Pleasure Reviews: The Oui

The Oui is a brand new vibrator on the market, just released by the folks over at California Exotics, who, if you didn’t know, are responsible for a huge quantity of the erotic toys that you purchase and enjoy. I had the opportunity to review The Oui recently, and I thought I’d share my findings with you before you head over to the store to make your purchase.

The first thing I have to say is that I am consistently disappointed with Cal Exotic’s packaging. It always looks cheap and tacky, which is counterproductive to their efforts to produce a toy that looks more sleek and sophisticated. A little packaging redesign would go a long way in helping them redefine their image, in my humble opinion.

The Oui is a small, thin vibe, about the size of the palm of my hand, and I have small hands. It has a sleek look because of that, and I think it’s meant to be shaped like lips, which I’m really not crazy about. But the shape is sort of abstract and you can choose to overlook that if you like.

It has one small button at the top that turns it on and off, and despite its size, it has amazing vibration strength, which I loved. Definitely strong enough to be used alone or during intercourse. Its sleek look comes from the fact that it’s made of plastic, so it gets a bit slippery when wet, but it super easy to keep clean.



Some other features I really liked: it only uses 1 AAA battery, and it comes with a little carrying pouch, which made it discreet to stash in my bag. This is the perfect traveling companion toy, without a doubt.

Because of its inexpensive price-point and unintimidating, discreet design, I would say this is a really great purchase for toy beginners or as a travel toy. I gave mine to a friend that was headed out of the country for awhile because it was easily slipped into her carry-on, won’t be an embarrassment if it gets strewn about on the security desk, and packs enough power to keep her satisfied in South America!

Overall, I give it 3 hearts out of 5 for being a solid purchase.

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The Pleasure Chest on LA.com

Photo courtesy of LA.com

We at The Pleasure Chest do enjoy a good shout out every now and again, and thanks to Eric's piece for the LA.com blog, we got one for this holiday season. Thanks Eric, we try to keep our stores stocked with treats for the timid to the fearless. That way it's kind of one-stop shopping for all of your naughty needs.

Check out the rest of the stores on this list, including Trashy Lingerie, which is a store where I blow copious wads of cash every time I'm in LA!

Pleasure Re-Post #3

I read so many great sex/love/relationship related posts all over the blogosphere, and I wanted to share some of my favorites with you. Sunday is the perfect day for a recap, which will get you all squared away for the new week. So, it is with pleasure that I present to you the Pleasure Re-Post.

The theme of this week's Re-Post is eye candy. Don't talk, just look.

~ The weekly gratuitous nude on Fleshbot.com this week is one of my favorite alternative models, Apnea, and a friend. Pas de deux!

~ Three words from the Boobie Blog: naked. female. athletes. Enough said.

~ In the mood for dessert? Pink Milk has what you're looking for.

~ Sugarcut asks, what rhymes with crimson hair in a crimson boudoir? Yum, that's what.

Last Minute Christmas Love

Let's be honest: some of you have put off your Christmas shopping until the very last minute. It's okay; the season gets busy pretty quickly, and before you know it, you've crept up on Christmas Eve with no gifts in sight.

Which is why my recommendation is to snag one of my favorite gifts from The Pleasure Chest, our rhinestone handcuffs. And here's why: you can give them in all seriousness to the connoisseur of kink because they are real and in working order, having both a key and an emergency unlock button. But, because of the insanely gorgeous level of bling, you can give them as a novelty gift with a wink and a giggle. They aren't as intimidating as some other sexy gifts, and inevitably the recipient will try them out for their intended purpose.

These rhinestone handcuffs are absolutely on my short list of best sexy gifts of all time. Whether shopping for a fashionista or a truly debauched dame, they bring smiles to all sorts of kinky faces. If you're in the area, swing by the LA, NYC, or Chicago stores to see for yourself.

Merry Blingy Christmas!

Pleasure Re-Post #2

I read so many great sex/love/relationship related posts all over the blogosphere, and I wanted to share some of my favorites with you. Sunday is the perfect day for a recap, which will get you all squared away for the new week. So, it is with pleasure that I present to you the Pleasure Re-Post.

~ A topic that can never be discussed often enough, CherryTV.com tackles the question of talking about sex and what you want with your partner. Advisable though it is, it really can be so difficult sometimes.

~ Another really touchy topic is whether or not you could forgive your partner after they cheated on you. At A Good Husband, one reader offers to share her story of being cheated on, and how she dealt with the aftermath.

~ Thank goodness. Finally, another recent review about the female condom. Thanks to the Stiletto Diaries for biting the bullet and giving some food for though with a very enlightening post.

~ And from the guys over at AskMen.com, a little advice about what you can do for your female partner after you've peaked. We've all got different rhythms. It's important to acknowledge that we can't always be organized enough to orgasm at the same time. These alternatives will help take the pressure off.

A Holiday Treat from The Pleasure Chest NYC

If you happen to be in the New York City area, suffering through the nasty weather and trying to enjoy the lovely lights of the season, The Pleasure Chest NYC has an offer that might help relieve some of the tension of last-minute shopping.

Naughty and Nice

Toys with a little spice

Feeling a bit stressed during the Holiday season? Stop in The Pleasure Chest New York to buy a gift for a friend or loved one and get one in return.

On December 22nd and 23rd, de-stress with a 10 minute massage while your gifts are being wrapped.

Who says you can't have a little naughty with your nice?

Massage available December 22nd and 23rd from 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Walk-in only
Massage available with an $80.00 minimum purchase

Mainstream Adult

It's a good year for representation of adult actresses in mainstream movies.

And by "good" I mean a year where there are actually representations of adult actresses on screen. Gugino is slated to play an adult star named Elektra Luxx who discovers she is pregnant in the upcoming movie of the same name. Judging from the photo above, they made a good choice.

Additionally, actual adult performer Sasha Grey is playing the lead in Steven Soderbergh's upcoming film, "The Girlfriend Experience," which is the subject of much hype. And Anna Faris was going to play Linda Lovelace in a biopic about the famed actress from "Deep Throat," but that fell through after Faris decided it was too intense for her.

Oh well. Maybe they should call Natalie Portman up.

Sex Tape

Everyone has it: their sex CD. A carefully culled playlist full of tunes to get it on to. Some are kind of campy (think "Sexual Healing") and fun, and others are intensely focused, throbbing jams. Either way, it's good to have one on hand, by the stereo, just in case. Because you never know when the mood to tie someone to a chair and strip for them is going to strike.

Or maybe that's just me...

So here's a list I compiled today, along with the help of some Twitter followers, and we've got a little bit of everything in here. By the way, now that I'm spilling all about the goings-on of my live, both sexual and otherwise, you can keep tabs on me at @pleasurehappens. And even better, then I can keep up with your life in return.

For the first time in the history of this blog, I've opened up the comments, so throw up a song in the comments section if I've made an egregious error in leaving out your favorite sex jam.



- "For Me Formidable" by Charles Aznavour (from @rabbitsreviews)

- "Bump and Grind" by R. Kelly
"Come Back To Bed" by John Meyer
(from @adamandeve)

- "My neck, My back" Tom Neville remix by Khia
"Come On Closer" by Jem
(from @scarletsletter)

- "Time Has Come Today" by The Chamber Brothers (from @DudeAsInCool)

- "Avalon" (the whole album) by Roxy,
"Boléro" by Maurice Ravel
"Adore" by Prince
(from @mattthomas)


And a couple of my favorites:

- "All Mine" by Portishead

- "Que Passe" by Jens Buchert

- "All I Need" by Radiohead

- "Save Me (Coldcut Remix)" by Nina Simone

- "Fade Into You" by Mazzy Star

- "#1 Crush" by Garbage

- "Lust" by The Raveonettes

Pleasure Re-Post

Weekly round-ups are a new addition to this blog, mainly because I read so many great sex/love/relationship related posts all over the blogosphere, that I wanted to share some of my favorites with you. Sunday is the perfect day for a recap, which will get you all squared away for the new week. So, it is with pleasure that I present to you the first Pleasure Re-Post.

What Is HPV?- Though there's been a lot of talk about it in the media, a lot of people are really unsure as to what exactly HPV is. Em and Lo over at Daily Bedpost take on the tough question and give you an answer you can actually understand and use.

Single Says... - I always love the question "Why are you still single?" as though Ihave some sort of untreated disease that I just haven't made it to the doctor to get checked out. The Dating Lame has posted some hilarious and convincing evidence of why it may not be such a bad idea after all.

Gigi Lust - The Gigi by Lelo is one of their gorgeous little toys that I swoon over so frequently. Having My Cake and Eating It, Too does her very own glowing review of the small but powerful seductress.

The Death of Courting - The guys over at Very Smart Brothas are some of my new favorite bloggers to read. They're blunt, occasionally crass, and always controversial. But they do address some sex and relationship issues with a straightforward perspective that I can appreciate. Like this post about dating, sex, and what guys are after.

The Passing of Bettie Page

Late Thursday night, I was saddened to hear of the passing of Bettie Page, arguably the most famous pin-up model that ever lived. She was a personal icon of mine, a true trailblazer at a time when women's sexuality was neither supposed to be seen nor heard.

I think the characteristic of Bettie's that struck people the most was her ownership of her own sexuality. She never felt ashamed of what she was doing, because she didn't think it was wrong. And she was able to convey that sense of unadulturated sexiness and sheer fun in her photos, which is why I think she became such a sensation.

When Bettie was at the height of her popularity, women were relegated to the kitchen and the nursery. She was beautiful and brave, and we all owe her a true debt for showing the world what a liberated woman looked like. Here's to you, Bette.

The Bachelor Guy's tribute to Bettie

The Bettie Page memorial site

Recommendations...

I had an email pop into my inbox today asking me for a bit of advice...

There was a person who wanted to know if I had any suggestions for anal beads he should buy as a gift for his partner. In general, I kind of feel like unless you know exactly what sex toy someone wants as a gift, then you should probably just give a gift certificate.

In this case, however, there are easier choices, so I can give a more solid recommendation. With anal beads, there is no other way to go than with silicone. Silicone is non-porous and will not retain bacteria, so you don't have to use a condom with any toy made of silicone. Using a condom on anal beads is ridiculously difficult, anyway. Don't use anal beads that are tied together with rope or string, because those can trap nasty bacteria no matter how well you wash them.

Also, look for a toy with graduated anal beads, that way you can give them something to work up to. Not to mention that you don't have to intuit the size they might prefer. Options are good.

The item featured is the Bendy Beads by Fun Factory. The name is cheesy as hell, but the product is actually quite good, and has all the characteristics I mentioned. The price point is exactly what you can expect from a silicone toy, which will run you more than any old other toy. Plus, it comes in different colors, which is important if you're me and you're trying to match it all to your nail polish.

Lap Dance Workshop Wednesday

Have you ever seen a lapdance? Not a crappy, half-assed strip club lapdance, but a really amazing, well-executed lap dance? It can be the most erotic sight to watch, when done properly with the right lingerie.

The Pleasure Chest in LA will be presenting a couples lap dance workshop on Wednesday night. It's a chance to bring your partner along, if you like, and explore the possibilities of sensual movement as foreplay...or any other kind of play that you like.

"This workshop is designed for couples that want to explore the mystery and sensuality behind the lap dance while creating an evening of exotic entertainment. Role play and act out your ultimate fantasy as an exotic performer. Sensual movement is a form of healthy sexual expression that all can benefit from. Learn how to bring positive sensual energy into your relationship or to spice up an evening. Our instruction includes setting the mood, location, creating the character for role play, sensual body movements, striptease and celebration."

Click the calendar in the right hand sidebar for more information...

Limp Economy Doesn't Mean Flagging Sales

The economy sucks right now. No doubt about that. Everyone is cutting back on the things that they love, meaning not only do we have less money, we're also making more sacrifices, and that combination can really cut into your good mood.

There are some things, however, that people do not seem to be able to give up. We can perhaps cut back, but no one is going to forsake their morning coffee or their evening cocktail. And who in their right mind would give up their orgasms?

This article in the New York Post cites decreased interest in bedroom activity as the reason that sex toy sales have stayed in the black in an economy that's in the red. We personally think it's because the country knows what not to go without, even in times of recession.

Follow Me On Twitter

You may have noticed my active little Twitter feed on the right hand sidebar. That's because I've recently taken to the microblogging platform. It's perfect for me in all of my curiosity about what scandalous goings-on are happening in the blogosphere (and real time!). There are some seriously debauched good times happening out there, and I plan on being in on it.

If you're on Twitter, then click on the link to follow me. But be warned: I'm the kind of girl who loves to Tweet, so you'll hear all about my sordid exploits or lack there of. Oh, and of course we plan on Tweeting exclusive offers and discount codes, which will be really useful during this holiday season.

If you aren't on Twitter, check it out! It's a voyeur's dream come true.

Nina Hartley Does Chicago!

*Swoon*

Lucky Chicago, Nina Hartley will be visiting our Chicago store for the next 3 days, imparting her wisdom and experience upon those of us that so desperately seek it. The woman is a goddess and a legend, not to mention a powerhouse of sexiness, skills, and one hell of a teacher.

She'll be carrying on workshops about everything from blow jobs to anal sex, so if you're in the Chicago area, check out the full list and explanation of each class here to figure out which ones to sign up for. Oh, and if you're really feeling adventurous, sign up for all three, and we'll give you 20% off! That's just our way of supporting you through your advanced studies.

Evangelicals Having Better Sex?

Now, this is a fascinating piece...

Tucker Carlson, of MSNBC fame, recently wrote this piece on evangelical Christians and the recent charge made by a Texas pastor for them to have more sex. That's right. Rev. Ed Young told his parishioners that sex makes for better marriages, and encouraged them to have sex every night for a month.

Now, don't read this article expecting it to be non-biased. Carlson makes no bones about how he feels about evangelical Christianity. But what we're actually focusing on here is the message: that sex is good for you and good for relationships. And though that sex positive message is wrapped up in evangelical ideology, which we all know isn't very tolerant or liberal, it is a baby-step. When it comes to this stuff, I am a harm reductionist. Because once pastors start preaching in favor of sex, then maybe it isn't such a far step for them to begin preaching about safe sex, and educating all of those fast little PK's about how to keep themselves safe.

It's true and you know it. Preacher's kids were always the worst!

Americans still fall way behind in the international statistics of number of times having sex per week. Married couples in the States can barely get it together to work it out two times a week. In a country where we've created systems and products and tools to make everything take less time and effort, why are we not spending our leisure time boinking?

Personally, I think that's the best public health plan to date. We'd probably have much lower rates of high blood pressure and Prozac consumption, just sayin'...

A "Stimulating" November...

The exciting month of November is quickly drawing to a close, and as we all look toward holiday gift shopping, I wanted to remind you of a special that will help make it easier to check those names off your list...or perhaps just indulge yourself.

All rechargeable toys are 20% off through the rest of November. That means anything you can plug in to your wall is eligible for this discount. And because you can recharge these fabulous toys, that means no more burning through batteries at a steady clip, which is better for the environment, anyway.

And having a brand new toy to come home to every night is better for your holiday mindset, so spread the good cheer around. That's what I call stimulating...

Vivid Releases Sugar

I have long predicted that this moment would come in porn: that mainstream movies would start moving back toward a more "natural" look with their performers. For a long time, "natural" adult performers have been marketed toward more of a niche audience: people who liked natural breasts or hair color; different from the platinum blonde Barbie look that has dominated the industry for so long.

Introducing Hanna Hilton in the new Vivid release, "Sugar." She is one of their newest performers, apparently, and one of her big marketing points are her all natural 34DD's. I personally think this is a step in a more interesting direction. For so many years, performers have been attempting to replicate Jenna Jameson's look and therefore her success, but, in the famed words of Coco Chanel, "In order to be irreplaceable, you must be unique." That which is a dime-a-dozen stops doing it for ya after awhile.

So I'm welcoming Hanna Hilton onto the scene and hoping that this is the beginning of a shift back towards appreciating female performers and their natural assets.

How To Use Condoms

I know this seems remedial to many of you, but honestly, I've had a lot of people ask me about this and to demonstrate. I mean, since most of the sex education available in schools is abstinence based, it's not like kids are being taught how to properly put on a condom. Also, ladies who sleep with male-bodied partners, it's good to know what's up and not always rely on him to do the sheathing. Sometimes it's sexy to grab the damn thing, rip in open, and slide it on yourself.

Lots of people have trouble figuring out which way the condom unrolls when they first pull it out. This happens a lot, best to try unrolling it just a bit in your hand first to figure it out. If you've already put it on the penis and discovered it's the wrong direction, don't simply turn it inside out. Throw it out, because you may have already gotten semen on it, thus defeating the purpose.

This video says it all, concisely. Plus, the British accents make words like "condom" and "massage" sound so lovely and proper.





And just because female condoms are such an enigma to almost everyone I've ever spoken to, I'm putting this video in as well. Now you can see how these things actually work, and yes, it is actually as awkward as it looks in this video. I have tried many-a-time to figure out how to make this thing user friendly, but it just isn't. Plus, people report having a difficult time figuring out how to remove it without spilling the sperm.

JimmyJane Rocks Out

JimmyJane has just released a new rock video teaser featuring one of their famed vibrators. Apparently these things have quite a celebrity following as far as luxury toys go. Watch the video and see if you recognize the celebs taking part: