Guest written by Rain Andersen (@wearenotfriends_) a veteran sworker with eight years in adult entertainment and three years working for Lovers.

This last year has shown us that everyone deserves some extra love. In a time where pleasure is in such short supply, Lovers is proud to offer our shoppers the ultimate gift: the gift of orgasm. Whether you are shopping for trending sex toys, sexy stocking stuffers, or must-have holiday kits- Lovers has everything you need to make this holiday season the most memorable one yet.

Today, we're sharing a few tips on how you can locate the perfect gift for your loved ones, and preview some of the hottest holiday sex toys of the year.

QUICK LINKS:

1. Is a Sex Toy a Good Gift?
2. How Much Should I Spend on a Sex Toy?
3. What Type of Sex Toy Should I Buy?
4. Double Duty Sex Toys: The Gift That Keeps Giving
5. Make It Personal: Hand-Selected Sex Toys
6. Sex Toy Essentials for the Perfect Gift Bundle
7. The Best Sex Toys for Holiday

Is a Sex Toy a Good Gift?

Buying sex toys is a delicate art. It can be helpful to determine if the recipient of your gift is open to receiving a sex toy before investing in a new pleasure product. An investigative conversation can help to determine what sort of products they are interested in and what concerns they may have. My friends, family, and partners know that the sex toy industry is my passion, so it never comes as a surprise when I am gifting a pleasure object. Reference the check list below to determine if a sex toy is a viable gifting option for your loved ones. If you are still on the fence, don’t hesitate to communicate to your friend/lover/sibling/parent that you are interested in gifting them something of the adult variety.

• They expressed interest in using a vibrator
• They have shared a sexual concern with you, seeking feedback or suggestions
• They openly discuss their sexual experiences with you
• They have purchased a sex toy for you or with you

How Much Should I Spend on a Sex Toy?

You’ve decided to buy a sex toy! Vibrators, lubricants, and restraints can make incredibly fun gifts for both the giver and the receiver. Disposable products or products made from less durable materials are great for individuals that are looking to dip their toes into a new shape or style of toy, but when I am gifting a sex toy I’m looking for products that will last long term. I want to pick out products that will allow my loved ones to explore new sensations without having to worry about an expiration date. Exploring your sexuality should be on your own timeline, be it five days or five months after receiving or purchasing a sex toy. By buying body-safe gifts, I am communicating to my loved ones that I want them to find pleasure in the safest and easiest way possible. We recommend materials like glass, steel, and silicone for long-term and body-safe use. You can find body-safe sex toys at a variety of different price points ranging from $20.00-$300.00.

What Type of Sex Toy Should I Buy?

Sex toys come in many different shapes and textures. When it comes to picking out a sex toy, consider how the design of the product might impact the user’s experience. As a seasoned sex toy buyer, I understand that it can be difficult (AKA: FRUSTRATING) to flip through a 30-page product manual. Using a sex toy does not need to be complicated. If you are purchasing a toy for a first-time user, look to simple and intuitive button interfaces. It is common to see around three buttons on your vibrator. These buttons allow you to increase power, decrease power, or engage a pattern mode. Some toys are equipped with anywhere from 4-7 buttons. My advice -  save these for experienced toy users.

I also like to look at the texture and size of the toy. If you are able, hold the product in your hands. Is the product soft? Is it textured? How does it feel in your hand? Toys that sit in your palm or act as an extension of your fingertips can be more approachable for less experienced individuals. Finally, take a look at the ambiguity of the toy. Most people will find it alarming to receive a realistic looking sex toy. Unless this is something you’ve discussed with them, opt for toys that could pass for a facial massager, art object, or household device.

Double Duty Sex Toys: The Gift That Keeps Giving

The next thing we will want to consider are the features and functions of your vibrator. I like to purchase water-proof products with a wide range of settings. This ensures that no matter what type of stimulation my loved one likes; they will be able to access it. A toy with an unusual shape should never be overlooked, as these products can translate to more versatile use. Perhaps you want to purchase them a dual action vibrator that could moonlight as an anal toy. A clitoral toy may double as a body massager. Keep your options open so that your loved one can get creative. This also creates an opportunity to hone in on any special features you might want to include. For example, I love to purchase app-enabled sex toys for my friends in long distance relationships. What features could your special someone benefit from?

Make It Personal: Hand-Selected Sex Toys

I’m a huge fan of bundling gifts. I love to watch my friends and lovers discover their sexuality with confidence and enthusiasm, so I try to include any products that could help take their experience to the next level. The Intimate Earth Intense Clitoral Stimulant is my ride-or-die product. I make sure that I always include a bottle of this with any gift I purchase because it was so life changing for me. If you have a product that changed your perspective on sex toys, this is the time to include it! Gifts are a great way to share your favorite products with a loved one. Adding in a few small items can create a storyline for the receiver that makes your gift even more special... locate some of our favorite small items in our online stocking stuffer collection.

Sex Toy Essentials for the Perfect Gift Bundle

Don’t forget these essentials when purchasing a sex toy as a gift! Lubricant and toy cleaner can help to ensure better sexual experiences and improve the longevity of your sex toy. Set your friends and lovers up for success and get them the proper tools to service their toys. This will safeguard your loved ones from bacteria that accumulates on the surface of the toy, or any tearing that could occur.

We hope this guide gave you a little more confidence when it comes to gifting a sex toy. If you’re still feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of finding the perfect holiday gift, then head to one of our 39 U.S. locations. Our store associates love to empower others with the gift of pleasure! Stop by today to speak with an in-store expert or visit our online store to shop solo.

The Best Sex Toys for Holiday 2023

We've all heard the nightmare: a viral holiday gift that goes inexplicably out of stock right as you add it to your cart. This year, we're predicting that these holiday gifts will be flying off the shelves. Don't want to miss a beat? Sign up for a free Lovers Afterglow rewards account to get updates on our newest arrivals and holiday sales! 

b-Vibe Anal Education Kit, $160.00

Looking for an experiential holiday gift? Look no further than the b-Vibe Anal Education Kit! This bundle offers users a crash course in anal training, containing everything you need for safe and confident booty play. Equipped with three styles of anal plugs, a lubricant launcher, an anal douche, and an in-depth education manual- the b-Vibe Anal Education Kit will keep you and your lover entertained for months on end! Looking for a different type of kit? Shop our favorite vibrators bundles online!

 

SnailVibe Curve, $159.00

Further Readings:

A Beginners Guide to Long Distance Sex Toys: Lovers
The Semilino Had Me Moaning After A 3-Month Dry Spell: Lovers
A Beginners Guide to Restraints: Lovers

WITH PLEASURE,

LOVERS