Shopping at an adult store can feel super awesome and freeing, but it can also be scary, uncomfortable or anxiety-inducing. Trust me I know. I’m one of a few women who can say she worked in a real-deal sex store in high school. It was a wild experience, but that’s a story for another time. Today I’m giving you some first-timer sex store tips from a sex store worker that will significantly enhance your experience.
First, not all sex stores are made equally. I’m not saying the big markets off the highway aren’t full of great products and great people, but if you have the choice between one of those guys and a locally owned shop with great reviews, I would pick the latter option.
Now I don’t want to deter you from the big chain stores, but sometimes they can be intimidating. If you are looking for a great option in Gainesville, I worked at Lingerie Co. and that is an ideal option for a first-time shopper. It’s woman-owned with pink walls, a big couch to chat on and a purple leopard print carpet last time I checked. It’s fun and cutsie and welcoming, and if you have access, I’d highly recommend checking it out.
Next, I encourage you to come with people that you are comfortable with. Maybe that’s your significant other, best friend or just yourself. Just ask yourself who, if anyone, makes you come out of your shell to talk about sexuality, and that’s the person you want to go with.
This right here is, I think, the most important tip, but must be handled with care. Ask questions! Adult store workers are there to help you, so don’t wander around like a lost puppy. They’re likely very knowledgeable about the products and would be excited to get a chance to talk about them. I loved answering all the nitty gritty explicit questions and helping people find products that make them happy.
Here’s the catch. There are inappropriate questions to ask, so I have one major tip: ask questions about the products, not about the worker’s sex life. For instance, ask, “Do you recommend this dildo?” not “Do you use this dildo?” It puts workers in an uncomfortable scenario when customers ask for personal details. Workers face a lot of strange experiences in this industry, I know I have, and following this simple rule will help make both of your experiences way better.
Lastly, when it comes to buying products, there’s no one-fits-all way to do it, but if you don’t have a specific product you’re looking for and you just want to explore, then explore! Sex stores are awesome because they often have samples and products at an array of price points. Buy condoms, massage oil and lube samples so you can test what you like without having to commit to the bit.
As for toys, I’m not saying to go for the most expensive toy, but the cheapest ones are often not built for safety and longevity. Getting toys in the middle of the price spectrum for that toy is probably your best bet. For instance, $5 is a sketchy price for a vibrator, but a great price for a c*ck ring. Look at the array of product prices and consider aiming for the midpoint or above.
Sex stores are so dang cool, and I spend half my days trying to convince my girlfriends to check them out. It can add an unbeatable level of quality and complexity to your sex life. With these tips in your pocket, I hope you check out a sex store near you and have a fabulous experience!