30 (PDFDrive)
30 (PDFDrive)
30 (PDFDrive)
associate publisher
dave manack
On The
lacy empkey
KRISTOFER KAY
With the release of their new Corsets by Baci line, combined with
ASSISTANT editor
their stunning Dreams line of costumes, it’s more clear than ever that BRITTANY BLACK
Baci Lingerie celebrates every woman.
Database Manager
EILEEN SAHIN-MURPHY
Features WEBmasters
KEVIN PENNINGTON
Jake Record
Office dog
boudreaux
10 16 18 business office
storerotica Magazine
2431 Estancia Blvd., Bldg. B
“Baby it’s Store profile: SE 2013 Award Clearwater, FL 33761
cold outside!” Cindie’s is winners for (727) 723-8827 FAX: (727) 712-8282
Special Focus male-owned, “soft goods”! www.storerotica.com
on legwear female-centric STOREROTICA Magazine (c) (TM) is published bimonthly by ED
Publications, Inc. in Clearwater, FL. Copyright 2013 by STOREROTICA
Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or
part, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted by any means with-
out prior written permission of publisher. All persons in STOREROTICA
Magazine are over the age of 18.
20 25
required by 18 U.S. Code 2257 (a) through (c) and the pertinent
Hot Products Hot Products: Regulations 28 C.F.R. Ch. 1, Part 75 with respect to this publication
and all materials associated with such records are maintained by Don
Special Edition Waitt, Publisher, at 2431 Estancia Blvd., Bldg. B, Clearwater, FL 33761
and are available for inspection/review by the Attorney General at all
reasonable times.
special thanks
stone sour, pearl jam
storErotica
A STOREROTICA Special Focus on legwear,
F CUS soft
holiday costumes & accessories
A
s a woman, the winter season tends to pres- female population. To the untrained eye, these prod-
ent a dilemma when it comes to maintaining ucts can appear as nothing more than just another
the balance between staying warm and feel- layer to don when the temperatures are below freezing.
ing sexy. On the one hand, we want nothing more than But to women, a sexy pair of thigh-highs or stockings
to bundle up in every layer of clothing in our closets can be the key to maintaining a sense of sex appeal in
and call it a day. On the other, we are still very much even the coldest of weather. In this issue, we spotlight
women, and are constantly on a quest to maintain our a variety of legwear that women will flock to your store
femininity no matter what the weather. And while you to stock up on come the cold weather.
can purchase coats and scarves and mittens at the And as for holiday costumes—what better way to
local Walmart, there is one department that tends to keep it steamy in the bedroom despite the declining
get shoved to the back burner in your average clothing temperatures outside? Whether your female clientele
store every winter: sexy winter apparel. are feeling naughty or nice this winter season, this
Just in time for those chilly winter months, our STOREROTICA Special Focus highlights the companies
“Baby It’s Cold Outside” Special Focus highlights the who offer sultry winter costumes—everything from
newest styles in legwear and holiday costumes that false eyelashes to pasties—that will complete any
combine both comfort and sexy style. Legwear, such woman’s Christmas list (and have her feeling as sexy as
as stockings, hosiery and thigh-highs, has become Jessica Simpson singing “Baby It’s Cold Outside”).
increasing popular in the winter months among the — Brittany Black
10/October 2013 StorErotica.com
Baci Lingerie Baci-lingerie.com
Fever Fever-collection.com
J. Valentine Jvalentinecatalog.com
14/October 2013 StorErotica.com
StorErotica.com October 2013/15
Store Profile by Brittany Black
H
aving crowned the best in the
pleasure product sector for 2013,
STOREROTICA Magazine, the lead-
ing national business-to-business trade publi-
cation for adult stores and lingerie boutiques
presented its awards honoring the soft goods
portion of this industry at this fall’s Interna-
tional Lingerie Show at the Rio Hotel and
Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. These awards
were presented during the ILS Fashion Show
on Monday, September 23rd.
STOREROTICA solicited the advice of retail-
ers, manufacturers, distributors and industry
experts who they believe represented the soft
goods industry with exemplary products and
services during the past year. Award catego-
ries included Lingerie Manufacturer of the
Year; Dancewear Manufacturer of the Year;
Sexy Shoe Manufacturer of the Year; Costume
Manufacturer of the Year, Accessory Manu-
facturer of the Year, Online Retailer of the
Year and (for the first time at ILS) Independent
Retailer of the Year.
This year’s soft product awards also in-
cluded STOREROTICA’s Special Focus Award,
honoring one Special Focus editorial seen
in the magazine over the past six issues. In
2013, the STOREROTICA Special Focus Award
honored eight companies who were featured
in the Special Focus on Male Intimates which
appeared in the August 2012 issue.
“As this year’s class of STOREROTICA
Awards winners has demonstrated, retailers
are maintaining prosperity with established
vendors while discovering new found success
with those contemporary brands that continue
to expand the possibilities of adult products,”
says STOREROTICA’s Kristofer Kay. “We con-
gratulate all the winners and look forward to
crowning next year’s recipients.” SE
Online Retailer
Sexy Shoe Manufacturer
of the Year
of the Year
Adam & Eve (adameve.com)
Pleaser Shoes
Retail Store of the Year
STOREROTICA Special Focus
Award: Male intimate wear Dick and Jane Romance Boutique,
Richmond Hill, Ontario
Gregg Homme
Hall of Fame
Phyllis Heppenstall of Peekay
associate publisher
dave manack
On The
lacy empkey
Kristofer Kay
A mere two years after its launch, Sportsheets’ Sex & Mischief line is Assistant Editor
already having demands for more products—and Sportsheets is delivering. Brittany Black
Database Manager
EILEEN SAHIN-MURPHY
WEBmasters
KEVIN PENNINGTON
Jake Record
20 44 52
Features
Office dog
boudreaux
Big things come in SE Interview: Are you game?
small packages! Scott Taylor Special Focus contributing writers ( oct )
Special Focus of New Extra on erotic Charles craton, Jamie Horne,
mercedes jones, gary krupkin
on stocking stuffers Sensations games
business office
64
(727) 723-8827 FAX: (727) 712-8282
www.storerotica.com
How—and why—to establish an STOREROTICA Magazine (c) (TM) is published bimonthly by ED
affiliate program for your store Publications, Inc. in Clearwater, FL. Copyright 2013 by STOREROTICA
Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or
part, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted by any means with-
68
out prior written permission of publisher. All persons in STOREROTICA
Magazine are over the age of 18.
MD Science Lab’s Je T’Aime is a
disclaimer
luxury line for the discerning woman STOREROTICA Magazine takes no responsibility for any errors or
opinions/facts expressed by contributing writers. The Records
70
required by 18 U.S. Code 2257 (a) through (c) and the pertinent
Regulations 28 C.F.R. Ch. 1, Part 75 with respect to this publication
Rapture Novelties takes a harder and all materials associated with such records are maintained by Don
Waitt, Publisher, at 2431 Estancia Blvd., Bldg. B, Clearwater, FL 33761
approach to adult novelties and are available for inspection/review by the Attorney General at all
reasonable times.
special thanks
And don’t miss! The Buzz (1), Hot Products (74), Do You Really Know Suki
stone sour, pearl jam
and Brian of OhMiBod? (82), Do You Really Know Kelly Szwed of Williams
Trading? (84), Warehouse (86)
12/October 2013 StorErotica.com
StorErotica.com October 2013/13
SEX & MISCHIEF
never looked
so good
by Brittany Black
W
hen it comes to the expansion of their Sex “It’s incredibly exciting and inspiring to be recognized
& Mischief line so soon after its launch, for our astounding business development alongside
Tom Stewart, CEO of Sportsheets, pleads some of the most popular and successful mainstream
innocent. “It wasn’t our fault,” laughs Tom. “We weren’t businesses in the country,” says Tom.
planning on expanding so soon, but our customers What makes Sportsheets’ Sex & Mischief line so
demanded it.” exceptional is its uncommon approach to BDSM-style
The Sex & Mischief line hit shelves six months before adult novelties. Rather than focusing specifically on the
the notorious “50 Shades of Grey” craze set in, so when hardcore bondage and fetish side of the market, Tom and
old and new BDSM fans found themselves ravenous for his sister Julie Stewart have followed mainstream trends
a 50-Shades-inspired experience, Sportsheets was armed and enticed even the most conservative consumers to
and ready. channel their inner “Christian” or “Anastasia.”
“The ‘50 Shades of Grey’ phase hit, and everyone who “We are trying to lift the whole idea of dark, black
had already purchased Sex & Mischief products said, ‘Oh bondage gear up and out of the dungeon and make it
my God, this is it’,” Tom recalls. “‘50 Shades’ proved that cool and hip and upscale for younger people,” says Tom.
we were right on track; bondage in the bedroom was “We are always looking at mainstream trends for
coming out of the closet and mainstreaming. We have inspiration,” adds Julie. “We focus on fashion, sexuality
been recognized by more mainstream avenues than we and what the consumer is looking for based on pop
ever thought possible.” culture. That has really helped us develop new products
Sportsheets’ recent induction into Inc. magazine’s and brands, and consumers have always responded well
2013 “Inc. 5000” list of the nation’s fastest-growing to them.”
private companies goes to show just how successful The Sex & Mischief line takes a modern approach to
Sportsheets has been in the mainstream world. This their original and still wildly popular Sportsheets bondage
recognition is unprecedented; for the first time, “Inc. and BDSM products by incorporating both function and
5000” honorees, such as Zappos, Pandora and Microsoft, fashion. “We first started experimenting with fashion with
are joined by an award-winning developer of soft our Sportsheets’ strap-ons,” Tom says. “We came out
restraints and sexual positioning products. with harnesses that were very fashionable, such as the
see-through, corset-style and leopard-print harnesses.
14/October 2013 StorErotica.com
When we fused function and fashion into our strap-ons, a few more BDSM products lined up to be released in
sales took off and they have never gone down. January 2014 with more to follow next summer. But Sex
“We took those experiences and applied them to the & Mischief will not be just another adult novelty brand
Sex & Mischief line with studs and bling, and we expect racing to keep up with the latest 50 Shades fad; the line
people to respond the same,” Tom adds. “A riding crop will remain a source for both upscale and fashionable
doesn’t have to look like it just came out of an equestrian BDSM gear, and its expansion depends more on their
shop. People want to be sexy, look sexy and feel sexy, so clientele’s requests than what book lands on the New
we added some fashion to the line. Why not?” York Times’ bestsellers list.
And as for the function side, Tom and Julie say that “If we add to the line, it is because the market is
expanding the capabilities of what consumers can do asking for that product, not just to simply add more
with the Sex & Mischief products is key. “We want to stuff,” says Tom. “We will be working on a lot of
make the products more compatible with each other so refinement and producing products with the same look
customers can constantly build onto their collection and and feel, and with the same high standards.”
use products with other products,” Tom explains. When One aspect of the “look” that Tom mentioned is the
asked if they had plans to expand the Sex & Mischief line classic black and white packaging that Sex & Mischief
to include “harder” products, Tom answered hesitantly. has endorsed. “I always wanted to go black and white,”
“We definitely have incentive to go into more hardcore says Tom. “When you flip through a 600-page Vogue
products,” says Tom. “We tailor to beginners and magazine, there are so many cool ads, but the ads that
intermediates with our products, but consumerism is about really stick out are those that are black and white. It’s
taking the next step after trying something. The harder timeless. I wanted a David Yurman jewelry, high-end look.
products are the types of things that fantasies are made of, It’s so striking and different.”
stuff that people want to talk about but not a lot of people They also plan to keep the colors of their Sex &
want to try. People want to make fantasies a reality, but the Mischief products very limited, sticking with the simple
reality is rarely as good as the fantasy you had.” yet sexy blacks, reds and purples that never go out of
Julie goes on to explain how Sportsheets aids in style. But for Tom and Julie, the most important part
bringing to life a fantasy without overdoing it. “Our of expanding the Sex & Mischief line, or any other
Sportsheets ‘Under the Bed Restraint System’ is still Sportsheets line, is to offer consumers high-quality yet
wildly popular,” she says. “It is great for beginners inexpensive products that ultimately result in one thing:
because it is such a versatile yet simple product. In order better sex.
for this type of fantasy play product to be liked, it needs “The sexual side of Sportsheets is not talked about a
to be safe for the woman. It’s all about creating a fantasy lot,” says Julie. “It’s not all about bondage and BDSM,
and giving up some control by giving the other person although a lot of things like that make for better sex. Our
permission to pleasure you. You can set yourself free by main focus, and the reason we create these products, is
being tied up.” to help make a consumer’s sex life better.” SE
Whether or not they choose to dabble in more
adventurous waters, Sportsheets does plan to continue For more information, please visit Sportsheets.com or
expanding their Sex & Mischief line. They already have call (800) 962-4606.
storErotica
F CUS hard
W
e learned at an early
age that, while the big
presents under the
tree drew our attention, there
were always some wonderful
little surprises hidden in our
holiday stockings. For those
shoppers who are looking to
fill those stockings up with
something a bit more ... well,
interesting ... this “Big Things
Come in Small Packages”
Special Focus highlights small
adult novelties that fit snugly
within a holiday stocking, yet
still pack a big punch. And in
addition to the “stocking stuffer”
products highlighted here, two
adult retailers—Gary Krupkin
and Mercedes Jones—provide
their tips on how stores can best
prepare for the holiday shopping
season.
Blush Novelties
Blushnovelties.com
Jopen
Jopen.com
Too Cute
The Too Cute mini wand may be Gratify
petite in size, but it packs a lot of This oral pleasure gel is the
power. The multispeed vibrations perfect stocking stuffer for him
are strong enough for serious clitoral or her. Gratify is a water-based
stimulation, as well as fun teasing for gel that is paraben-, phthalate-,
all erogenous zones. The soft silicone fragrance- and sugar-free and
head and flexible neck make pinpoint hypoallergenic.
stimulation simple and smooth. A matching USB cord is
included to easily recharge Too Cute.
Wet
Stayswetlonger.com
Inttimo and Wet Warming
Gel Lubricant
Baby, it’s cold outside… so turn up
the heat! During the cold winter months
when body heat matters most, Inttimo
aromatherapy massage and bath oil,
available in Forbidden Fruit, Romance,
Sensuality, Invigorate and Cucumber
Melon, and Wet Warming Gel Lubricant
will keep them warm all season long.
XR Brands
Xrbrands.com
Master Series “Chimera” Nipple
Clamps
Ring in the sensual season with these de-
vious nipple clamps, featuring little bells that
emit low-pitched ringing sounds with every
move. These tweezer-style nipple clamps
feature a sliding ring that allows for variety in
pressure and are ideal for both beginner and
expert clamp aficionados.
30/October 2013 StorErotica.com
StorErotica.com October 2013/31
continued from page 28
Frisky Red Bondage Tape
Your patrons can wrap their
lover up with a bow on top using
Frisky Red Bondage Tape—strong
and sturdy tape that sticks to
itself—but never to skin! Strap into
the gift that keeps on giving with
this easy-to-use, fun-to-try tape
that makes it easy and extra sexy
to experiment with restraint play
this holiday season.
Greygasms
“Sir’s Geisha Balls”
Your customers can offer
their lover a sweet surprise with
Greygasms Sir’s Geisha Balls,
stainless steel kegel exercise
balls nestled in a beautiful fitted
gift box and sealed with a deli-
cate bow. Available in small or
medium sizes, Sir’s Geisha Balls
give her a sophisticated way to
strengthen vaginal muscles with a sensual experi-
ence she can only feel with stainless steel.
Aneros.com
Bondage Bow
Eupho Syn Bondagebow.com
The Eupho Syn, a synthesis of the
popular prostate massager Eupho
The Bondage Bow is a gift
Classic, features increased comfort
bow handmade from a ribbon of
derived from the thick silicone coat-
100% natural rubber latex and se-
ing. Eupho Syn maintains the slim
cured with a stainless steel labret
design and small head of the Classic,
piercing. It is a luxury gift decora-
allowing for more targeted mas-
tion that, once received and un-
sages. Eupho Syn is ideal for men
wound, has a second purpose as
with stronger sphincter muscles who
a strong and stretchy restraint.
can control the massaging capabilities through varied
These restraints can be used to tie up wrists, ankles or
contractions. Even the most experienced users of pros-
waists. At just over 50” in length, the small bondage bow
tate massagers will discover new sensations by exploring
is long enough to tie someone in place. The large bow is
their body with Eupho Syn.
75” in length.
Eldorado Entrenue
Eldorado.net Entrenue.com
Kama Sutra Body Souffle Buxxxer
Petite Kokoro’s Buxxxer Col-
The Kama Sutra Body Souf- lection introduces a frol-
flé Petite encourages body icking trio that delivers
exploration through the fine art sweet waves of sensation
of sensual massage. Smooth while maintaining adorable
these delicately scented, expressions. The collection
lusciously flavored water-based creams over a lover’s is designed to make your
skin, enticing curious kisses to follow. These sinfully rich, customers smile in multiple
lightly whipped chocolate and sweet strawberry souffles ways with personable char-
are also excellent as a silky hand and body moisturizer. acters, bright colors and
The petite size makes it a perfect gift to slip into her friendly tendencies. The central button controls seven dif-
stocking. ferent modes and massage intensities.
Speaking clearly of products that buzz day and night We won’t commit crime by forgetting vibrating panties
You cannot go wrong with any We-Vibe delight. Cal Exotics’ the maker of this toy that’s just dandy.
They now make the III (3), the Touch and the Tango It’s panties you see, just without the fabric around it
With any of these, your strings will vibe like a banjo. Order Posh Butterfly Lover for fun that won’t quit.
The We-Vibe is sexy, it’s tactile and fun It’s really powerful, body-safe, with 10 functions, oh my
Maybe next year they’ll have something for your bum! It may not give her wings, but boy will she fly!
There’s so much for the girls, but can’t forget guys Of course it’s impossible to stuff a stocking with everything
So stock plenty of Fleshlights for a Christmas surprise. But before I go, one last toy that’s packing some zing.
These male-centric toys will entice your man, This one lovely item should be considered this year
He can use with you or alone, it’s sex in a can! The Fun Factory Stronic is better than wings and some beer.
So go stuff a Fleshlight deep into his stocking This toy thrusts in and thrusts out with quite different a feel
Jump under the covers and the bed will start rocking. A superhero you’ll be when you make your girl squeal.
For something that will hit with the friendly but thrifty, So that’s my quaint list, and it’s pretty good you’ll agree,
You might want to suggest Ova Vibes ‘cause they’re nifty. And I know we might differ if we spoke, you and me.
They come in an assortment of shapes, sizes and such This is not a commercial or endorsement for sure
With a price range that’s comforting to folks not making so much. Nobody paid me for including their product—I’m pure.
They’re made of silicone, and feature power, grace and design But these are some ideas about which you might like to think,
You can’t go wrong with Ova this Christmas, so pick up their line. So let’s toast to the holidays with a great Xmas drink. SE
Lots of folks like their loving with things often racy Gary Krupkin is an attorney in Dallas, Texas. He is in-house
So you should be thinking strapless, silky or lacy. counsel and director of business strategy for Condoms To Go
You don’t have to think hard—there’s Dreamgirl, you see and Sara’s Secret. In addition to his law degree, he holds a
With many an offering to fill their lingerie needs. Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, a Master’s Degree in
They have a wonderful line that’s full of glamour and glitz, Business Administration and a Master’s Degree in Sports Man-
Their panties, teddies and costumes simply can’t miss. agement. Mr. Krupkin is available for legal, management and
business strategy consultations. His e-mail address is gary@
condomstogousa.com.
40/October 2013 StorErotica.com
StorErotica.com October 2013/41
Retail Edge by Mercedes Jones
A quick-start checklist
to get you geared up
for the holidays
Retailer Mercedes Jones offers eight
specific tips for getting your store
prepared for the 2013 holiday season.
ith only a short time before the hustle and products that day! Always make sure your windows
bustle of the holidays, now is a great time reflect what you are currently focusing on inside—it’s the
to start planning for the craziness that lies worm on the end of your hook! The juicier the better.
ahead. Being proactive now can help ensure a smooth
transition from Halloween to Christmas and increase
4.) Get social
Consider website traffic and social media’s ability
productivity and sales during the adult retailer’s peak
to reach both existing and new customers over the
season.
holidays. If you can, host a stress-free day of shopping
To properly gear up for your store’s biggest holidays,
online with a flash sale.
consider adding these eight tips to your checklist:
Posting hot items and offering incentives (BOGO or
1.) Predict “gift with purchase”) always work nicely. Upload, refresh
Forecast your budget for inventory and store supplies and present all holiday items and promotions online to
by looking at last year’s trends and where your sales create awareness of your “holiday selection” and to make
were highest. Was it in lingerie? Toys? Lotions? Games? shopping easy. Be sure to advise web customers of ideal
Allot monies to the most profitable commodities to en- order dates to ensure delivery on time.
sure growth potential is at its max.
5.) Know your demo
2.) Order with care One thing I have noticed over the years is just how
Be sure to load up on best sellers and hottest prod- little is available to my Jewish clientele. Why is this such
ucts for the holidays. Christmas is not the season you an overlooked area? Manufacturers, hear me on this—
want to run out of stock. Make sure to contact your dis- there’s a pile of cash to be made here. With this being
tributors and see if they have anything exciting coming said, I have taken it upon myself to create items for this
in that you should pre-order to avoid disappointment... specific demographic need. Sometimes it’s as simple as
ahem, the We-Vibe 4, perhaps? Why risk losing sales to cellophane and a catchy title. I make three pre-made kits
your competitors at this time of year? for my Jewish clientele, just as I make kits for my non-
Jewish clients; I just re-name them and choose a differ-
3.) Move quickly ent color to kit them in.
Tear down Halloween decorations and advertisements
Instead of red and green, I use blues and whites and
and flip to Christmas. Don’t delay—getting your store(s)
silvers and present items in a creative and fun way. For
outfitted for the holidays early allows you to plant seeds
example, “Mrs. Clause Naughty Clutch for Her” becomes
with your customers so they remember you when they
are ready to shop. Better yet, perhaps they’ll purchase
42/October 2013 StorErotica.com
StorErotica.com October 2013/43
Not everybody has the same size wallet, so make
sure you have items for all price points. This will
cover the “Secret Santa” gifts that customers look
for at this time of year. It’s always good to have
items available that you can offer to your cheap and
cheerful seekers.
Scott
Taylor
Founder of
New Sensations From left to right:
Scott Taylor, Founder of NS, Belle Casten,
VP of Global Sales for NS and Lavi Yedid,
Director of Operations for NS Novelties
N
ew Sensations. Digital Sin. NS Novelties. Fan- STOREROTICA recently had the opportunity to speak
tasy Lingerie. What does Scott Taylor, the man with Taylor about all things New Sensations, his latest
behind these very successful brands, attribute endeavor into the world of lingerie and the future of the
his prosperity to? As Taylor explains, letting one dream brick and mortar aspect of the adult industry.
go allowed another dream—or, perhaps more accurately, STOREROTICA: When you started New Sensations,
a fantasy—to be fulfilled. what did you feel you could offer to the adult industry
“I moved to Los Angeles in early 1983 to pursue a that other current novelty and film companies couldn’t or
dream of becoming a rock star, and I had a series of jobs weren’t?
that allowed long-haired, wanna-be rock star drummers TAYLOR: I believe in myself and am creative by nature.
to work with the public,” recalls Taylor. “Ultimately, I got a I felt I could do what others were doing a little differ-
telemarketing job with Visual Entertainment Productions ently and, ideally, better. I knew what I wanted to see
selling adult video to stores and distributors. After a few and felt it was a gauge for what others may want to see,
years and working for a few companies, I started my own so I started New Sensations. I learned to shoot, direct,
distribution business. But I didn’t get really serious about edit, etc. It was a great creative outlet for me. I enjoy the
it until I stopped pursuing my music career. visual aspect of filmmaking and storytelling. I got to do
“I have been very blessed to have been so successful that over the course of more than 100 movies. It allowed
in this industry,” Taylor continues. “Circumstances just me to see my vision all the way through. To this day, I still
led me to where I am today … or maybe it was all those look at everything we produce.
porn mags I hid under my bed as a kid.” STOREROTICA: Twenty years after starting the com-
Despite the ups and downs of the adult film industry pany, how would you describe New Sensations’ identity
and NS Novelties’ tentative start, Taylor has remained at this point in time?
true to his passion for producing quality films and TAYLOR: New Sensations is high quality in all as-
products. New Sensations has experienced success on pects. It’s like asking how a father feels about his child.
all platforms, and Taylor’s most recent venture, Fantasy NS is exactly what I want it to be with regards to repu-
Lingerie, is headed in the same direction with its highly tation and being positioned to continue to lead in its
acclaimed Curve line. But even amidst the accomplish- genre. I am very proud of my child.
ments his companies have piled up, Taylor refuses to let STOREROTICA: As one of the more high-end adult film
it go to his head, contributing his successes to his team companies, would you say that film output is your primary
as much as he does to his own efforts. source of branding?
“My team is my strength and has been in each and TAYLOR: It is our only source of branding. We don’t
every company I have started,” says Taylor. “I am not a advertise as much as some companies. I choose to let
one-man show anymore, and I am lucky to have such the movies speak for themselves. I always want to get
talented people throughout my companies. I seem to hire better; therefore, I never want to be complacent. I don’t
well, and it is them that truly deserve the credit. Although think you can be in this industry anymore. You must
I am the captain, and very hands on, it’s nothing without always seek to improve and try new things.
the crew.”
46/October 2013 StorErotica.com
The amount of floor space dedicated to DVD
should offer an exceptionally high rate of
return, but it’s a matter of what you put
there. If a customer can trust that your
selection is going to be strong, then you
have narrowed down the decision making for
them. Not everyone is an adult video
connoisseur, so you must know your
customer and offer what they want.
STOREROTICA: Speaking of film output, how do you and strive to always be the best at what they do. I can’t
feel about the constant decline in DVD sales? What would ask for more. It amuses me that sex and love were such
you tell a store owner that is wary about offering DVDs in a novel concept. I didn’t create it, I just recognized it was
his or her store? lacking in our industry. The idea is a great start, but it is
TAYLOR: For the moment, it seems like you can still the script, the acting and the directing that sets it apart
make good money with the right product. In the past, from others.
you could release anything and it was only a matter of STOREROTICA: Tell us a little bit about NS Novelties.
how much money would it make. Now it’s not that easy, What did you learn from the initial launching of NS Novel-
so it’s even more important to watch consumer trends ties that has helped you transform it into the successful
and leads when possible. novelty company it is today?
I would tell the store owner that the profit margins TAYLOR: Hire well. The ideas I had initially were my
are still excellent. The amount of floor space dedicated naïve thoughts. I loved the Bzzz Buddies, and know many
to DVD should offer an exceptionally high rate of return, people who do, but not enough to sustain a company. I
but it’s a matter of what you put there. If a customer brought in a professional with years of experience in the
can trust that your selection is going to be strong, then novelty market, and it has made all the difference.
you have narrowed down the decision making for them. STOREROTICA: What has worked and what hasn’t in
Not everyone is an adult video connoisseur, so you must the novelty market for you?
know your customer and offer what they want. TAYLOR: The only thing that worked out in the initial
Track sales and try new things with low risk, or at least launch was our Shane Diesel and Ashlynn Brooke prod-
a risk relative to the reward. Do your homework, and by ucts. I would be hard pressed to say what hasn’t worked
all means, do not give up on video. Some of our highest- since then. It’s all a matter of how long it has worked. We
selling products ever have been released within the last have plans to discontinue only a few items at this time
year. This is far from over. because the line as a whole is performing so well. We
STOREROTICA: How have you managed to stay afloat are developing new concepts all the time, so our line
in the adult DVD industry despite the decline in that par- continues to slowly grow.
ticular market? Unlike the films, the toys take time to develop so the
TAYLOR: By evolving. If you look at our lines, you will process is a little more involved. Some of our product
notice how we remain flexible to trends—I try to start development has taken as long as 18 months or lon-
them whenever possible. In addition to the Romance Se- ger. But our due diligence is paying off. Our Infinit vibe is
ries, we have the Erotic Stories Collection, which is more garnering a lot of attention. As a matter of fact, we were
sexual, The Couples Series, which deals with real life sold out prior to launch, because our preorders were so
issues, The Swinger Series and the soon to be released strong.
Tabu Tales Series, which deals with even edgier sexual STOREROTICA: Tell us about the new Infinit product.
themes. What was the creative inspiration behind it?
STOREROTICA: You seem to have a firm grasp in the TAYLOR: The product itself is very innovative. The
couples’ market. What do you attribute your success to in Infinit is our one item that has been in development for
that area? 18 months. We wanted to create something that was
TAYLOR: A very focused idea of what [the couples’ both unique and versatile. The Infinit represents a tireless
market] needed to be, and an amazingly talented staff commitment to introducing something special to the
that brings it together. Our team can do just about any- market. It can do so many things that no other prod-
thing because they care greatly about the final product
StorErotica.com October 2013/47
continued from page 45 STOREROTICA: With online adult novelty sales increas-
uct can. It has fully articulated silicon arms and a solid ing every quarter, how do you think that the adult novelty
aluminum base. Each arm is independently controlled industry will prevent oversaturation and the negative
and each one contains a strong, seven-function motor. effects of Internet retail in the marketplace that the adult
It can be made into nearly any shape and reach almost film industry has experienced?
any spot, while providing a very individualized speed. We TAYLOR: Oversaturation is not a grave concern [for
need to bring high-profile items to the market if we want novelties]. You can learn very quickly how to lose money
to be recognized as a serious player. This is just one of by not making the right product, because it simply won’t
many we have in store. sell. We need to be very aware that it is not a game of
STOREROTICA: How does NS Novelties stand out on a “make it and they will cum.” There is so much out there
retailer’s shelf compared to other novelty products in the and has been for so many years, it requires that we make
market? things better in whatever way possible.
TAYLOR: We build our customer base through a con- The Internet can be a great selling/marketing tool.
stant commitment to quality. Our presentation is strong, That is, until you run headlong into the people who sell
but there is only so much we can do with our packaging. very cheap on Amazon, Ebay and others of the like, and
The difference is ideally in the products them- harm the sales of brick and mortar stores. We’re doing
selves. We have been very aggressive in offering testers what we can to prevent this. It seems that some obscure
for all products. We believe getting the products into the businesses will buy the product from a distributor and
hands of consumers will give us the feedback we need mark it up very little because they have no overhead. It
to continually improve, since we’re still very new to the really hurts the manufacturers as well as the retailers. I
shelves. The “majors” dominate the shelf space. We wish there was a rule book that everyone had to follow,
need to prove our worth in all aspects, most importantly but until then, we’ll do our best to support our customers
sales, in order to gain that space. We believe in each and and their businesses against this.
every product enough to offer one year warranties. STOREROTICA: In addition to your film company and
STOREROTICA: How has creating a film company and novelty company, you also recently purchased a lingerie
a novelty company been similar? How has it been differ- company as well. What was your initial attraction to buy-
ent? ing Fantasy Lingerie?
TAYLOR: I’ve spent over 20 years producing, directing TAYLOR: I wasn’t certain of DVD’s future, since there
and editing in the adult film market, but I’m only about are so many pirates out there. I felt I should have a back-
20 months into novelties. Some elements are similar, but up plan. That’s why I started NS Novelties and bought
overall it’s very different, and certainly not for the faint of Fantasy Lingerie.
heart. The lingerie business is different, but once you get
The creative design, manufacturing and marketing pro- to know it the basic principles are the same. Know your
cesses are a big change for us. What is similar, however, customer, and provide value beyond what is expected.
is that many of the accounts we sell video to also buy Keep trying new things. Listen and evolve. We are all
novelties. Although certain business principles apply to consumers. Treat your customer how you would like to
both, it’s a whole new world. be treated—that applies across the board.
Game Therapy:
Entrenue The hidden benefits
Entrenue.com of erotic games for couples
Kinky Sex Games by Cosmopolitan Magazine
by Brian Pellham of Kheper Games
Kinky Sex Games
K
is full of erotic adven-
heper Games Inc has a hidden agenda
tures that will take
when it comes to the games they
them both to new
create. Well-written games can be an
levels of ecstasy. Kinky
incredibly useful tool in any relationship. If your
Sex Games features
customers are looking to bring variety into their
a series of carnal
relationship, improve and control how their
challenges and erotic
lover is touching them or simply looking to be
adventures that dare
the life of the party, an erotic game can get
couples to role play
them there.
and explore the erotic
Games don’t have to be repetitive dares or
world outside of their
foreplay actions and should not be thought of
comfort zones. With
as that simple. Many games can serve as ther-
categories including
apy tools to improve relationships. For exam-
DIY Sex Toys, Master/
ple, if someone is losing patience while trying
Servant and Sex Ninja,
to spice up their relationship, our new “We’ve
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Never” game will allow them to comfortably
ers looking to expand their sex game inventory.
decide what new sexual adventures they can
try together. The rules are simple; if the couple
Kheper Games
wishes to do the action on the game card in
the future, they decide together and place the
card in a “But We Will” envelope.
Khepergames.com Often individuals in a relationship have
had negative sexual experiences in the past.
The bedroom can be a difficult place to open
up and share that a lover may be reminding
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of coyly avoiding certain sexual situations,
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It’s a fun way for your patrons to get exactly
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sive way.
The Kheper party games and ladies’ night
games also have hidden agendas. If your cus-
tomers want to be the life of the party by ask-
ing the most outrageous questions, introduce
We’ve Never... but we will! them to the What the F*ck game! Or perhaps
Hours and weeks of adult fun! A couple reads the they are hoping to hookup single friends or flirt
“We’ve Never” cards to each other and celebrates what with other couples, then the Let’s Fool Around
they have done together. If they have not done the game will accomplish their goal.
sexual activity on a card, but decide that they would Our line of Ladies’ Night games allowa
want to do it in the future, they save the card and toast guests to get to know each other better—
the adventure. which, of course, can be much more interest-
ing than having to diaper potatoes at a baby
Drink or Dare Dice shower or create toilet paper veils at wedding
Find out who wants to flirt showers and bachelorette parties.
and who would rather drink Now your customers can get what they
to avoid an uncomfortable en- want out of their relationships with the right
counter in Drink or Dare Dice. games without putting off their lover or friends.
One die is a drink assignment And as everyone knows, games are fun! SE
and the other two dice com-
Retail Markups
vs.
Profit Margins:
Do you know the
difference?
Store owner and retail expert Charles Craton examines the differences between “margin” and “markup,”
and suggests that understanding these differences is critical to your store’s financial success.
M
any years ago, when I started my first com- psychological trick” and make the price $4.99. I think we
pany, I learned that I was able to sustain a all “get” that calculation. But, what was the profit margin
profitable, ongoing business at a 40% profit on that item, and why does it matter that we know?
margin. But back then, I was a “business-to-business” So, with credit to Wikipedia, here are the definitions of
marketing professional and we didn’t operate on retail both:
markups. Our focus, instead, was on profit margins. And Margin: The percentage margin is the percentage of
while I’m not a CPA or a financial guru, I figured out very the final selling price that is profit.
quickly that there is a big difference. Wrestling with mark- Markup: A markup is what percentage of the cost
ups and margins when transitioning from a business-to- price you add on to get the selling price.
business industry to retail took me some time to learn. These are very different distinctions between profit
The term “profit margins” is commonly used in commer- margins and markups. And when you look at your P&L for
cial business enterprises, but the term “markups” is far your store(s) every month, guess what—you are look-
more often associated with retail businesses. They are ing at your profit margins, not your markups. Therefore,
also commonly misused and misunderstood. profit margins are far more important than markups. In
Half the art of selling is the art of pricing. And in the a retailer’s environment, as an owner it is better to work
adult market, as in most retail businesses, I see markups with margins. This means you can know what percent-
vary from one extreme to the other, from as high as 4-5 age of our total income is profit. But, I do understand that
times and more to as low as 1.5. Typically, retail markups markups are what most of us are comfortable with. It’s
involve a good mixture of intuition, experience, overhead an easy calculation and easy to teach your employees.
and bottom line; meaning, what price will the market But markup is based on cost and margin is based on rev-
bear? enue. And at the end of the day, what’s more important
In order to come to some standard of doing business to you? The answer should be revenue. But, you have to
efficiently, you need to be confident that your pricing strike a balance.
model is workable and profitable. Not only that, you With margins, a 50% margin means that half the sell-
must be able to navigate through the forest of buying ing price is profit. In markups, that is a 100% markup
resources; these include distributors, varying distributor (you have added 100% of the cost price to make the sell-
discounts, manufacturers who sell direct, list prices and ing price). With margins, a 100% margin is only possible
acceptable margins. Am I buying on terms or prepaying if the cost price is zero.
up front, and does that matter when I decide how much To understand why margins are higher, imagine an
to sell something for? What’s my cost of money? What’s item that costs $10. If you sell it with a margin of 50%,
my cost of doing business? that means 50% of the selling price should be profit. So,
Two terms used when discussing prices are mark- if you sell that item for $20, it’s a 50% margin but 100%
up and margin. They are different ways of calculating markup. So, a 50% margin is higher than a 50% markup.
profit, and the difference can be confusing. As a retailer, Or to put it another way, a 100% markup is only a 50%
we tend to focus on markups. If we buy from a supplier margin. Got it? Yes, I know, it’s confusing. But it’s vital
at $2 and we mark it up 2 ½ times, that’s an easy calcula- that any business owner understands the distinction and
tion: 2 x 2.5 = $5.00. Then we factor in the old “retail
62/October 2013 StorErotica.com
StorErotica.com October 2013/63
continued from page 60
the reason why margins are the lifeblood of your
profitability, not markups.
Some adult distributors and manufacturers quote
you “list prices” less a discount. When this happens,
be very careful. For example, if a supplier gives you
a “list price” of $10 and a 50% discount, your cost is
$5.00. Don’t pay any attention to “list prices.” They are
what the manufacturer may want you to sell it for, but
it’s very subjective. And if it’s priced at an insufficient
margin for your business, increase the price to what it
needs to be. Either that, or reduce your overhead. I’m
reminded of a humorous quote: “How do I lose money
on every transaction? Volume.” Make sure you have
your margins where they need to be, and price your
products accordingly. “Volume is for vanity, profits are
for sanity.” Who cares how much volume of business
you do if you can’t make any profits on those sales!
Another hidden cost to factor into your profit
margins is freight. Freight is a cost of doing business
and you probably pay freight on 99% of all the ship-
ments you receive. So, the cost of shipment matters,
and needs to be reflected into your profit margins.
You either “eat” the freight as a cost of doing busi-
ness and your margins account for it, or you can add
the freight back into the cost of goods by amortizing
the freight cost over the totality of your order, raise
your costs by that much and then add your markups.
Either way works, but don’t forget if you buy 10 wid-
gets for $1 each and it cost you $10 in shipping, then
your real cost is $2 each, not $1 each. Freight can
have a considerable impact.
Finally, how should you use margin and markup to
become more profitable? At the end of the day, busi-
ness owners use markups to calculate the sales price
for individual goods, while accountants and analysts
use gross profit margins to view the overall profitabil-
ity of a business. But if you’re the owner, don’t defer
that vital piece of knowledge to your CPA or advisor.
You need to know it, learn it, and be always aware.
Knowing your store’s particular overhead and cost
of doing business is vital to a successful, sustained
business, adult or otherwise. Know your minimal
profit margins to be successful. If it’s confusing to
you, work with your CPA or other financial advisors
to learn the difference and apply that knowledge
to your business. Compare your business to other
businesses in your area to remain competitive. Track
any changes in your actual gross profit over time and
that will help you to price your products to maximize
gross profit and net income. SE
Charles Craton is the owner/op-
erator of Entice Couples Boutique
in Rome, GA, and Sexy Suz Couples
Boutique in Athens, GA. Prior to
entering adult retail in 2006, Charles
spent 25 years in sales promotion
and marketing as President & CEO of
Craton Promotions in Atlanta, GA. He
can be reached at charles@cratonon-
line.com.
64/October 2013 StorErotica.com
StorErotica.com October 2013/65
Retail Edge by Jamie Horne
How—and why—
to establish an
affiliate program
for your store
In the third part of his article series designed to help stores establish a successful
online presence, web expert Jamie Horne presents questions that are designed to
help your store enter into the world of e-commerce with its eyes open.
C
ongratulations! You’ve made the commitment Full disclosure: As the director of Adult Drop Ship-
to get your business online. As discussed in per, I operate both affiliate and non-affiliate e-commerce
previous installments of this series, you have programs serving hundreds of businesses nationwide.
many options and details to consider. Whether you’re While the program characteristics I describe below are a
planning to represent your business with a simple display virtual checklist of features our affiliate program offers, I
site or to sell products online, understanding the services present them as topics I hope you will think about while
available to you is most definitely the first step. The goal selecting a provider—even if it’s not us!
of my articles is to help you understand these options
and know what questions to ask the providers who will Fulfillment, website choice and marketing
help you go live.
Selecting an affiliate provider should involve several
This time around, I’ll be discussing one of the most
considerations. First up is fulfillment; that is, the service
common methods for selling products online: affiliate
that feeds your website and ships your orders. Re-
programs. Often referred to as a “white label” solution,
searching this should involve several questions. What
an affiliate program is a drop-ship model that allows you
range of products does the provider offer? Where do
to sell goods that are stocked and fulfilled by a central
the products ship from? What
provider who then pays you
kind of support is available to
a set commission for every
sale. This option is typical- All worthy affiliate programs will offer you (the business owner) and to
a turnkey e-commerce solution of the consumer (your customer)?
ly a low or no-cost solution,
Clearly, without reliable fulfill-
and offers the great ben- some sort. Review the provider’s ment, customer satisfaction is an
efit of getting you online
sample sites from two points of uphill battle.
quickly, easily and often
with no commitment. The view—as a business owner and as a Now, on to the main attraction:
the website itself. All worthy
provider handles everything consumer. You’ll find you will look for
affiliate programs will offer a
from hosting to processing different things depending on which turnkey e-commerce solution of
transactions, allowing you
to focus solely on the task
side of the counter you stand on. some sort. Review the provider’s
sample sites from two points of
of driving traffic.
view; that is, as a business owner
Affiliate programs are
and as a consumer. You’ll find you will look for different
fantastic choices for many adult businesses that prefer to
things depending on which side of the counter you stand
let a larger organization take care of all the details. Even
on. As a business owner, you’ll want to see the ability to
though earning commission can mean fewer dollars per
offer coupon codes, select featured items and promo-
sale, the smaller profit is offset by the virtual elimination
tions, options for customizing the brands and products
of operating costs. Larger businesses may opt for non-
that are offered, etc. As a consumer, you’ll be looking
affiliate models which allow them to control all aspects
for visual appeal, ease of use, product selection, pricing
of the transaction, and I plan to discuss that operation in
and features that you’ve grown accustomed to seeing on
my next article.
mainstream websites.
66/October 2013 StorErotica.com
StorErotica.com October 2013/67
continued from page 64
If a provider’s system allows for website customization,
they should be able to show you sample sites that exemplify
a range of designs. Some systems may only offer color and
logo options, while some will allow you (or a designer) access
to the coding to completely alter the site’s look and feel. It At the foundation
may be crucial for you to match existing branding or website
look and feel; in that case, can the provider’s system accom-
modate your needs?
of any business is,
Once you’ve narrowed down your selection of providers,
ask for tours of their websites’ administration panels. Review of course, money.
the available controls, reports and options that allow you to
freely manipulate the site’s features. Ask about the ability to
use your own URL (web address) vs. a “sub domain” address
While the Internet
that contains the provider’s name. For example, yourstore-
name.providername.com. Ask about the presence (or lack may not be the
thereof) of the provider’s name, logo or branding. Consider
your customer’s reaction to seeing unfamiliar branding or
web addresses. gold mine it once
As noted, affiliate programs leave one main task up to
you: marketing. But, some providers’ systems can be more was, there are
helpful than others simply in the way they are designed. Ask
your provider about search engine optimization. Are there
options built in that allow you to control and edit page and certainly sites that
product information which will make your site more attractive
to search engines? Will you have the ability to incorporate
social media into the site? When used to their full potential,
are successfully
all these details can help you attract buyers.
Some providers are able to offer additional services and providing their
solutions. Can they help you design your site? Can they help
you with editing information to aid in search engine optimiza-
tion? Do they offer additional white label solutions such as
owners with healthy
cam sites or video on demand? Can they help with integra-
tion and cohesive branding? These services may seem extra- profits. Affiliate
neous to the new website owner, but once you are operation-
al, these are things that can help you increase sales.
At the foundation of any business is, of course, money.
providers have
While the Internet may not be the gold mine it once was,
there are certainly sites that are successfully providing their varying models and
owners with healthy profits. Affiliate providers have vary-
ing models and payout options. To make sure you select a
service that best suits you, ask questions. Is the commission
payout options.
rate fixed or variable? Can I adjust retail pricing on my web-
site to earn more money or be more competitive? How does To make sure you
the actual payout work?
Once again, these questions are designed to help you
enter into the world of e-commerce with your eyes open. As select a service that
noted above, the topics discussed here are services that the
Adult Drop Shipper platforms offer, and I welcome your ques- best suits you, ask
tions as you shop the market for affiliate providers. SE
The Je T’Aime line is paraben, glycerin and sugar free, and all
products come in an airless container. M.D. Science Lab based the
W
hat do you picture when you think of stainless steel and state-of-the-art
machinery? Probably not fetish adult novelties—but that’s exactly what the
people at Pulse Distribution imagined when they decided to expand their
DVD distribution company. Pulse Distribution, one of the largest distributors of DVDs in
the U.S. representing a vast array of some of the most popular adult video studios, felt
it only natural to expand into the adult novelty and apparel market. Utilizing their active
presence within brick and mortar facilities, a seasoned sales staff and an administrative
structure geared towards the adult industry, Rapture Novelties was born.
“Pulse has entered the novelty business to parlay and expand its distribution “Our present product
infrastructure and experience into the novelty/toy business market within the adult expansion plans include
industry,” says Janet Tamborelli, the Vice President of Sales at Rapture Novelties.
“Pulse Distribution initially developed a partnership with a manufacturing entity that fetish apparel designs
had the capability to produce high-quality stainless steel products with state-of-the- that are not ‘hard’ fetish
art machinery that could offer a price advantage over existing industry products. This styles and will grey the
manufacturing capability was coupled with a design skill that brings unique stainless
steel designs into the market at a substantial price advantage.” definition of fetish ...
Rapture chose to focus primarily on the harder side of adult novelties due to the We plan to launch this
market’s broadening consumer base, and their partnership associations allowed them
product group with
access to the production of leather products, apparel and fetish corporal novelties. As
for the inspiration for the products themselves, Rapture beckoned the professionals— eight unique styles in
that is, the users. a variety of sizes in the
“The products and product lines were developed from a knowledge base about the
fetish world,” explains Tamborelli. “We understand how these products are used and
fall of 2013.”
how to offer products that are functional and affordable. The designs, both existing — Janet Tamborelli
and new, are tested and proven by people experienced in their use and attributes.”
Rapture also paid close attention to price and quality trends, realizing that the
bondage and fetish market was short on higher quality product at an affordable price.
“The mission or approach we are undertaking is to offer a higher quality product
that can be afforded by a larger customer base than is currently served by competi-
tors,” Tamborelli says. “Current consumers in this market have a product sophistica-
tion that will recognize a quality product coupled with price sensitivity.
“New consumer entrants will gravitate towards a more sophisticated product as
their tastes and experience mature,” Tamborelli continues. “Further, our approach is to
offer our products with a package design with a retail merchandising advantage and
exhibits an image of quality and sophistication.”
Despite their success in the harder market of adult novelties, Tamborelli explains
Rapture’s irresolute venture into the softer side of things.
“When we launched Rapture Novelties, we thought that a balance of fetish prod-
ucts and more traditional adult novelties was a good mix and market approach,”
recalls Tamborelli. “The ABC Feeling product line of high tech vibrators were priced
reasonably well against competitive offerings. However, the market segment has
proven to be so saturated with product of all price and quality levels, that prices were
being depressed due to competitive weight.”
Even though they don’t plan to continue production in the category of vibrators
and other insertable toys, Rapture does have big plans for future product expansion,
including some softer fetish apparel designs.
“Our present product expansion plans include fetish apparel designs that are not
‘hard’ fetish styles and will grey the definition of fetish to one that may be considered
just risqué in the non-adult market,” says Tamborelli. “We plan to launch this product
group with eight unique styles in a variety of sizes in the fall of 2013.” SE
For more information, please visit Rapturenovelties.com or call (818) 435-1604.
3.
Suki: I can curl my tongue. Does that count?
B
ig things—and ideas—really do come in small packages.
When asked how OhMiBod got its start, Suki Dunham,
who co-founded the company alongside her husband,
Brian, says that it all started with a Christmas stocking.
4. Music is a family affair (except, of course, when
vibrators are involved).
Brian: I’m not sure that I can pick out any one
genre of music that I prefer, but these days my
“We started OhMiBod after Brian gave me my first vibrator (at music listening is highly dependent on what my
the age of 35) as a stocking stuffer for Christmas—accompanied kids are streaming on their Pandora accounts.
by an iPod,” recalls Suki. “I started using my new vibe while lis- Suki: I’ve always been a R&B, hip-hop and rap
tening to music. The music helped me escape the daily routine girl. However, I do love all different genres of
of running a household with two small children, and I remember music. This summer I took each of my kids to
getting lost in my music, turned on by the sensations of the their first concerts. I took my 15-year-old son to
vibrator. Mentally, it was easier to get in the ‘mood’ listening to see Mac Miller, and I took my daughter, who is
12, to her first “boy band” concert, Emblem 3.
5.
my favorite sexy music—and that was when I called Brian and
said that we would have to put my two all-time favorite stocking
stuffers together.” Where do they see themselves in five years?
After a few years of hashing out the details over dinner, they Brian: Immersed in the design, manufacturing
attended a tradeshow to check out the industry with their first and sale of high tech pleasure gadgets!
prototype in hand. And as they say, the rest is history. Suki: Nearly an empty nester with a whole lot
SE recently had the opportunity to talk with Suki and Brian of time on my hands that I probably won’t know
about not only the nine-to-five aspects of running OhMiBod, but what to do with. On second thought … SE
also about the dynamic duo outside of their day jobs. Our con-
clusion? Opposites really do attract—and make for the coolest For more information, please visit Ohmibod.com.
pleasure gadgets. - Brittany Black
2.
Another favorite in the industry? The sense of family.
“As a whole, the industry has such a sense of family
with one another. It’s a small industry and a small
group of people, and everyone is friends with every-
one. At the end of the day, we’re family.”
W
hen Kelly Szwed decided she needed a to cry or throw up at the end of every class, but it’s
career change five years ago, she eventually a good thing.”
stumbled upon an advertisement on Monster
She loves all things paranormal.
6.
for a marketing coordinator position. “I saw the ad and
was so excited to see a marketing position available,” “I love any TV show that involves ghost hunting.
recalls Szwed. “And then I saw in small letters some- I find the paranormal fascinating. A lot of people
thing about ‘adult nature.’ I said ‘hmm’ to myself for a think the ‘Long Island Medium’ is kind of ridiculous,
minute, and then applied.” but I think she might be legit—even if she is crazy.”
That “hmm” led her to a position as the marketing
and promotions coordinator for Williams Trading Co., a Once she figured out what it was, she loved “50 Shades
7.
well known and respected distributor of adult novelties of Grey.”
(i.e. you know, that whole “adult nature” thing). Upon “A friend sent me a text asking if I had read ‘50
her hiring, Szwed brought her now trademark outgoing, Shades.’ I was like, ‘Isn’t that a self help book?’ But
bubbly personality to Williams Trading Co., where she I ended up reading the entire trilogy. It really held
thoroughly enjoys the ability to connect with industry my attention!”
vendors, store owners, buyers and other industry pros.
In fact, that one-on-one contact is her favorite aspect
But she doesn’t love everything.
8.
of the job.
“I think I most enjoy working with the vendors, the
“My biggest phobia is bugs. I am not a fan of the
manufacturers that I work with directly,” says Szwed. outdoors at all. I don’t like being dirty, I don’t like
“They are the nicest, warmest people. I have made so nature, I don’t like bugs. I’m afraid of heights, and
many wonderful friends and relationships.” I’m a little bit claustrophobic, so the whole elevator
But Szwed also has a few other favorites, both in- thing doesn’t work too well for me. I can’t sit in the
side and outside the industry, that she recently shared back seat or I’ll get car sick. I don’t like dirt, nature,
with STOREROTICA Magazine. — Brittany Black snakes or spiders. And forget about the beach—my
milky white skin just repels the sun. But I swear, I’m
not high maintenance!”
86/October 2013 StorErotica.com
StorErotica.com October 2013/87
The Warehouse by Brittany Black
Eldorado releases 2013 contact with customers using newsletters, flyers and
trade show events to spread the word. We look forward
Costume catalog to working together to help make the Sportsheets brand
a household name in more and more countries around
Eldorado, an award-winning the world!”
distributor of pleasure products, The 30-year European wholesaler will also help man-
party supplies and lingerie, age ongoing supply and demand for these modern, so-
has released its 2013 Costume phisticated and affordable bondage-inspired accessories
catalog featuring the latest with timely service, fast delivery and up-to-date inventory.
costumes, sexy lingerie and Orion will showcase the Sex & Mischief collection
Halloween accessories to help at the upcoming eroFame trade show October 9-11 in
prepare retailers for this festive Hanover, Germany.
holiday. For more information, please visit Sportsheets.com.
“Halloween is always a
strong holiday for our custom-
ers and we intend to help them
be fully prepared for a successful season with our new Entrenue selected to bring
Costume catalog,” says Larry Garland, the CEO and next-generation Magic Wand
Founder of Eldorado. “The Eldorado team has done a
great job with this latest release.”
massager to adult retailers
The 2013 Costume catalog from Eldorado features
Entrenue has been specially selected
items from Elegant Moments, Pastease, Forum Novel-
to bring the latest generation of the Magic
ties, Rene Rofe, Ellie Shoes, Eye Candy, Xotic Eyes,
Wand massager to adult retailers nation-
Brand X, Smokin’ Glassware and more.
wide, a prestigious honor that the boutique
For more information, please visit Eldorado.net.
distributor is proud to announce. Featuring
the same telltale design but with amped-
up power and new modern packaging, the
Sportsheets maintains fully restored Magic Wand is slated to be
European expansion with this season’s market leader and a pleasure
product that female shoppers will ask for by
Orion distribution deal name.
Often knocked off—but never duplicat-
Sportsheets is ed—the Magic Wand is a fixture in women’s
maintaining momen- bedrooms across the country and this latest
tum with its European incarnation features subtle updates to give
brand expansion fol- the classic go-to device even more power.
lowing the inking of German distributor Orion to carry the The new Magic Wand features sleek pack-
Sex & Mischief brand. This international distribution deal aging and an updated look while maintaining
is Sportsheets’ latest endeavor to position its popular the same dependable penetrating vibration that women
S&M and soft bondage accessories to be number one in around the world have relied on for more than 30 years.
the European retail market. Entrenue also has available a wide selection of easy-
Sportsheets has equipped Orion with top-sellers from to-use attachments that turn the Magic Wand into a
the award-winning Sex & Mischief collection and, to- versatile penetrating, stimulating and massaging sex toy.
gether with Orion, will launch a three-month ad campaign Recommended by leading sex therapists, sex educators
featuring Sex & Mischief worldwide. and best friends for decades, the Magic Wand is one
“We’re so excited to be working with Orion, one of the most popular and famous sex toys on the market
of the most respected and reliable adult wholesalers with millions sold nationwide. Pricing of the revamped
in Europe,” Sportsheets President Julie Stewart says. Magic Wand remains unchanged.
“The Orion team has one of the most efficient purchas- For more information, please visit Entrenue.com.
ing departments in the industry and keeps in constant
88/October 2013 StorErotica.com
StorErotica.com October 2013/89
continued from page 86
Known for being afforable luxury, Maia Toys boasts high-end packag-
ing, which can either be hung on a wall or positioned on a table or counter,
and is emblazoned with high gloss images. Also important to note is the
subliminal color therapy being utilized, which greatly influences purchasing
decisions. Vibrant colors of purple, pink, blue and yellow all evoke different
emotions such as success, cheer, security and belonging, and can ultimate-
ly influence the purchase.
“The seasoned and professional sales associates at Williams Trading
along with team Maia will help create new business ventures,” says Mara
Epstein, Director of Sales and Marketing for Maia Toys. “The strong point
of purchase materials and education will be available to all retailers as they
learn about the colors of erotica.”
For more information, please visit Williamstradingco.com.