver to Phoenix to present her awesome workshop on Love and Communication this Thursday night. She’ll be at our store in Tempe, on Elliot and Kyrene.

Like all Let’s Talk Sex events, it starts at 7pm, is 18+, and is 100% free. It includes food and drink, plus a raffle.

Hope to see you there!

Yes, you heard me right. Fascinations is doing a $500 sweepstakes, to celebrate lots of things, like break 1000 twitter followers, nearing 5000 Facebook fans, providing free sex education to our community for over a year, and much much more.

If you win, you can buy ANYTHING you want either in store or online. Anything. Every book ever? Check. Massage candles, lotions and potions? Yep. Njoy, Jimmy Jane, Nomi Tang, Tantus, Lelo, Spareparts, Sportsheets, Fleshlight, Tenga? All included. ANYTHING you want!

Ok, so now that I’ve gotten your attention, let’s talk about how to enter.

Firstly, you have to be a facebook fan by clicking “like” on our Facebook Fan Page. Then click this here link in order to enter the Sweepstakes page, where you can enter to win and also invite friends (who knows! Maybe they’ll share with you if they win…).

If you win, and want to share? Well…you know how to get a hold of me!

Thanks to Holly Ord for bringing our attention to this very important anthology written by and for women and trans survivors of sexual violence. Please pass this on, and submit writing for it if you are interested.

Call For Submission

Dear Sister, edited by Lisa Factora-Borchers, is an anthology of letters and other works created for survivors of sexual violence from other survivors and allies. It is a collection of hope and strength through words and art.

The pathway for a survivor of rape and sexual violence is an unlit road of pain, isolation and doubt. In the weeks, months and oftentimes, years following, the healing process can be difficult to navigate without a community surrounding her. Imagine a compilation of literary arms bound together to offer words of understanding, solidarity and love. Dear Sister is an accessible and inclusive offering of hope, voice and courage; seeking writers and artists who wish to light a piece of that road and lift up other women in her healing.

It is an impossible task to write a letter to every survivor of rape, to every woman who lives with an invisible scar. Instead of thinking of the face of the person you are writing to, reflect on the image of an unlit path, a road with no clear footing. Your offering will be one light, among many, to make visible what was previously unseen, to illuminate what was hidden. You are providing a few more steps for someone to walk steadily toward their own recovery. Your words can be an anchor, a meditation, a prayer, a strong embrace or a gentle touch. The purpose of this anthology is not to retell stories of assault, but to help others regain a sense of balance and wholeness.

Mindfully move beyond what is commonly said and reflect upon radical companionship. Write what you wish for her to know and never forget. And if you lose focus, look deep into a mirror and reflect: What would you want to be told if you were in the darkness?

Information

Dear Sister primarily seeks letters but will accept poems, prose, essay and drawn art that can either be scanned for entry. Maximum word count is 1,000. Deadline for submission is November 1, 2010.

Women and transpeople of any race, creed, background, citizenship or non-citizen, ability and identity are encouraged to submit their words and work to uplift others in the healing stages of post trauma and violence. Both English and Spanish are accepted. All questions can be directed to dearsisteranthology@gmail.com.

Submissions can be emailed as an attachment with “Dear Sister Entry” in the subject to dearsisteranthology@gmail.com.

Hand written letters can be address and mailed to:
Dear Sister Anthology
P.O. Box 202468
Cleveland, OH 44120

Note from the Editor

Rape and sexual violence thrive in the silence of our homes and communities. Outreach must be wide and intentional if we seek to hear from those who are silenced. Please forward this to as many individuals, groups, organizations, listserves, websites and agencies that come to mind

Are you one of our customers in Oregon? Make sure you check out tomorrow night’s FREE workshop at our Portland store. 7pm, everyone gets a $10 gift card, free food and drinks, and there will be a raffle…all of course, in addition to the awesome info you’ll be getting about sex toys, materials, lubes, safer sex supplies and more!

Hope to see you there…

Tomorrow, we’ve got great classes in both Denver and Phoenix. Dr. Jenni Skyler will be talking about the Joys of Self Pleasure at our store in Arvada (7pm) and Jamye Waxman will be extolling the virtues of Female Masturbation at our Phx area Tolleson store.

Both classes are at 7pm, and are FREE. Everyone must be 18+. Food and drink will be served, as well as a raffle.

And as if that wasn’t enough, Jamye is staying another night in Arizona, and will be teaching a special advanced workshop on Erotic Massage for Couples, at our Phoenix store on 19th Ave and Peoria.

Hope to see you there!

Happy Anniversary to Fascinations! Today is our 21st anniversary of being in business, and we want you to help us celebrate. How?

We’ll, we’re giving you 25% off everything. EVERYTHING. That means that every item we carry, in store and online, is TWENTY FIVE percent off. Vibrators? Yep. Couples DVDs? Sure. Bath and body products? Lubes? Ceiling Cat panties? Yes, yes and yes!

It’s easy. Just head over to Funlove.com to shop, or find the nearest store to you (we have stores in Portland, Arizona and Colorado). Then buy online or head in to check out our huge in store selection. No coupon or code needed — just enjoy!

We’d like to announce Momentum Con 2011 — a conference discussing sexuality, feminism, new media and more. It’s taking place in Washington, DC, April 1-3 2011. Fascinations is incredibly proud to be the official sponsor of Momentum 2011.

Interested? Read below and check out MomentumCon.com for more information, to apply to present, and much more!

The phenomenal growth of online communication has given rise to an amazing amount of sharing, learning and experimenting with different expressions of sexuality, relationships and feminism. MOMENTUM provides a safe place to listen, discuss and learn about the ways the web has impacted our sexuality without the fear of reprisal or shaming. It is a space for acceptance and appreciation of diversity, including for those in the LGBTQ, sex-work, BDSM and non-monogamous communities.

During MOMENTUM we will discuss ways to bridge the baffling dichotomies our culture creates around sexuality. While on one hand we have unprecedented sexual freedom, on the other we continue to police sexuality with a frightening vigor. Abortion laws, restrictions on gay marriage, abstinence programs, medicalization of sex, fear of pornography and prosecutions for teenage sexting are examples of one side of the spectrum. The discomfort that strives to make us keep our sexuality hidden conflicts with the use of sex — especially the female body — to sell everything from food to cars to “performance enhancing” products.

Each participant will leave the conference with new perspectives, new connections, and a plan to carry the MOMENTUM forward into 2011 and beyond.

Here our a few pictures of our rocking Fascinations crew at Denver Pride last month. Missed us there? We’ll be at Boulder Pride Sept 11th and Rainbows Festival in Phoenix on October 2nd and 3rd!

Hey everyone -

Just wanted to thank everyone for the warm welcome in Denver! From each of our stores, to the rocking learners who attended our Let’s Talk Sex event at our Arvada Store, to those who took the time to chat with my about Fascinations at the weekend even Thunder in the Mountains, I really felt a lot of connection to all of you Coloradans. Heck, we even broke our LTS record with upwards of 85 attendees at our Full Spectrum Sexuality event. Let’s keep up the momentum with Lolita Wolf on August 5th and Dr. Jenni Skyler August 19th.

This week, I’m heading to Tucson with Sarah Sloane (although I’m sad to be missing Sinclair Sexmith in Portland), and am excited to see even more new faces (and some of the old), and just wanted to thank you all for being some of the best customers, learners, bloggers, commentators, followers, fans, and like-rs in the whole universe. Y’all rock!

Sometimes, it can feel like Tucson is a whole state away from Phoenix, which makes it hard for people to get to attend our free Let’s Talk Sex sexuality education seminars in the PHX area. Ergo, we’re bringing in national sexuality educator and presenter Sarah Sloane for not one, but TWO free classes at our Tucson store this week!

We start on July 22nd with Full Body Fellatio.

There’s more to sex than just “Tab A into Slot B”…and there’s more to Fellatio than deep-throating! Regardless of the kind of cock you’re working with – big, small, silicone, flesh, cut or uncut, there are hundreds of things you can do as part of a blow-job to make your partner’s toes curl, fingers clench, and brain explode. We’ll talk about erogenous zones, the right mindset for giving head, integrating some extra added bonuses into what you’re doing, and even how to make safer sex practices (like barriers) work to help, rather than hinder, the pleasure. We’ll even talk about how to work around physical limitations to make showing off your oral expertise more pleasurable for you, too!
Food and drink will be served, and a free raffle will take place.

This class is in the series of Let’s Talk Sex workshops put on by Fascinations. Like other workshops in this series, they are all free, and 18+. Spaces are first come, first serve. All stores are accessible.

All attendees will get a FREE $10 gift card to Fascinations, just for showing up!

And then, on the 23rd of July, she’s back for BDSM 101: The Keys to Kink!

BDSM 101: The Keys to Kink
So you’ve been fantasizing about taking charge with your lover (or vice versa), or you’ve been fondling the spanking & flogging toys when you visit sex shops…or maybe you’re already exploring but want to learn even more. Trust us when we tell you – you’re not alone! Sarah Sloane, experienced sex educator and BDSM practitioner, will give you a fun, practical, and tantalizing guide to kink. From the inside jobs of determining what you want and how to get comfortable with getting it, to negotiating your fantasies with a partner, we’ll take the concept into the realm of reality – and give you a basic understanding of the varieties of kink and how to include them in your bedroom (or out-of-the-bedroom) play!

Food and drink will be served, and a free raffle will take place!

This class is in the series of Let’s Talk Sex workshops put on by Fascinations. Like other workshops in this series, they are all free, and 18+. Spaces are first come, first serve. All stores are accessible.

All attendees will get a FREE $10 gift card to Fascinations, just for showing up!

I know, I know, sometimes Portland doesn’t get as many awesome classes, so for this, we’re pulling out all the stops, and flying Sinclair Sexsmith from East Coast to West Coast, just to teach an amazing Strap On 101 class in PDX.

Interested in strapping on a cock? Not sure where to start? Come to this interactive workshop with Sinclair Sexsmith, experienced strap-on aficionado, for tips and suggestions on what kinds of dildos and harnesses will be right for you, and how to strap it on with gusto. We’ll talk about how cocks can be played with and experienced by every gender, and how to have more cock confidence.

Food and drink will be served, and a free raffle will take place!

This class is in the series of Let’s Talk Sex workshops put on by Fascinations. Like other workshops in this series, they are all free, and 18+. Spaces are first come, first serve. All stores are accessible.

All attendees will get a FREE $10 gift card to Fascinations, just for showing up!

This fabulous sexual communication workshop is taught in Scottsdale, AZ by national sexuality educator Juicy Justine, on July 15th, 7pm.

Not sure how to tell your partner what’s really on your mind? Want to get the most out of your relationships? Communication is the glue that ties relationships together. Learn to effectively communicate your feelings, wants, needs, fantasies, and desires with your partner/s through interactive exercises and role-plays. Not currently in a relationship? No problem! Come alone or bring a friend.

Food and drink will be served, and a free raffle will take place!

This class is in the series of Let’s Talk Sex workshops put on by Fascinations. Like other workshops in this series, they are all free, and 18+. Spaces are first come, first serve. All stores are accessible.

All attendees will get a FREE $10 gift card to Fascinations, just for showing up!

And if that wasn’t enough?

In this workshop, national sexuality educator Juicy Justine will discuss how to set the mood, different sex positions, sex toys, safer sex, light bondage and products used for better positioning. Bring a partner, a yoga mat or blanket to sit on, and wear comfy clothes!

This class is in the series of Advanced Workshops put on by Fascinations. Like other workshops in this series, they are all 18+. Spaces are first come, first serve. All stores are accessible.

Cost is sliding scale $10-$20. Please pay what you can afford. $20 tickets include a $15 gift card to Fascinations.

Space is limited. Purchase tickets in advance by clicking here and buying online or at her July 15th Let’s Talk Sex event.

Shanna is heading to Denver to teach a rocking new class that delves into the huge spectrum of sexuality. Her Full Spectrum Sexuality and Sensational Sex Toys workshop is going to be this coming Thursday (July 15th) at our Fascinations store in Arvada, Colorado. Admission is free (18+ only), and all in attendance get a $10 gift card good at all Fascinations stores and online, as well as refreshments and there will be a free raffle. So bring your friends, your family, and your lovers, and learn a little bit more about sexuality, sex toys and so much more!

25% off EVERYTHING at FunLove.com!

Hey folks – it’s Independence Day, and what better way to celebrate our freedom (particularly our sexual freedom) than by getting toys, lubes, condoms, books, DVDs, BDSM items, massage oils and much much more…all at 25% off.

That’s right, you heard me. Every thing at FunLove.com is 25% off today, no exceptions. All you have to do is head over to Fascinations, add items to your cart, and you’ll be right on your way!

We hope you enjoy, and have a fabulous and safe 4th of July. We’ll see you on the flip side.

Midori is an internationally known sexuality educator who just put on two amazing classes for Fascinations here in the Phoenix area. If you couldn’t make it to them (or did, and didn’t get enough of her), she and amazing writer/present Laura Antionou are presenting this fabulous weekend long, D/s centric intensive in Toronto. Thought we’d pass along the info in case you might be interested. The two people putting this on come highly recommended!

-Shanna

Passionate Bonds: Creating EmPowered D/s Relationships

Do you want to make your D/s relationship the best it can be for you and your partners?

http://www.fhp-inc.com/passionatebonds.html

Instructed by Midori & Laura Antoniou
Join Marketplace series author Laura Antoniou and educator Midori for a special weekend intensive designed for people who enjoy authentic power dynamics and D/s, who want to consciously create quality relationships that suit their personal hungers & needs in the context of the real world

Event Dates: July 30th through August 1, 2010.
Location: Private Location, Downtown Toronto
Registration now open!
Cost: $450 first person in the order, $400 for each additional individual.
Class size will be strictly limited to allow for a unique quality experience emphasizing individualized attention. Through the unique curriculum and its innovative tools, each individual or relationship unit will create their own customized manual of effective protocol, rules, etiquette and codes of conduct.

Tired of searching for the ultimate guide to your D/s or SM relationship? Do you want to make your BDSM relationship the best it can be for you and your partners?

Join Marketplace series author Laura Antoniou and internationally acclaimed educator Midori for a special weekend intensive designed for real people who enjoy power dynamics and want bring a level of authenticity and quality to their relationships.

Students will learn about the many styles of relationships we enjoy, and, through guided lessons and exercises, will discover their own unique relationship needs and systems. The instructors work closely with each student to help them learn and explore, and there is plenty of time throughout the weekend for personal reflection as well as pure fun!

There are no requirements for experience or expertise; anyone who desires or engages in relationships in which dominance and submission or the expression of power exchange is welcome. Full engagement and participation in the workshop is required; communication and a willingness to fully explore the work is of vital importance. This weekend is excellent for those already involved in such relationships or households of 2 or more people; it’s also ideal for the individual who wishes to gain a clearer concept of their own needs and desires on a solo basis.

Fascinations Partners with Je Joue to Demystify the G-Spot

CHANDLER, Ariz.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Fascinations, the leading educational romance retailer, is partnering with established adult toy company Je Joue to help educate people about the G-spot, what it is, why it’s important and how to put it best to use.

Earlier this year, Kings College University published research that attempted to debunk the concept of a G-spot (the Gräfenberg spot), a pleasure center inside the vaginal canal. While its research has proven to be problematic, it has opened the door for many questions and provided teachable moments around women’s sexual health and well-being.

Fascinations and Je Joue are determined to affirm the healthy aspects of female sexuality and remind people that while it is not the end all and be all, the G-spot does exist, and can provide infinite amounts of pleasure to those women who are able to find and stimulate it. While much research exists exploring male sexual functioning, significantly less time, money and research has been dedicated to women, their anatomy and how different women feel sexual pleasure.

The G-spot has been the subject of several recent studies. Dr. Beverly Whipple and her fellow scientists did an in-depth study of women, their anatomy and how they experienced pleasure, and published their findings in the book The G-Spot and Other Discoveries about Human Sexuality. This amazing study was read, disseminated and repeated with permutations by scientists throughout the world. More recently, the book The Science of Orgasm delves deeper into the G-spot, anatomy, biochemistry and the multitude of body functions that occur in order to create pleasure.

Shanna Katz, M.Ed., is the Resident Sexuality Educator for Fascinations, and is emphatic in her support for the existence and usefulness of the G-spot. “The G-spot exists. How can you argue with the empirical evidence of millions of women, internationally, who have discovered their own G-spot? This, coupled with the decades of scientific studies about the Gräfenberg spot, lead me to be 100% confident that there is such an area on the female body.” Katz goes on and speaks to the G-spot’s relevance in sexuality. “While I think it is important to note the existence of such an area for pleasure, it’s also crucial to mention that it is not the only way to get pleasure. When we talk about sexuality, we need to look at the full spectrum — mental, emotional and physical — and embrace all parts of female sexuality and pleasure.”

Je Joue has a new premium toy that is designed with one purpose in mind: to help women find and stimulate their G-spots. The G-Ki, released last year, has the perfect curve, shape and angle to help women (and their partners) discover their G-spots with the help of a firm material and variable vibration. The G-Ki is 100% body friendly, and is a wonderful way for women to explore their bodies, and help prove the existence of the Gräfenberg spot. Fascinations is featuring the G-Ki at all of its locations and online throughout June and July to help women discover and pleasure their G-spots.

Fascinations operates 16 store locations in Arizona, Colorado and Oregon in addition to a strong online presence at www.funlove.com. For more information about Fascinations and its commitment to health, well-being and sexuality education, please contact Michael Ham at 480-921-8006, extension 500, or visit www.funlove.com.

About Fascinations

Fascinations is the leading retailer expressly committed to celebrating sexuality and providing sex education. The stores offer exciting and exclusive intimacy enhancing events and merchandise. The modern ambiance provides a tasteful environment that greets guests from all walks of life. Customers seeking to enhance the most intimate aspects of their relationship will find pleasure enhancing toys, intimate apparel, body lotions, and books, both in store and online. Additionally, www.funlove.com offers interesting and educational articles and reviews. Fascinations delivers a unique, healthy, positive experience to all of its guests.

This month has just been chock full of sex ed workshops in Denver, Phoenix, and Portland.

However, before we hit June, we’ve got TWO more FREE sex ed workshops for you this Thursday.

In Denver, we have Sarah Sloane teaching Press Here for More Options: G-Spot Play at 7pm at our Arvada store (5197 W. 64th Ave).

So, you’re a pro at getting yourself (or your partner) off in dozens of ways – but have you checked out your G-spot lately? The G-spot, or Grafenberg Spot, is a sensitive place that can be coaxed into adding some serious zing to your solo or partnered play…and it’s not as mysterious as you might think! Come spend an hour with Sarah Sloane and learn how to find it, touch it, stroke it, vibrate it, toy with it, and make it squirt!

The same night in Phoenix, we have Catherine Toyooka teaching Love Your Body Now by Finding Your Fabulousness at our Tempe store (838 W. Elliot).

About 80% of American women and 45% of American men are dissatisfied with their appearance. No doubt about it, our society is obsessed with the ideal of perfection. Is it really surprising that we have body issues?

This thought provoking, interactive workshop will let participants explore the root of their own body issues, how it has affected them and prevented them from truly embracing their sexuality, and most importantly, how to combat the constant barrage of media attention focusing on perfection.

This workshop will also explore the reality of genital shame and how it can affect us from celebrating our sexual selves.

These classes are in the series of Let’s Talk Sex workshops put on by Fascinations. Like other workshops in this series, they are all free, and 18+.

All attendees will get a FREE $10 gift card to Fascinations, food and drink, and entry into a raffle, just for showing up!

This Thursday, May 20th, I Shanna Katz am teaching Navigating Love: Relationship Mapping in Portland, OR. It’ll be about how to make everything in your life fit; love, family, friends, job, etc. Plus, we’ll make our own relationship maps, and touch on the concept of consensual non-monogamy.

Description: A basic training with resident sexuality educator Shanna Katz, M.Ed on the basic types of relationships that people have (primary, secondary and tertiary) in their lives, how we can map them, patterns to look for, and what we can get out of these maps when we try to balance life, love, friends, work and more. Also, we’ll talk about polyamory/non-monogamy – its various facets, how to get into it, whether or not it is for you, and most importantly, how we can make it work when there are more than two people involved.

Time/Date: 7pm May 20th

Location: Fascinations

9515 SE 82nd Ave Portland, OR 97266

Cost: FREE!

Summation: As always, the classes are at 7pm, are 100% free, are 18+ only, will have food and drink and raffles, and of course, a free $10 gift card to all those attending.

Call for Participants: Sexually Able

Sexually Able aims to bring light upon sexuality and disability, and create a path for peoples’ voices to be heard.

What is it? It’s a large scale survey of self identified people with disabilities and their partners. Eventually, it’ll be turned into a book for people to read, enjoy and see the rich and diverse sexuality that is within the disability community.

Why is this needed? As we enter the second decade of the 21st century, there is still a large gap in people’s minds when they think about sexuality as it relates to people with disabilities, whether cognitively or physically. While some studies have been performed regarding the potential for differently-able people to lead satisfying sexual lives, in which satisfying seems to center around the ability to orgasm, very little has been written about the experiences involving the sexualities and experiences of people who identify as people with disabilities/ handicapped/disabled/differently-able, as well as their partners.

People of all ability levels are sexual beings. Sex is hard enough to navigate and negotiate when one fits in with society’s notions of what a sexual being is, but once you add in the concept of ability, it can become quite challenge. This book, through these surveys, seeks to bring forward the stories, challenges and experiences of people of various ability levels and their partners, putting a face on the trials that so many valuable members of our society must face and the positive experiences as well. By sharing the experiences of the dis/ability community in relation to sexuality, Sexually Able hopes to challenge people’s viewpoints, foster discussion and conversation, and open doors towards a shift in the social constructions surrounding sexuality and disability.

What does it involve?

Just fill out one of the surveys (for people with disabilities or for partners of PWD), send it in, and have your voice and experiences heard. You’re welcome to take your time, and fill in as much or as little information as you’d like. If you need assistance in completing your survey, please let us know. Please feel free to pass this site/these surveys on to your friends, lovers, support groups, therapists, doctors, caregivers, and anyone else that may identify as having a disability or as a partner of someone with a disability.

For more information and/or to fill out the surveys, please visit http://sexuallyable.wordpress.com. Questions? Email SexuallyAbleBook@gmail.com.

Who is behind Sexually Able?

Shanna Katz M.Ed is a full spectrum sexuality educator with a Master’s of Human Sexuality Education from Widener University, and a member of AASECT (the American Association of Sexuality Educator, Counselors and Therapists). As a sexuality educator, she travels the country teaching workshops at colleges, sex toy stores, dungeons, sexuality conferences and more.

Shanna has a special interest in working in sexuality and dis/ability, and runs workshops and discussions about the intersection of these identities, how to build sex positivity in communities of PWD, negotiating disability in a BDSM context and more. She’s also working on an anthology regarding sexuality and dis/ability, entitled Sexual Ability.

Note on definitions of disability (or the lack of): This survey is for those who identify as someone with a disability, someone who is disable, someone who is differently able, any other such identity and the partners of the former. There is no hierarchy of disability, nor is there any exact definition. If you identify as one of the aforementioned, please feel free to take the survey.

The winner of the contests is Ashley from Pussy Goes Grr. Click here to see what she’ll be winning!

Didn’t win? Never you fear. We’ll have tons more contests and giveaways…here, and on our twitter, and on Facebook!

Yes, you heard me right. Today, for many, it is Tax Day of Evil. However, here at Fascinations, we’re making it Tax Relief Day.

What does this mean to you? It means that EVERYTHING in stores and online is 25% off from 8am PST until Midnight PST TODAY, April 15th. 25% off – how amazing is that?

And if that wasn’t all, we’re also giving out FREE SHIPPING on everything you purchase during Tax Day — no minimum purchase needed.

You want MORE? Fine. We’ll throw in some free lube with every order too. Why not? Let’s stick it to Uncle Sam!

So go forth…get that toy you’ve always wanted but could never quite afford. Stock up for graduation, mother’s day, father’s day, Christmas in July, birthdays, etc. 25% off can save you a LOT of money, no matter what it is that you’re buying. And enjoy the free shipping too while you’re at it.

Ready to start shopping? Click here to start saving!

Last weekend, I attended the Phoenix Forum Webmasters Convention in Tempe, AZ (designed for webmasters in the adult industry, and people/companies who work with, support, etc them).

I met some great people, made some people’s day (we gave away some free gift cards!), and caught a bit too much sun…apparently SPF 70 isn’t even enough for my super pale skin. We’re looking at working more with Stockroom, checking out some other affiliate programs, and of course, launching OUR awesome affiliate program in May at GoFunLove.com.

However, one of the highlights of the weekend was meeting with and hanging out with (and going to the seminars with) the sexy and sassy Kelly Shibari; performer, marketer, consultant and really sexy BBW who recently started PaddedKink.com.

We chatted up sex, porn, toys, and much more…but my favorite part was when I took her into one of our Fascinations stores and convinced her to get this sexy bikini. Meeeee-ow! If only all of my weekends were like this.

Want to check out more of Kelly? We carry some of her movies, including one of my favorites ever, Behind the Red Door!

Although we would all like to think we’re experts at going down south, every single one of us could stand to learn a thing or two about oral sex. As such, Fascinations is offering two interactive classes that aim to develop your skills.

The week of April 5, we’ll be hosting two expert presenters in both the Denver and Phoenix areas.

On April 7, Shanna Katz, M.Ed., Fascinations’ Resident Sexuality Educator will be at our newest Scottsdale store at 7pm doing a seminar on cunnilingus:

Not in the Phoenix area? Never fear! Dr. Jenni Skyler (www.TheIntimacyInstitute.org) will be giving the Denver area a workshop on April 8 entitled “Fabulous Fellatio.” The workshop is FREE and we’re offering a FREE $10 Fascinations Gift Card to all attendees the night of the event!

All classes are part of the sexuality education series that Fascinations is committed to providing at low or no cost to the public. First come, first seated.

Hope to see you there!

Ever wanted to head out in public, vibrator down below and remote in the hand of your lover, partner, or perhaps some stranger you’ve just met, controlling the vibrations and functions of your pleasure?

All that and more can be yours. This week, Fascinations is giving away a 7-Function Remote Bullet.

It’s Velvet Cote, so no phthalates here (although it is NOT sterilizable). Great for play privately or in public, on nipples, testicles, clits and more. Please do NOT put this in your butt — we’ve got plenty of great butt toys for that!

How do you win?

The concept of a remote vibrator was a brilliant one, that only came about fairly recently. Someone was just sitting there thinking “you know what kind of sex toy they should make? A wireless egg!” and poof – it came into existence.

So we challenge you; what is missing on the market? If you could invent a new cool sex toy, what would it be like? We don’t need all of the engineering behind it or blueprints…we just want to know what kind of toys you’d like to see that just aren’t available yet. Leave a comment, and you’ll be entered to win! 18+ only, and shipping is free for US address (abroad — you can still win, but will need to pay shipping).

Deadline: March 28th, 3pm PST.

Time to get your thinking caps on!

Ever wonder how to try out bondage, or start with some spankings? Questioned kink, or wanted to know exactly what that toy was supposed to be used for?

You’re in luck! Next week, we’ll be having kink-tabulous speakers in both the Denver and Phoenix areas.

March 25th, Mistress Saskia of Pavlovia Denver will be at our Aurora store at 7pm doing a seminar on basic kink:

Not in the Denver area? Never fear! Lee Harrington (www.PassionAndSoul.com) will be giving the Phoenix area not one, but TWO workshops on March 25th (FREE Intro to Kink class), and March 26th ($10-$20 sliding scale workshop on Bondage for Lovemaking — $20 ticket includes $15 gift card).

All classes are part of the sexuality education series that Fascinations is committed to providing at low or no cost to the public. Please wear public appropriate attire, and be 18+. First come, first seated.

Hope to see you there!

Not really a likely combo, many would say. But to us, positive sexuality belongs anywhere and everywhere!

We here at Fascinations are proud to be the sponsors of the Phoenix Mavericks, a GLBTQ softball team that is part of the Cactus Cities Softball League out here in AZ. Check out the hot jersey we’ve got a picture of up above. If you get a chance, try and hit up one of their games and show them some love.

Good luck Mavericks! And even if you don’t win, I’m sure we can help you find something to cheer you up!

Wedensday, March 17th, we’ve got an exciting event at our Portland store. Famed sex educator Tristan Taormino will be presenting the Expert Guide to Sex Toys, a free workshop at your local Fascinations.

What exactly does the Expert Guide to Sex Toys entail?

Are you looking to liven up solo sex, hit hot spots more easily, or give your partner new sensations? Sex expert, writer, and adult filmmaker, Tristan Taormino, author of The Big Book of Sex Toys, wants to help you use toys and other accessories to take your sex life to the next level! She’ll share her picks for the best lube, vibrators (including compact, clitoral, wearable, insertable, dual-action, and luxury vibes), dildos, strap-on harnesses, butt plugs, men’s toys, G-spot and prostate toys, sensation play tools, bondage, and more! She’ll talk about creative ways to use toys and other sexy goodies to transform your bedroom into an erotic playground. Plus, you’ll be able to ask her all your burning questions in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Join Tristan as she takes you on a tour of all you need to know to have sensational, mind-blowing sex!

Sounds great, I know. Want the details?

Who: Tristan Taormino (Puckerup.com) and Fascinations

When: March 17, 2010 7pm

Where: Fascinations at 9515 SE 82nd Ave. in Portland, OR (you can contact them at (503) 774-4345)

Cost: FREE!

How: Just show up. It’s free for all (18+), but attendance is first come, first served. Tristan’s last presentation (in Denver) was standing room only!

Our very own residential sex educator Shanna Katz, and another awesome sex educator Sarah Sloane (who will be presenting at one of our Denver area stores in May) were both on March 7′s episode of Kink on Tap.

What is Kink on Tap?

Kink On Tap is more than just a net-cast about sexuality; it’s also a community of people for whom intelligent conversations about sexuality and how sexuality relates to other aspects of their lives is a motivating force for Doing Good.

That said, Shanna and Sarah joined the hosts in some interesting conversations including sex positivity, how different people define sex, sex positive/amateur vs mainstream porn, the transphobia surround Angelia Jolie and her child, gender identities, flash-mobs in the Netherlands, and social justice/equality among sex education. Fascinations was mentioned as one of the few sexuality stores to provide regular FREE sexuality classes, making sex education more accessible to people of varying ages and social economic statuses.

Click here to check out all of the above and more on this episode of Kink on Tap!

Ok.

So I totally get that sometimes, you try out new underwear, or a new sexy toy, and you realize it’s the wrong size (oh yes, for toys too), or it’s the wrong color, or style or you couldn’t afford it, etc. Yes, most companies take returns and exchanges.

What to we do? Buh-by. If someone returns/exchanges a toy, we send it back to the manufacturer, so that they can see what happened, and continue to improve the design of the toy (unless the package tampering stuff hasn’t been messed with, it clearly has not been opened, etc). If it’s lingerie, it doesn’t matter if the tags are still on it or not; it’s done. Gone. Off the floor, never to be seen by public eyes again.

You may be asking as to why someone would even be talking about this, yes?

It’s because there was a big expose on how Victoria Secret’s, Macys, Bloomingdales and more are taking back USED underwear, and putting it back on the shelves. There is even a video of a clerk taking an obviously worn pair of underwear with not tags, doing the return, re-attaching tags, and putting it back on the rack.

Don’t believe me? See for yourself!

I just want to assure all of our fans/customers/etc that we NEVER do that. Not with toys, not with lingerie. It’s just gross.

That’s all.

Thursday, March 4th, we’ve got an exciting event at our Aurora store in the Denver Metro area. Famed sex educator Tristan Taormino will be presenting the Expert Guide to Sex Toys, a free workshop at your local Fascinations.

What exactly does the Expert Guide to Sex Toys entail?

Are you looking to liven up solo sex, hit hot spots more easily, or give your partner new sensations? Sex expert, writer, and adult filmmaker, Tristan Taormino, author of The Big Book of Sex Toys, wants to help you use toys and other accessories to take your sex life to the next level! She’ll share her picks for the best lube, vibrators (including compact, clitoral, wearable, insertable, dual-action, and luxury vibes), dildos, strap-on harnesses, butt plugs, men’s toys, G-spot and prostate toys, sensation play tools, bondage, and more! She’ll talk about creative ways to use toys and other sexy goodies to transform your bedroom into an erotic playground. Plus, you’ll be able to ask her all your burning questions in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Join Tristan as she takes you on a tour of all you need to know to have sensational, mind-blowing sex!

Sounds great, I know. Want the details?

Who: Tristan Taormino (Puckerup.com) and Fascinations

When: March 4, 2010 7pm

Where: Fascinations at 2680 S. Havana Street in Aurora, Colorado (you can contact them at (303) 750-5200)

Cost: FREE!

How: Just show up. It’s free for all (18+), but attendance is first come, first served. Tristan’s last presentation (in Arizona) was standing room only!

As we near the end of this month of romance, we thought we’d give everyone another chance to win a lovely romantic kit. This Bed of Roses kit is the deluxe version, and contains 200 scented silk rose petals, rose scented bubble bath, edible chocolate massage oil, a back massager, four tea light candles, a special invitation card for your lover, and course, a beautiful black satin bag to carry it all in.

And we want YOU to get this kit to share with your partner. Perhaps you take a weekend get away to Sedona or Aspen, and indulge in front of the fire. Perhaps it’s a last minute trip to Vegas, and you share all of this romance over the strip. Who knows!

How do you enter? Just leave a comment here before 1pm MST on Sunday, February 28th with where your ideal romantic getaway would be, and you’re entered.

We’ll cover domestic shipping (those outside the US can still enter, but must pay for their own shipping), and all entrants must be 18+ with a valid email address in the comment.

So start thinking…are you more of a beach bum or ski bunny? Elegant in Europe or adventurous in Africa? The choice is up to you.

Let the fantasies begin!

I know, I know, this is a bit of blowing our own horn, but we just had to tell you.

Dr. Neil Cannon was asked to come up with his top 14 sexuality sites for AccessRX, and we made his list at number 8. Impressed? So are we, given who else is on the list.

Click here to see all 14 of Dr. Cannon’s favorite sexuality sites!

Dr. Neil Cannon

About Dr. Cannon

Dr. Neil Cannon is a couples counselor and certified sex therapist in the Denver metro area. Dr. Neil is also a Board Certified sexologist. As a professional speaker and sexuality educator, he travels the world with a sex positive message that is entertaining and informative. Dr. Neil is a faculty member at Denver Family Institute, the leading marriage and family therapy school in the Rocky Mountains. Dr. Neil Cannon has a Doctoral degree in Human Sexuality, a Masters degree in Public Health and certification in marriage and family therapy.

Click here to visit Dr. Cannon’s site.

This past weekend, we were lucky enough to get to talk with Fox News 10 Phoenix about Hypo-active Sexual Desire Disorder, as well as fostering communication and intimacy as part of relationships. I got to be interviewed as part of it, and I think they did a fabulous job of keeping this clip informative, sex-positive and well done.

Click here to see our news clip.