Hello all. Been a bit since we blogged. Going to write on House Parties: what to expect and etiquette for everyone who attends. If you're like us and have been to a fair share of house parties please feel free to add your own perspectives and experiences. If your still kind of new or haven't been to a house party then please read on and feel free to ask questions.

Generally speaking every house party follows a similar format and culture, even in the same city. But one thing is always assumed to be true: always ask first before you act. I will explain in more detail in a bit.

House parties are similar to club experiences but, depending on the size, more intimate because people are sharing a smaller space and have more opportunity to converse and get to know people. They are far less clickish unless it is a party fora small group that always gets together then it might be a little awkward at first. However, we have never had this experience ourselves even though we are initially introverted. Once we settle in it is far more easier to mingle. And those college kids think they know how to party - lol.

Before you go reach out to the host and ask some general questions. Is there a "donation" or fee to cover expenses, is there security/workers to help if something goes wrong, what is the ratio of couples and singles (if that matters to you) and is there any general format to the evening like expectations or planned activities, how many play rooms are private and public, what is policy about about clothing outside. Good party planners will have this posted for their event ahead of time (either event announcement or emailed). Some of this will be posted when you get there, but we have been surprised once or twice about expectations -- all out orgy by 10pm and everyone participates.

In El Paso there use to be a few house parties hosts, but everything ebbs and flows in peoples lives. I know of one (and have attended 2/3) of her parties. Each one was a bit different from pretty low key to like being on a cruise ship and events were on the hour and no playing until after midnight. Generally in El Paso house parties are either no or limited in single men. In Arizona we have been to house parties where single men are allowed but very specific rules are in place and it is still a ratio. There are some parties in other area we went to where LGBTQ are also guest. Again some parties have a bondage room and some don't, some are almost completely a bondage munch or play.

When attending most host or a staff/volunteer will go over the rules, give a tour, and possibly have you sign a waiver. Don't be a dick and follow the rules or chance you'll be kick out and not invited back, or at least not invited back. Here are some rules/etiquette:

• Yes is yes and no is no. That means before you enter a room where people are playing, sharing a play space (a bed, hot tub, etc) and definitely touching. This goes for both men and women. Most women can get away with it but beware it can cause open up further problem due to miss cues.
• When people are talking it is okay to listen and then introduce yourselves in a break of the conservation. I know this is just makes since but you will be surprised how often people barge in on people having a conversation. They may be setting up a play session.
• Don't gawk. Especially men. It is creepy and/or intimidating.
• Some parties will designate private (door closed) and open for watching. Some parties do not want closed doors locked for safety reason. So if you see a door closed don't try to open it.
• Be respectful of open playing. If a couple, or several couples are playing in an open area, that means they like to be watched. But... be respectful with your conversations with others. In other words the woman might like DP but don't point out that she is a anal whore. I mean some women might like dirty talk, but others may not from the peanut galley.
• Men. This one is specifically for you. If there is public play going on and you are allowed to watch, or it is in an open area, keep your dick in your pants. You were not invited to play so don't play with yourselves and don't put your dick in his or her face hoping someone is going to suddenly suck your dick. Again rule 1 - ask at a minimum, but usually those who are playing 3 some or moresome have already worked out who is invited.
• This should have been further up the list, work out limits during chatting or before play. If it dampens the mood, then ask if can do certain acts before you do them while playing. Not every women like anal or wants to be fisted.
• Finally, never ever pull your condom off and continue without one. If your out ask the other guy. You would be surprised, but that has happened to us. And always swap out condoms going between different women and if there is anal play swap condoms going ass to pussy.
• One more - if someone does something you don't like (breaking of party rules etc) let the host or designated staff know immediately. It is better that they resolve the problem then instead of negative talk about the party that could have been resolved. It is a small community and word travels. I don't know a host who doesn't want to make people feel welcome and comfortable. Don't be shy, report it.

I hope you all have fun with you continued adventures in the LS. I hope this was an interesting and informative read.

XOXO - Scott and Suzy