From BuzzFeed · · 1m 50s
Cuddle Party Strangers
A writer tries a stranger cuddle party in NYC but finds it awkward and unfulfilling.
In brief
A writer tries a stranger cuddle party in NYC but finds it awkward and unfulfilling. Catherine Hiller attended a NYC cuddle party where she felt isolated despite expectations of connection. Originally reported by BuzzFeed.
Cuddle Party Intro
Catherine Hiller bought a NYC cuddle party ticket to experience consensual non-sexual touch with strangers.
Cuddle Party Rules
The event required verbal consent, non-sexual touch, and was drug and alcohol free for participants 18+.
Cuddling Definition
Cuddling involves hugging, embracing, nestling, and stroking without sexual intent.
Cuddling Workshop
A one-hour consent workshop taught participants to request and refuse cuddles with verbal permission.
Venue Details
The NYC loft venue was crowded, racially diverse, and had a large window with no privacy.
Cuddling Experience
Catherine tried stroking a man’s forearm and caressing a woman’s cheek but felt isolated.
Cuddling Challenges
Many participants were awkwardly chatting instead of cuddling, with no alcohol or drugs present.
German Woman
A German woman shared her dating cards with Catherine, preferring voice calls over internet research.
Cuddling Outcome
Catherine left the party early, feeling unfulfilled despite expectations of connection.
Covid Aftermath
Catherine received a message from the German woman who had caught Covid but no cuddling occurred.
Cuddling Reflection
Catherine felt her expectations of a sensual paradise were unmet by the party experience.
Cuddling Conclusion
Catherine returned home to her husband, finding comfort in his presence without strangers.
Cuddling Lessons
The workshop taught consent skills that could benefit beyond the party experience.
Cuddling Impact
Catherine’s experience showed the gap between expectations and reality in stranger cuddling.
Cuddling Future
Catherine’s experience highlights the need for clear consent and privacy in stranger interactions.
What matters most
Catherine Hiller attended a NYC cuddle party where she felt isolated despite expectations of connection.
