Darkside Issue 49 | Page 89

Darkside 89

Vetting is not just specific to an individual , but a community or organisation as well

waivers , release forms and lists of rules and guidelines that are to be followed and adhered to while participating . Protocols and guidelines may differ based on the curator ’ s decisions , location of the space where the event is held , the city and it ’ s laws . It is important to become familiar with what is to be expected as an attendee . There are various types of events that take place within the lifestyle ; never make the assumption that all curators and organizations are aware of one another ’ s rules and expectations of their events . Rules and guidelines will differ based on the type of event as well . In lifestyle events such as munches , dungeon parties , play parties , sex parties , taboo parties and orgies , these are not categorized as the same type of events ; therefore , the practices , rules and expectations will differ . A munch , for example , is a kink-friendly meetup and is held in a public space , usually restaurants . The details of munches vary based on who is organizing as well as the theme or topic . Munches provide a safe space for lifestylers to meet and greet , network , share experiences and ideas , as well as a “ show ‘ n tell ” for toys and activities . Munches are great for people who are less experienced or new to the area or even novice to the lifestyle . Munches provide an opportunity to attain stories of other ’ s experiences , lessons and results of their improvement . Munches are perfect for those who prefer meeting people in person rather than online . It also is a great opportunity for those who have met online to finally meet publicly . You never know , some of those people attending could also help vet potential play partners as well .
more formal than munches and may even require pre-screening and have a dress code . When reviewing the details of the event , make sure you are aware if there is a dress code , if a donation is required , and if pre-screening is required to help you better prepare by knowing what to expect .
What next ?
When introducing yourself to individuals you may meet at an event , leading with your preferred name / alias , as well as pronouns and role ( s ) in the lifestyle will help a great deal . Whether you ascribe as a Dominant , submissive , bottom , Top , or even just a kinkster , those wanting to interact with you will want to know or at least have some idea of the type of energy you have . People also attend events in search of possible play partners to mingle with and get to know .
After meeting someone new at a lifestyle event and an introduction has taken place , it is now time to exchange each person ’ s list of kinks / fetishes and limits , as well as any pre-existing health conditions , injuries , traumas and triggers . Stay tuned for next month ’ s Breakdown , when I will break down limitations and why it is important to exercise the right to your autonomy and negotiate boundaries within any scene or play space for the safety of self and others around you .
Sex-positive parties such as dungeon parties , orgies and play parties are
More from Madam Carmen next month !
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