SO... WHAT IS A CUDDLE PARTY?

Cuddle Party is a fun, playful social event designed for adults to explore communication, boundaries and affection. You can come to a Cuddle Party to meet new people, to enjoy amazing conversations, to touch, to be touched, to have fun, to practice asking for what you want, to practice saying “no” to what you don’t want — all in a setting structured to be a safe place for exploration and enjoyment. You can even come to a Cuddle Party just to cuddle!

WHAT HAPPENS AT A CUDDLE PARTY?

Cuddle party is a non-sexual event, and a place where you can relax, be yourself, have fun, connect, make friends, learn new communication skills, and give and receive platonic touch in a healthy way.

First, everyone arrives on time, gets registered, and gets comfy in the space.

Next, our facilitator will gently lead you and the other guests through a welcome circle and orientation, and short workshop on boundaries and consent. We’ll play some games where you’ll learn to make easy, respectful requests and communicate clear boundaries. We’ll go over the simple rules.

Everyone agrees to the cuddle party rules, which include:

• Pajamas stay on the whole time.
• Ask for what you want and get a verbal “yes” before proceeding.
• You don’t have to cuddle or touch anyone you don’t want to, or anyone at all, ever.
• You are free to leave at any time.

Once the workshop portion of the event is over, we’ll have the remainder of the evening for free-style cuddle time – to relax, chat, cuddle, or just hang out.

Typically, people enjoy foot-rubs, back rubs, spooning, nuzzling, and just generally snuggling up together. Some people like to settle in for a period of time, others like to try shorter times with a variety of people. Usually 3 or 4 or more will end up in something of a ‘puppy pile’.

At the end, we close with a short closing circle to share gratitude and say goodbye.

WHO ATTENDS A CUDDLE PARTY?

Cuddle party is open to all ages (18+), genders, sexual and relationship orientations, body shapes/sizes/abilities, backgrounds and relationship statuses. It is great for those who are single, and for those in a relationship. You can come with a date, come with a friend, or come by yourself. New people are encouraged to join.

If you are in a relationship, we ask that you check in with yourself and/or your partner(s) to ensure that attending the Cuddle Party falls within your relationship agreements before attending.

WHAT TO WEAR / BRING

Please bring pillows, blankets, yoga mats, foamies, etc to contribute to our cuddle space! There are beautiful hardwood floors in the space and some foam tiles, but if everyone brings something soft to lay on, we will be very comfortable! (Tip: it’s not really possible to bring too many cuddle supplies!)

Wear comfy, loose-fitting clothes or bring pajamas to change into. Sweat pants are fine, but no shorts or tank tops, please. Think cosy, not sexy.

Please arrive having recently showered, and also be scent-free. Some people are sensitive or allergic to perfumes, oils, and scented products.

Bring a water bottle, and a snack for yourself (or to share with the group) if you would like. This is an alcohol and drug-free event.

PLEASE BE ON TIME!

The welcome circle and orientation is a vital part of the evening where we get to know each other, and hone our communication and boundary skills. This creates the clarity and safety that lets everyone relax and know they are on the same page. Doors open at 1:30pm, and close at 2:00pm . The opening circle starts at 2:00pm sharp and if you arrive after we begin, sorry, we will not be able to let you in.

COST: $15

Tickets are required and can be purchased on eventbrite or by sending an e-transfer for $15 to nelson.cuddling@gmail.com. Please add a comment with your name and the date of the event. Use the password: consent

REDUCED PRICE TICKETS

A number of people have asked about reduced cost tickets for those on a limited income. We want Cuddle Party to be as open and accessible as possible. Please get in touch if this applies to you and we may be able to assist.

If you are able, please also consider adding a $10 “donated” ticket to your order and we will pass it on (anonymously) to someone in need. Thanks for helping build this community while making sure we can cover the costs.

FEEDBACK

I am completing the official cuddleparty.com facilitator training and at the end of this event I will be asking participants to complete feedback forms. Just like everything at cuddle party, that is optional, but most appreciated.

COVID PRECAUTIONS

There are no official guidelines for this type of event as it is a combination of both a workshop, and physical activity / interactions / cuddling, where distancing cannot be maintained. Please bring your BC vaccine card / proof of full vaccination. We will be following public health guidelines based on adult indoor sports and classes like yoga, which is similar. Masks are optional, as long as everyone within 6 feet consents to masks being removed. Please wear a mask when you arrive. We will talk about this more in the opening circle. If you have any questions in advance, please contact me.

ACCESSIBILITY

This event is at a private house. There are steps up to the front door. There is stair free access around through the garden / across the lawn, but no easy wheelchair access. Allergy info: This is a house with cats.