A sex is fun'sex toy party' is a usually female-only gathering [1] [2] where participants learn about and buy sex toys. [3] It is a type of party plan, similar to the MLM; Tupperware parties. [2]
The party may start with an icebreaker game, [4] then a sex toy representative, or 'facilitator', [5] displays and discusses the products. [6] Although the discussion is sexually explicit, euphemisms such as 'button' for clitoris are common. [7] The participants examine and talk about the products, with the option of purchasing them from the representative in a private room at the end of the party. [4] [8] Other merchandise such as bath salts, aromatherapy, and body paints are more commonly sold. [9] The representative receives commission based on the sales from the party. There are thousands of representatives of sex toy party companies in the United States.[ citation needed ]
Sex toy parties began in the 1970s, and became increasingly popular in the late 1980s and early 1990s. [10] The marketing practices of sex toy parties have encouraged alternative sexual practices. [11] The popularity of sex toy parties has suggested to be related to self-help and self-actualization. [7]
According to research studies conducted by scientists such as Debby Herbenick and Michael Reece of Indiana University, sex toy representatives are often asked for advice on sexual health, [5] and many have a background working in sex education, health, education, or sexuality. [12] Some romance companies do permit males at their sex toy parties.
A woman was arrested in Texas in December 2003 on obscenity charges for hosting a sex toy party for undercover narcotics officers, [13] [14] but the case was dismissed by the judge in July 2004. [15]