This was my 10th Black Rose event (there was none in 2005). It’s special for many reasons. Black Rose was the first big conference I taught at in 2000. Also, Black Rose 1999 is where I met my life partner. Yes, for those counting, that means this was our 10th anniversary.

You may now make with the “Awwwwwww”s.

We celebrated in style – there was dancing, flogging (he taught the 101 and 201 classes), shopping (new whip from Victor Tella) , rope suspensions (courtesy of the Ninja Sex Poodle and Rodin of Love, Graydancer), and yes, of course, sex. (Well, in our room. This is a non-public sex event).

This year, I taught 3 classes – 2 classes on my own, and one class with my partner and Scott from Big Head Studio.

The Classes were as follows:

Beyond Pillow Talk: Verbal Aftercare for Scene and Sex

To me, this is the most important class that I teach. You can find book loads of information on kink, sex, and kinky sex, but there are so few resources out there on what to do when it is all done. I’ve seen so many tings go wrong after scene and sex that could have been avoided with just a little more attention to aftercare, that I’ve become an “Aftercare Evangelist.”

The way I teach aftercare goes beyond the typical first aide, “cuddle in a blanket for a few minutes” based aftercare class, and delves into the psychological and physiological reasons as to why aftercare is important. From there, we get into how to communicate during aftercare in order to maximize the experience as a positive one.  This is one class that I don’t think can be taught enough.

Titles, Labels, & Scene Names

This class is a facilitated discussion about language and identity. Specifically the language we use to describe ourselves and others, and how to use them so you project the identity that you want to be associated with. Participants in this past class brought to light the concept of “rebranding” oneself in order to get more of the type of play you are interested in.

Laugh or Else: Humor in the Scene

This is the class that was done with my partner and “Big Head” Scott. The title is pretty self explanatory. Endorphins – those fun brain chemicals that people get kinky in order to get high on, can also be obtained from laughter. The play partners that laugh together, stay together.We went over different types of humor, different ways it can be incorporated in a scene (as well as aftercare).

This class at BR09 was standing room (or sitting on the floor room) only. We had a lot of audience participation to the point that my abs were sore from all the laughing. The class was afternoon on a Sunday, when everyone is a little crispy around the edges from the full weekend of STUFF, and personally, I think it was the perfect time for it. It let everyone in the room, presenters included, recharge their batteries with the power of laughter.

Any of these classes seem interesting to you? Want to have us come present them to your group?

Then send me an email at margoeve @ gmail . com