For Him

The Importance of Communication in a Relationship

September 14, 2021 by Margaret Fry

For over the past 10 years, Velvet Box has helped thousands of people overcome sexual barriers so they can experience the connection and excitement they deserve and have always wanted. Today, we’re letting you in on sex therapists’ top tips on how to experience the connection and sexual fulfillment you’re looking for in your relationship. Enter: the importance of communication.

Why is communication important?

Communication is vital for building and sustaining a healthy relationship both in and outside of the bedroom. Lack of communication can lead to a disconnect between partners, even if it’s not obvious right away. Just as we strive to change the narrative around sex and sexual wellness through open dialogue, it’s important that you communicate with your partner (and yourself) about your personal and sexual needs and desires in order to nurture your relationship and avoid discourse now and in the future.

Here, with the help of Dr. Marty Klein’s “8 Ways to Put Sex Therapists Out of Business” article, we answer why having open communication about sex (and everything else!) with your partner is important and advice to get you started.

Communication closes the gap between questions and answers

Does your partner know how you like to be touched when having sex? Do they know that you need a little extra stimulation to orgasm? Do you know if your partner likes it when you go down on them? In the words of Dr. Klein, “the answer to many, many questions is simply ‘talk to your partner.’ And do it more than once.” Take the time to sit down and talk about these things with your partner outside of the bedroom. Chances are you aren’t the only one who has questions.

To get going, try bringing our Teach Me Your Love Language communication tool to the table. For those who need a little extra help (and that’s quite a lot of us!) to achieve a full orgasm, try adding one (or all) of these into the mix: We Vibe Pivot, Womanizer Premium Eco, Wicked Gel Lubricant.

Communication can lead to more sexual fulfillment

It’s totally normal to feel vulnerable or insecure about your (or your partner’s) desires and fantasies, but as long as everyone is on the same page with safety and consent, there’s no need to. According to Dr. Klein, a “fantasy is a way to ‘experience’ things without any real-world consequences. Thus, fantasy is a library of human sexual imagination. No one fantasizes about things they can easily do in real life.” Of course, your fantasies might seem weird at first – they’re from your imagination! If you have a desire or fantasy that can’t be lived out without the help of your partner, tell them about it and ask them if they have any you can help with, too. Try using our Sexual Interest Inventory communication tool to get started. You might find that you both fantasize about the same things, or create a new, shared fantasy altogether. It takes two to tango!

When exploring your fantasies or trying new things in the bedroom, remember to always practice Aftercare to ensure both parties involved feel safe, comfortable, and listened to.

Communication can help to overcome sexual setbacks

There are many reasons why penetrative sex may not be an option (erectile dysfunction, painful vagina, or someone just isn’t in the mood). So if you want intercourse but can’t have it, talking to your partner about trying out other options is far healthier for your relationship than just stopping in frustration. In the words of Dr. Klein, “if two people want to have sex, and they can’t do the thing they planned to do, there are plenty of alternatives.” Find out what intimate acts you can do to satisfy each other when penetrative sex isn’t an option. Is it massaging in a certain spot? Find out with our How to Touch Me tool. Is it adding the use of a toy? If so, sit down with your partner and explore all that we have to offer in the For Us category of our online shop.

So, what have we learned?

Above all else, always keep in mind our favorite phrase: communication is lubrication. And that applies to both in and outside of the bedroom. Communication is the basis of all human interaction, and having an open conversation about sex with your partner should be no different than asking them how their day went. However, we understand that isn’t always that simple. So if you need a little extra confidence to initiate a conversation, our communication tools are tremendously helpful.

Everyone deserves great sex, and you deserve to know what works for you. Get brave and come see us at one of our five Dallas-Fort Worth locations. We’re proud to help you.

Kegels for All!

June 21, 2021 by Velvet Box

Kegel exercises are an important part of pelvic health. Think of them as going to the gym, but for your pelvis. But, how? Well, with the help of our trusted sex-perts, we’re here to talk to you through all of your Kegel FAQS, including what they are, why they are important, and how to do them.

What are Kegel exercises?

Kegel exercises (or “Kegels”) are simple clench-and-release exercises that you can do 3 to 4 times a day to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. They are named after Dr. Arnold Kegel, an American gynecologist who noted that the pelvic floor muscles were weakened by childbirth.

Who are Kegel exercises for?

Everyone! Both penis and vulva owners can benefit from Kegel exercises.

Why are Kegel exercises important?

Weak pelvic floor muscles can lead to health issues, such as the inability to control your bladder or bowels, and Kegels help to reduce this issue (and more!).

By strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, kegel exercises are beneficial for:

Reducing urinary and fecal incontinence (from sneezing, coughing, or laughing)
Supporting more intense orgasms and ejaculation
Speeding the recovery of the pelvic floor post-pregnancy or surgery

For vulva owners, Kegel exercises can also improve sexual sensation. When the muscles are stronger, more blood flows to the area, improving sensation. For penis owners, they help support erectile function— Kegel exercises make it easier to achieve and maintain an erection.

How to do Kegel exercises for Vulva Owners

Start by finding the right muscles. To identify your pelvic floor muscles, stop urination in midstream. If you succeed, you’ve got the right muscles. Imagine your pelvic floor muscles like an elevator rising in your body. Do not push.

Once you’ve identified your pelvic floor muscles, lie on your back.

Tighten your pelvic floor muscles and hold the contraction for 5 seconds and then relax for 5 seconds. Try it 4 or 5 times in a row.

Work up to keeping the muscles contracted for 10 seconds at a time, relaxing for 10 seconds between contractions. For best results, focus on tightening only your pelvic floor muscles. Be careful not to flex the muscles in your abdomen, thighs or buttocks, and remember to breathe!

As an extra strengthening technique, you can add in the use of a Kegel & Pelvic Exerciser.

How to do Kegel exercises for Penis Owners

Start by finding the right muscles. To identify your pelvic floor muscles, stop urination in midstream. If you succeed, you’ve got the right muscles.

Once you’ve identified your pelvic floor muscles, lie on your back. Tighten your pelvic floor muscles, and hold the contraction for 5 seconds and then relax for 5 seconds. Try it 4 or 5 times in a row.

Work up to keeping the muscles contracted for 10 seconds at a time, relaxing for 10 seconds between contractions. For best results, focus on tightening only your pelvic floor muscles. Be careful not to flex the muscles in your abdomen, thighs or buttocks, and avoid holding your breath.

You can also practice laying a washcloth over your penis and ‘bouncing’ it. Start with a dry cloth and as you work up in strength, you can use a wet one.

How often do I do Kegel exercises?

For both penis and vulva owners, the best practice is to aim for at least 3 sets of 10 repetitions a day. However, you know your body best. Keep in mind that this should be a challenge!

Once you’ve mastered the art of Kegels, you’ll realize that you can do them anytime and anyplace – while relaxing at home or even sitting at your desk.

Important note for all

Don’t make a habit of using Kegel exercises to start and stop your urine stream. can actually weaken the muscles and lead to incomplete emptying of the bladder, increasing the risk of urinary tract infection.

Resources

Have questions or need more guidance? Stop by one of our five Velvet Box locations to talk to one of our sexual health specialists. Would rather stay home? Watch this video for the best how-to for kegel exercises, which we use in our associate training!

4 Must Have Toys To Make Them Melt This Valentine’s Day

February 11, 2020 by Velvet Box

2020 is here and she is not playing around. There is an abundance of jaw-dropping new and naughty things coming out this year! And we are here to weed through the lot of them and pick out the hottest, most enticing sheet-gripping items that you just shouldn’t miss this Valentine’s Day.

1. We-Vibe Melt

WeVibe Melt Velvet Box DFW Womens Sex Toys

Let’s start off with the toy that has Melt right there in the name. The We-Vibe Melt is the newest air pulse toy from the geniuses over at We-Vibe. And boy does this baby live up to its name. The air pulses gently massage the clitoris, leading to intense pleasure and incredible orgasms. Melt’s pulsating waves and gentle suction surround the clitoris with sensations that range from gentle kisses to stronger suction as you increase the intensity. This baby is also the first air pulse technology toy designed for couples. Melt’s slender, angled shape fits perfectly between you and your partner in any position, with no bulk to get in the way of your pleasure.

2. Svakom Alex

Svakom Alex is a incredibly powerful thrusting stroker. Alex has 7 intense auto-thrusting modes for ultimate pleasure. Ultra-soft internal material for a realistic touch. And even comes equipped with 5 immersive scenarios with vocal and scenic sounds.

3. We-Wand by We-Vibe

We-Vibe has used their genius to create yet another phenomenal product. The We-Wand! This is the most advanced and powerful wireless massager on the market. That’s right, with this baby not only do you get a dimmer switch that can take you from zero to blast off with the touch of a button, you don’t have to be tethered to a wall. It also Includes two innovative attachments for different sensations — one fluttery and focused, the other smooth and stroking. AND it is app capable. This is a powerhouse that anyone would be excited to have in their sexy arsenal.

4. Cadenza by Femme Funn

Femme Funn has redefined the meaning of the word power with its incredibly advanced motors that always manage to curl our toes. This is not your average vibrator, this is a thrusting toy that is perfectly curved to hit all the right spots! It has 7 insane thrusting modes that will make you forget your own name. A gift that truly keeps on giving.

Here are some other ideas to really heat up your Valentine’s Day!

For more sneak peeks, tips and tricks and other sexy fun, follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter.

7 Insanely Hot Toys To Jingle His Bells

December 21, 2018 by Velvet Box

If you are really looking to really “trim his tree” this holiday season, look no further! These are the toys that all the naughty boys want in their stockings this year.

1. Flip Zero by Tenga

The original Tenga Flip Hole has been one of our hottest sellers since it’s debut. One feel of the super textured sleeve will have his heart racing. Not to mention it’s an ability for him to control the pressure and tightness. Don’t be fooled as these aren’t just for his benefit. The Tenga Zero much like some other male masturbation sleeves can also be used as a stamina trainer to train them to last longer all while feeling incredible! Just make sure to grab him some stimulating water-based lube and don’t forget the powder to keep the sleeve super soft!

2. Ultimate P-Spot Milker by Pipedream

A perfectly shaped tip that moves and rocks back and forth to stroke the prostate is just the tip (no pun intended) of what this toy has to offer. It also has a powerful motor and 9 different vibration functions to really touch give your man that full body orgasm he’s been hoping for. To top it all off it’s rechargeable so no need to buy batteries. This can also be used for g-spot!

Pro Tip: Pair this with any of the Wicked Jelle lubes for a slip like no other.

3. Doggie Style Strap by Sportsheets

Doggie Style Strap by Sportsheets velvet box dfw fort worth texas

Help him hit all the right spots this Christmas season with this awesome accessory. Not only is the Doggie Strap amazing for him but it is amazing for women too! The soft comfortable strap adds pressure to the lower abdomen making you feel tighter and lifting your hips and making that elusive g-spot easier to hit.

4. Vacuum Twist Suckers by CalEx

CalEx Vacuum Twist Nipple Suckers For Men Velvet Box DFW

I know what you’re going to say, “But Grace this is a list for toys for him.”. It is an all too common misconception that only women like their nipples played with. This is categorically untrue! Nipple play is for everyone! These vacuum style nipple stimulators give the feeling of suction that can range from normal to intense with just a little twist.

5. On Power Glide by Sensuva

On Power Glide by Sensuva Available at Velvet Box Fort Worth Texas Lewisville Texas West Plano Texas

The geniuses over at Sensuva have done it again. They have taken On that we women love so much and have made something for the men in our lives. On Power Glide is a cream that, when applied, increases girth, makes him harder and maximizes satisfaction, all by increasing blood flow. A little goes a long way, so stroke a little on and feel the tingle, buzzy, thickening goodness! Perfect for use alone or with a partner.

6. The Magic Wand by Hitachi

What, you thought the Magic Wand was exclusively for women’s pleasure? It’s not! Don’t get us wrong is for that too, but the Cadillac of sex toy has its place in everyone’s collection. Just put this under the head of his penis and turn it on low, slowly work your way to the speed and pattern that makes him twitch.

7. Gun Oil Lube

Gun Oil lubricant for men available at velvet box dfw fort worth texas west plano texas lewisville texas

A lube with a cult following? Yep, that’s Gun Oil. This impossibly slick silicone lube has added Vitamin E and Aloe Vera. It is ultra-concentrated and water resistant so it won’t break down or dry out. While not compatible with silicone sex toys, this is perfect for masturbation or play with glass toys.

Why not wrap yourself for Christmas? Our sexy new lingerie in every size will have his heart racing, palms sweating and pulse quickening. Especially when you pair yourself with any one of the gifts above.

These toys will keep him (and you) pleased and happy all year. So if it’s for Christmas, his birthday, national Steak and Blow Job Day (yep that’s a real thing) or just a Tuesday, treat him to something a little extra sentillating and give him the gift of pleasure.

For more sneak peeks, tips and tricks and other sexy fun, follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter.

10 Staff Favorites Under $100

August 8, 2018 by Velvet Box

Generally speaking, with sex toys, the phrase ‘You get what you pay for.’ is applicable. That $10 bullet from china that you got online, will most likely die at the most inopportune time, if it worked at all. The world of adult toys can be overwhelming. What works? What doesn’t? Were those reviews paid for? Is it a knock-off? Why is that vibrator $400!? These are all valid doubts you may have when purchasing a toy online. And while we do have several favorites in the $100-$200 range, there are quite a few new staff favorites that are well under the $100 mark. So, we narrowed it down to 10 of our staff’s favorite affordable hidden gems. This way you can get one, or build an entire bed side collection without breaking the bank.

1. Exposed Bullet $49.99 – Is it just me or do these look like the prettiest shades of lipstick that ever existed? I admit, that it was the sole reason I initially wanted to test one. However, when I took it out of the box I was truly in shock. The power was insane, even on the low setting! It truly out powers some of the higher end bullets on the market.

2. Jimmy Jane Massage Candles $29.99 – A candle that melts in to warm massage oil, that doesn’t leave you feeling sticky and gross. 2 years ago I wrote this article on these babies and our customers’ obsession with them. That obsession has only grown! Pro Tip – Let this burn while you’re in the shower and pour it on freshly shaven areas for an amazing moisturizer!

3. Pocket Pulse $89.99 – A powerful dual motored pocket stroker and the portable version of the world’s first Guybrator. The oscillating discs, give a completely unique experience unlike any other men’s toys on the market. Make waves when you try it under water.

4. Under-bed Restraint Kit $64.99 – No need to damage a bed post or put in a red room to be tied up with this kit. The weight of the mattress holds these straps in place for some incredible fun. This kit includes two pair of ankle/wrist cuffs and can be tucked under the mattress when not in use. This is the most versatile thing on the list, as this enhances the experience of everything else. Pro Tip – Pair this with a blindfold and a massage candle for an insanely good time.

5. Womanizer Starlet $89.99 – Will there ever be a time when we are not raving about the Womanizer toys? Probably not. These toys changed the game and we talked all about that here and here. The Starlet is the Womanizer Pro’s sweet little sister. She only has 4 functions instead of 11 and fits right in the palm of your hand. Available in 3 colors this baby is perfect to throw in your bag for a sleepover.

6. BlewIt! $74.99 – The first version of this baby sold out so fast it made our heads spin. So of course when version 2 came out, with more intense suction and faster drying time, we ordered triple the amount and sold out again. This affordable male masturbator is beautiful on the outside and an intense blow job party on the inside. You can also use your Blewit! as a phenomenal stamina trainer, to help you learn to last longer.

7. Red Hot Spark $79.99 – I mean… did you see that video? What else can I say about this? There are several insanely powerful flickering modes to drive you over the edge again and again. Furthermore, it makes a fantastic bathtub toy, as it is completely submergible.

8. Mini Plug $54.99 – $89.99 – The Mini Plug is a perfectly petite, yet super powerful anal plug, great for beginners and experts a like. It has 20 vibrating functions and a rocker base that fits snuggly between the cheeks. Available with remote so that you can change the setting without having to be an expert level yoga master.

9. My Secret Remote Controlled Vibrating Panty $74.99 – First of all, as powerful as this little guy is, whatever the secret is, it won’t be staying secret much longer. Super-powered and remote controlled with a discreet ring style controller, it’s sure to make your night out a lot more interesting. If worn to the movies, I recommend pairing with a ball gag to muffle the moans as not to disrupt other movie goers. Screaming 0 has an entire line of incredible rechargeable yet affordable toys.

10. Pivot $99.99 – Screeching in right under that $100 mark, is the Pivot by We-Vibe. Frankly, with it’s super rumbly motor, recharge-ability and app capability that lets you control it near or far, we are surprised it was affordable enough to make this list at all. This has been highly reviewed by several staff members and their partners. Finally, our customers are also a huge fan of the app’s ability to control the toy even from a separate country.

This is a small sampling of the amazing and affordable toy options here at Velvet Box. Come in and check out some of the other staff favorites. Pick them up, feel them and take few home. Start a sexy time kit, or just re-vamp a stale one. Whatever spice your looking for, we’ve got something for you.

Be sure to follow us on our social media for more toy updates, sex tips, hilarious shenanigans and surprises! Twitter, Instagram & Facebook.

June’s New & Naughty

June 19, 2018 by Velvet Box

Its June in Texas and with that brings some hot hot heat. So we thought we would stick with that theme and bring you some hot hot new items. I narrowed it down to these four stand out items. You will not be disappointed if you get one or all four.

Let’s start this off with something delicious and yummy. Handi Pop by Sensuva is a perfect for giving him an extra slippery rub down. Because all the flavors taste like dessert, you can and should lick it like your favorite lollipop.

Guys is you are looking to treat your self, might I suggest the Zeppelin by Zolo? With it’s spinning beads, massaging texture, soft lips and sleek design the Zeppelin is already flying off the shelves and shows no sign of slowing down.

You’ve heard of the original Come Hither Rabbit right? NO? Here go read this, I’ll wait. *Whistles* If you read that, then you know that this toy does what we have been trying to get men to do for years, it moves in a come hither motion. So as the name suggests this is just a larger version of the same glorious thing.

Next we are bringing back an oldie but a goodie. First of all this lubricant maybe one of the most popular lubes on the market for male masturbation and male masturbation toys. This lube provides a layer of slickness second to none and therefore is the perfect way to lubricate your weapon. (wink wink)

If you want more sneak peeks check us out on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.