Just a Taste… By Medusa

Aphrodite, the ancient Greek god of sexual love and beauty, introduced the concept of aphrodisiacs to help enhance our desire, excitement, stamina, and performance. Aphrodisiacs work via our senses, including sight, smell, touch, sound, and taste. Finding which sense is most enticing gives you a chance to further explore your sexuality and create more fulfilling and bold sexual experiences. And, I’ve discovered my favorite type of aphrodisiac…

I’m something of a foodophile. I feel sexually aroused by consuming or being in contact with food… not junk food, but fresh, beautiful, healthy food! And, no I’m not humping asparagus or pineapples. Like seeing your main squeeze, I get giddy about food. A tingling, light-headed sensation flows over my body. My skin becomes flushed. My eyes get big. My heart rate increases. Even my nipples become erect! Mmm… Its time to devour this plate of yummy goodness!

I have an affinity for certain foods – seafood, fresh fruits, and spices like cayenne pepper really get me going. The smells lifting from a honey-glazed salmon doused with lemon zest can send me to another place… like laying on the warm sands of my favorite beach with my partner as the sun sets and we inhale the ocean breeze. Biting into a ripe, fuzzy peach, licking the sweet juice dribbling from my lips? This sends me into the sweet memories of my first kiss. Sipping hot chocolate with a dash of cayenne pepper? My body warms up, like the sensation I get from being entangled in a deep, Winter embrace with the one I love.

I guess you could say my love for food and sexual intimacy go hand in hand for me. I’ve noticed that excitement for savory delights follow me into the bedroom. These foods can make me feel energized, alluring, alive…

After realizing these goodies have become profound aphrodisiacs for me, I spoke with my partner to see if we could incorporate a few  food items in bed. He agreed. Enthralled by the opportunity of getting my two loves together in one room without a table, I ran for the kitchen grabbing our favorites. Honey, chocolate syrup, and various fruits were gathered for the adventure. I blindfolded my partner and placed one cold strawberry on his lips. We took turns with the blindfold, placing each treat delicately on each others bodies, licking away the delicious residue they left.

The next morning we were sticky… VERY sticky. The night before had been a dream filled with luscious flavors and my lover. Why did I have to wake up sticky?! One word – sugar. Everything had sugar in it! We stuck to the bed sheets and each other. My fantasy turned into an infants high-chair.

The next day I went into work determined to find alternatives that would be equally as intoxicating, but mush less messy. There, I found a magical land of decadent oils, lubricants, gels, and even honey dust! Overjoyed by the treasure chest of options, I tested as many edibles as possible. Tasting the products that mirrored my favorite flavors and scents, I chose one oil, one lubricant, and one honey dust. Then, I prepared myself for a smooth, sensual, stickiness free evening! Not only was our evening less messy, it was more enjoyable. Using flavored intimate products is much better for your body, more hygienic. Also, the flavoring increase your salivary response, which will increase the natural lubrication you need for all oral pleasures.

One of our most sensually pleasing brands is Kama Sutra. This luxury brand of intimate products supplies a host of edibles – flavored massage oils, candied body dusts, savory and sweet lubes, and rich and creamy body soufflés. Only the gift of love itself could be more intoxicating than these tasty delights.

Another of our sensual menu items? All of the flavored lubes from System Jo… These high-quality, water-based lubricants come in such a huge variety of flavors. You’ll feel like the proverbial kid in a candy store! Chocolate, pomegranate, raspberry, lemon, tropical fruit, cherry, strawberry, banana, cherry… Something for every palate… and every body part.

Want to expand your own menu? Check out our edible lubes, oils and lotions, and more!

Penis Pumps 101… by Danny Z

These days, I find myself getting more and more questions about our penis pumps. I am not happy about the narrow-mindedness most of the questions, though. It seems that most customers believe pumps are “for people with problems”. However, that is not always the case. To me, it’s like saying people who use straws when they drink must have neck problems. Using a penis pump doesn’t mean you have a problem. Maybe you do. But maybe, you just like the fullness it brings to your erection. Or, perhaps you just like the sucking sensation.

Yes, people who have erectile dysfunction, blood pressure problems, or diabetes can use the pumps to achieve and maintain an erection. Maybe you’re saying to yourself, “I don’t have any of those issues. Why would I want to use a pump?” Well, penis pumps will actually help ANY penis reach max potential in length and thickness. Don’t get me wrong… it won’t make your penis bigger. BUT, it will make it the biggest it can be… and that is always a plus!

How can a penis pump help you reach max potential? It does so by gently sucking on the penis, therefore increasing blood flow to the penis. So basically, it enhances the natural process that causes erections in the first place. The increased blood flow is maintained with the use of a cock ring, which you slide on after you remove the pump. This restricts the blood from leaving the penis, and maintains the girth effect pumps provide. The rings are used during intercourse or masturbation, and will help you last longer and cum bigger. I don’t know about you, but I’ve never complained about an orgasm being too powerful! So, that’s a side effect of using penis pumps that I am completely ok with…

Now, let’s talk about how you actually use a penis pump. First, I suggest getting a little aroused. Then, slip the cock ring down your shaft with the help of your favorite water based lubricant. Next, place a little bit of water based lube on the rim of the penis pump. This will help ease of entry. Then, slide your penis into the shaft of the pump and make sure it fits securely. Start squeezing the pump, slowly at first until you get used to the sensation. There will be a slight feeling of restriction. But if there is any discomfort, ease off the pumping or stop completely. In other words, be cautious when pumping. Pumps restrict and contract the veins in the penis. If you get over zealous, there is a possibility of injury. Be safe and play nice. Once you have pump your penis to your desired erection, slide out gently! If you want to remove the cock ring, simply slide it off. It’s easier to get off with the aid of a little lube. Otherwise, leave it on the cock ring and have at it!

I hope you give one of our penis pumps a try. It’s not for everyone. But, it can bring another dimension to your sex life or masturbation time. So, pump it up and get it on!

Suggested Pumps:

I like anything from the Pump Worx line by Pipedream. They are reasonably priced and of good quality. They also offer a large variety of pumps that offer different sensations and functions like vibration.

I’m also a fan of the James Deen brand pump. It is also reasonably priced and of good quality. Plus, it has a gauge to help you remember your desired level of pressure.

Also, check out our pump selection online! http://thereddoorstore.com/index.php/fun-with-toys/pumps/mens-pumps

You Put Your Junk In It… by Danny Z

I feel as though I was raised in a macho-man bubble as a child. Every time I saw a man in the media, he would always be a MANLY… the kind of men who wore boxers and would never purchase sexy underwear for fear of embarrassment. But, as I have gotten older, I realize wearing sexy man underwear is not such a bad thing.

Which brings me to my point of discussion… We carry men’s underwear in the store. I have always been a little curious about some of the styles.  Recently, I was fortunate enough to be given a pair of these “designer” underwear as a gift. They were a pair of our Andrew Christian briefs. I was anxious to try them on, as I have always been a die-hard boxer man. But, I have heard a lot of positive things about them from customers.

Here are my thoughts about them… The briefs are created from a very comfortable, silky smooth cotton blend. They’re a LOT more comfortable than the regular packaged boxers that I usually purchase. The pair I received have a pouch for the penis. The pouch is designed to separate the shaft from the testicles. The separation increases blood flow to the shaft, making my penis look thicker and longer. The briefs also hug tightly to my testicles, creating a more form-enhancing fit and giving me some swing control. While the pouch was a little weird at first, it took me very little time for me to get uses to the feeling. By having the pouch, it helps my penis avoid having to pick which pant leg it would it would like to hang out in for the day! Instead, it rests comfortably upfront, like a proud trophy.

At this point, you guys may be skeptical. But, I love the way they feel. I can sit for hours, without the constant leg shakes or thrust ups to keep my genitals comfortable. And, there are a lot of times I wear jeans or dress pants that, ahem, make my privates a little more public. These are my go to underwear for times like that. They actually make my pants fit better!

Whether you want to feel sexy, more in control of your manhood, or just want a better profile in your pants, you should try one of our many styles of men’s underwear. From boxer-briefs to briefs to thongs, we have something for all you manly men! I promise you will be pleasantly surprised… and so will that special someone in your life!

The Case for Lingerie

 

 

 

 

 

Let’s face it… If you are a woman, you more than likely have an oversized t-shirt you sleep in. It’s more than likely has a hole or two in it. Maybe it’s even got a stain… or two. Or, you have your comfortable PJ’s – tried and true, soft from the years of wear and repeated laundering. Perhaps you’re sassier than that. You sleep in the nude, or just panties.

There’s nothing wrong with any of the above sleep apparel habits. Nothing at all. But, if your love life is suffering, or you want to spice things up, all of the above are missing one thing – LINGERIE.

I know what you’re thinking…
… “Men don’t care about lingerie. They look at it for a few seconds, then ask you to take it off so they can get down to business.”
… “I can’t find anything that makes me look sexy.”
… “I can’t stand all those strings and hooks and itchy lace.”
… “I sleep naked. I don’t need lingerie.”

Stop. Stop right there. You’re wrong, about all of the above. And here’s why…

Lingerie isn’t just for men. It’s for you, too! The right lingerie can make you feel sexy and pretty and all around more confident about yourself. And all those things combined can and will improve your sex life. So, leave it on during the whole act if it helps you feel your sexiest.

And, you CAN find something that makes you look sexy. Lingerie doesn’t have to be skimpy or stringy. There is abundance of gorgeous lingerie in all kinds of styles and fit, for all shapes and sizes. Pick out something that covers your trouble spots and you WILL feel sexy! Small bust? Pick a style with molded cups to give you some extra oomph! Short legs? Pick a short chemise to make your legs look longer. Carrying extra weight or have a mom belly? Wear a A-line style that is fitted at the top and flares out to mask your belly. Self-conscious about your whole body? Wear an extra long satin negligee with a large slit up the side, for a glamorous, old-Hollywood look.

And lingerie doesn’t have to uncomfortable. There are plenty of fabric options when it comes to lingerie – satin, soft stretchy mesh, cotton/poly jersey blends, and more. Don’t fool yourself into believing that more lace, ribbons, and hooks = sexier. Even a cute cotton-blend bra and panty set can be super sexy! Don’t like G-strings? Find a sexy black panty to wear with any of the lingerie styles that may come with a thong. The substitution will look just as hot, and you won’t feel like your picking floss out our your crack. Or skip the panties all together!

And, even if you sleep naked, lingerie can benefit your sexy life. There’s something sexy about mystery, and lingerie provides mystery… even if just a little. Lingerie makes discovering your body like unwrapping a special present. Make taking lingerie off by giving your partner the slow tease with a private strip-show. Plus, leaving lingerie on during sex can be extremely erotic. Think of how it feels to have your panties slowly removed by your partner, or simply pushed aside so he can please you… It’s feels HOT! I’m telling ya!

I’m not saying to throw out your oversized tees and extra-loved PJ’s. I’m just saying that every now and then, you should put on that hot pink teddy or black mesh bodysuit. It can give your everyday sex life a little extra ooh-la-la! Need something new and sexy? Check out our online lingerie selection – http://thereddoorstore.com/index.php/boudoir-sexy. Like what you see? Visit any one of our 3 Charlotte locations for an even BIGGER selection of Missy and Plus size lingerie, hosiery, and corsets.

Super Penis – by Danny Z

Danny Z is a store employee who will be joining our blog from time to time. He’s here to give you the male perspective on products and sex! Read what he recently had to say about our male enhancement pills…

I’ve been working at the RedDoor for two years now. I recall my first few shifts in the store… Men would walk in and request one of our many “male enhancement pills.” I am a very skeptical person at heart. But, I was very curious as to why we sell dozens of these pills a day. At that time, I was ignorant about the product and didn’t grasp the concept of male enhancement pills. No one had educated me on their effects or benefits. Furthermore, the men who came in to purchase them were secretive about it, as if they found a gold mine and wanted to have all the treasure for themselves. After a while I got warmed up to the idea of trying one, but kept making excuses to avoid actually taking the plunge. One particular day, a regular customer came into the store to purchase a supplement, and I had to tell him we were sold out of his brand of choice. I watched him pace back and forth debating on how to “salvage” his evening. After a few spins, he called the lady he was supposed to meet up with to inform her that he was “too tired” and wanted to go home. This blew my mind! As a single male, that is something we just don’t do. The reaction the guy had blew my mind and I immediately purchased my first male supplement.

I had knowledge of what the supplements did, prior to taking them. Basically, they stay in your system for an X amount of days, depending on the dosage. During that time, they help with ease of arousal, maintain erections, create fuller erections, allow for quicker reload time, and increase the longevity of your sessions. I’ve heard at least a hundred or so men refer to this as “the superman pill.” Why, you may ask? As men, we all know things can hinder your erection – being too hot, having to pee, being tired, being nervous, or honestly just not being turned on. Penises are very strange organs. I can now speak from personal experience that NONE of those issues were present during use of the supplement.

Here’s what happened my first time… I took one 30 mins prior to heading over to my female friend’s house. As I felt the pill kicking in, I had slight thoughts of perversion. I met her at her house and put on my moves… or so I would like to think! Pretty soon, we started going at it. It was hot (temperature-wise), yet I lasted for 3 and a half hours of full action. There were no breaks. My penis did not give up or break down. I was dripping with sweat by the end of it, and my “friend” was as cool as could be. I was completely enthralled by the supplement. I couldn’t believe it. Eventually, I finished… after she had multiple orgasms. She laid there in bliss as I went to clean myself off. But within seconds, I was back at full mast and completely “ready” to go… AGAIN. The re-load time utterly shocked me… AND HER! I usually need about 30 minutes to recover and reload. But, this enhancement cut my reload time down greatly. Still to this day, I am amazed by the effects…

Long story short, I highly suggest you try one and make up your own mind… I know I am a believer!

Vibrators 101: things that make you go hmmm!

When you walk into one of our stores, we make a point to greet you with a warm welcome, as well as offer to answer any and all questions. We want you to feel safe and comfortable, like we’re a close friend with which you can share your secrets. Lots of customers jump right in and pick our brains for what’s hot. But, there are always the customers who quickly offer, “I’m just looking”, then hurriedly skitter away. Here’s what happens next… They wander around for a few minutes. They try NOT to look at any of the toys. Then, they sheepishly return to one of us and say, “I need help. I have no idea what I am looking for! I’ve never, ever bought something like this before!” We smile and jump right in to what I call our “101 talks.” Whatever you’re looking for, we know what to use, what’s the best of the best, and how to make the most of it.

One of the types of items we sell the most of would be vibrators. But, vibrators come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and colors. Not to mention, the can serve a variety of functions in the bedroom. Therefore, we frequently give “Vibrator 101” talks as we guide nervous, yet curious customers around the store. So, here’s my run-down on vibrators, just for you:

The Basic – This is also called a “starter vibe.” It’s not phallic in shape and is usually made of a smooth plastic material. These vibes usually have limited functions and speeds (think slow/medium/fast). Basic vibes run from small to medium in size, but run small in girth. They are great for someone who is looking for a starter toy, or just wants something inexpensive and basic. I suggest the Velvet Touch Vibe, by Doc Johnson. If you want a little more excitement from a basic vibe, try one of our Climax Gems by Topco for a textured experience!

The Bullet – This is also often referred to as an egg. Bullets are usually bullet-shaped, wand-shaped, or egg-shaped. They are usually made of a smooth plastic, or may be covered in a soft gel or silicone material. These vibes can range in function from a simple 3-speed to a 10 function ability, complete with pulses and patterns. Often times, they are attached to a remote. But, you can buy wireless versions. They range in size from 1″ to about the size of an egg. They are great for someone who wants clitoral stimulation during sex or masturbation. They are also good for vaginal use, if you’re looking for something on the small side. Bullets can range in price and quality, but here are my top 3 suggestions:

• The Teardrop Bullet, by Doc Johnson – Small, powerful, quiet, inexpensive… all good things!
• The 10 Function Wireless Remote Bullet, by Pipedream Products – Small, powerful, 10 orgasmic functions, and works from 25 feet away
• The Tango, by We Vibe – Small, REALLY powerful, waterproof, rechargeable, with a wide range of vibrating modes

Vibrating Dildos/Dongs – Now we’re getting into some serious trouble! This is where you will begin to find more variety in the selection of toys. If you’re looking for a vibrator that may resemble your lover, this is where you want to start. Vibrating dildos are phallic in shape and resemble penises – veins, ridges, curves and all. They are made of soft gels and silicone. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Sizes range from 5″ to 12″ (unless you special order). Girths can range from the slender to the very hefty! And, these vibes come in colors from natural skin colors to wild colors like pink, purple, and blue. They may have only 3 speeds, or they may have multi-function settings that include pulses and patterns. They will range in price and quality. I suggest you try one of our EZ Bend Dongs, by California Exotics.

Rabbits/Multi-Stims – Rabbit is the generic term to describe a vibrator that has both a vaginal shaft, as well as an external stimulator for the clitoris. Sometimes, these toys also have a 3rd stimulator for anal penetration. Like vibrating dildos & dongs, they are made of soft gels and silicone. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Sizes range from 5″ to 10″ (unless you special order). Girths can range from the slender to the very hefty! And, these vibes come in colors from natural skin colors to wild colors like pink, purple, and blue. They may have only 3 speeds, or they may have multi-function settings that include pulses and patterns. They will range in price and quality. Where they differ from vibrating dildos & dongs in that they often do not look realistic and may have see-through shafts which contain rotating beads. I suggest these toys, if you’re looking for a rabbit:

• For beginner’s – Try a Platinum Butterfly Kiss, by California Exotics. It’s small and has multi-function vibrations.
• For serious fun – Try the Thrusting Jack Rabbit, by California Exotics. Thrusting action and multi-function vibrations – YES!
• For premium fun – Try the Thrill by We-Vibe, or the Ina by Lelo. High quality, rechargeable, multi-function toys designed for maximum pleasure!

G-Spot Vibrators – A G-spot vibrator is any of the about toys, but with a curved shaft specifically designed to put pressure on the g-spot. By applying pressure to the g-spot, you increase sexual pleasure, as well as the likelihood and intensity of orgasm. For maximum g-spot stimulation, I suggest the Gigi, by Lelo. The Gigi is the ultimate mid-size G-spot massager with a flattened tip is designed specifically for that erogenous zone. It’s also rechargeable and whisper-quiet, with 5 adjustable stimulation modes.

Wands/Personal Massagers – These toys are essentially the same as a personal back massagers. They are wand shaped, high-powered, with a large vibrating heads. Wands are not used for penetration and are external toys only. These toys usually do not have multi-function patterns or pulses, but instead have ranges in speed from low to high. Wands are best for women who have difficulty achieving orgasm, or do not climax with traditional vibrating toys. They range in price and size – from mini to full length (about 10″ long). Wands usually have a plug-in cord, but do come in battery-powered and rechargeable styles. For someone interested in a wand, I suggest trying the Bodywand Mini, by Bodywand. Start small to see if this is the type of toy for you. If so, invest in something bigger and more powerful!

So, that’s Vibrators 101. I hope you learned something new! There’s also vibrating glass toys, vibrating anal toys, vibrating panties, vibrating cock-rings, vibrating tongue rings, and many, many more things that can make you go hmmm… But, I will save all that for another day, another blog, another 101 class!!

Me vs. the We-Vibe 3…

When I first saw the We-Vibe, I’ll admit… I was skeptical. I had friends who SWORE by it, said it changed their sex lives, that it was a miracle for couples. It’s a strange looking toy, not like your average phallic, rabbit-laden styles. It kind of resembles a boomerang. I’ve used a lot of sex toys in my life. I mean, I work for a sex shop. But, this toy confounded me. I held out and wouldn’t believe the hype… until We-Vibe gave me their latest model, the We-Vibe 3. And who can turn down a free sex toy? So, I charged up my We-Vibe 3 and accepted the challenge.

Later that day, my partner stared at me with a confused look on his face. “What is it again? And, you said we do what with it?” You see, the We-Vibe 3 is a couple’s toy. You insert one end in the vagina and the other end sits on your clitoris. The whole thing vibrates. Your partner slides in under the end that’s in your vagina. It results in a tighter fit and vibrating stimulation for both your vagina and clitoris, and also his penis. And, the vaginal end pushes up against your g-spot – a triple whammy for the clit, g-spot, and residing penis. Yay! Now, maybe you are starting to see where my skepticism came from… How does it fit in there? How does that create life-altering sex? Wouldn’t your average bullet do something similar?

Despite our reservations (and maybe a smidge of confusion), my partner and I experimented with the We-Vibe 3. I’ll admit, it was awkward at first. But, once things got going, it heightened everything. My g-spot was being pressed on like it was a magic button of love. My clitoris was so excited it didn’t even know what the hell to do. And, the vibrating against my partner’s penis… well he wasn’t complaining!! So, yeah, yeah, we were convinced.

But, we got to thinking… and you know how dirty minds are once they get to thinking. The We-Vibe 3 happens to have some nifty features. It’s completely submersible under water. It comes with a wireless remote control. And, it’s made of body-safe silicone that grips to your skin. When you take into consideration those three features, it opens up a world of possibilities. Boy did we think up some possibilities! Here’s the top ways we use our We-Vibe 3:

• Wrap it around his balls while giving him head – my partner loves extra attention to the boys. The gripping silicone gently clings to the balls, providing a light squeeze AND vibration. He loves this!
• Use it as a wireless panty vibe – He keeps the remote; I wear the We-Vibe 3 in my panties. With the click of a button, he can tease me anywhere, anytime. We’ve utilized it on many dinner dates… check please!
• Use it as anal toy – if you like a little backdoor stimulation, the We-Vibe 3 is an awesome choice. One end slips in your bottom, while the other end vibrates against your perineum. He’ll love that he can feel the vibration through your vaginal wall.
• Try it on his prostate – My partner likes anal stimulation, as well. The shape of the We-Vibe 3’s head puts the pressure on his prostate, making him act like a crazy man. So, he’ll use it while I am giving him head or during sex.
• Use it for double penetration – This is my favorite way to use the We-Vibe 3. I slip the bigger end inside my vagina and have the other end resting on my clit. Then, my partner and I lube up for anal penetration. The gripping silicone holds the toy in place really well.
• Use it as a solo toy – The We-Vibe 3 is powerful enough to use for masturbation. Why buy a rabbit when the We-Vibe 3 can do double duty as a couple’s toy AND a solo toy?!
• Update on 7/19/13 – This just in… We came up with yet another use! I used the bigger head inside, with the smaller head placed on my perineum. Then, my partner went down on me. It was amazing! Unlike traditional toys, the shape of the WeVibe makes it so the toy is not in the way during oral sex!

So, in the end, I am a believer. It has changed my sex-life! We keep it charged up and ready to go in case we’re ready to go! The We-Vibe 3 wins every time…