Event Description:

Cuddle Party is a workshop and platonic cuddling event centering on embodied consent, clear communication, boundary setting, and honoring others’ boundaries. Learn more here.

While all are welcome to attend, QT Cuddle Parties are geared towards serving the Queer/Trans/2SLGBTQIA+ community. We will not tolerate homophobia, transphobia, racism, or any other form of harassment or discrimination, and ask that all in attendance be kind and respectful to everyone at the event.

I am currently a pursuing certification as a facilitator, so at the end of this event, there will be an review party survey for feedback.

Event Schedule:

A Cuddle Party lasts for about 3.5 hours:

Doors will open at 6 p.m.

6 - 6:15 pm: Arrive, check-in, and change into pajamas or other clothes suitable for cuddling if needed.

6:15 - 7:15 pm: The Welcome Circle. This is the workshop portion of the event in which we will discuss and practice setting boundaries, communicating wants, and respecting people's “no.” Attendees MUST be present for the entirety of the welcome circle to participate. To maintain a safe container, if you are not here by 6:15 pm. and have not contacted us, you will not be able to participate.

7:15 - 9:15 pm: Freestyle cuddle time! This is an opportunity to practice the skills we’ve gone over by cuddling and connecting with others. There is no requirement that you touch other people, so feel free to spend this time doing whatever feels best for you.

9:15 - 9:30 pm: Closing circle, and goodbyes. We will wrap up the event by sharing any final thoughts and offering one last group hug for those who would like to be a part of it.

Cuddle Party Rules:

[Clothes] stay on the whole time.
You don’t have to touch anyone at a cuddle party, ever.
You must ask permission and receive a verbal YES before you touch anyone. (Be as specific in your request as you can.)
If you’re a yes, say YES. If you’re a no, say NO.
If you’re a maybe, say NO.
You are encouraged to change your mind.
Respect your relationship agreements and communicate with your partner.
Get your Facilitator or the Assistant if you have a question or concern or need assistance with anything during the event.
Tears and laughter are both welcome.
Respect people’s privacy
Keep the Cuddle space tidy.

After we begin the Welcome Circle, no one may enter the event. This guideline allows for participants’ comfort and safety as everyone in attendance will be on the same page about consent and honoring boundaries.

What to Wear: Pajamas or other comfortable clothes suitable for platonic cuddling; as this is a non-sexual event, please wear clothing that would be appropriate for a school pajama party (minimum of a tanktop that covers midriff and long shorts). We also ask that you do not wear perfumes, cologne, or other heavily scented products, as these can be overstimulating, especially in close quarters with others.

What To Bring: This is a sober event; no alcohol or mind-altering substances will be allowed. If you arrive inebriated (drunk/high/under the influence), you will be asked to leave. Non-alcoholic drinks and allergen-friendly snacks are welcome. A favorite pillow or stuffed animal if you like. Otherwise, just bring yourself :)

COVID-19 Protocol: Masks are recommended but not required. I will have masks available if you do not have one and would like one. If you have any of the symptoms listed below, contact me before the start of the event to be refunded or to have your ticket go towards a future event.

fever or chills
cough
shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
fatigue
muscle or body aches
headache
new loss of taste or smell
sore throat
congestion or runny nose
diarrhea
nausea or vomiting

Accessibility Information: My cuddle space in Poway is on the second floor and requires the use of stairs. Feel free to email me at cuddlecaresandiego@gmail.com with any questions about accessibility (or any other questions you may have) or to make accommodation requests as needed.