United States

Minneapolis 

Kink

Denaisha

Queer artist and musician on-the-rise Denaisha makes R&B music that appeals to a beautifully diverse audience. Denaisha's lyrics speak to their experiences as a queer person navigating dating, identity and life. Reflecting over Minneapolis, Denaisha says, "A lot of people don’t visit Minneapolis because it isn’t talked about as much... it certainly isn’t New York or LA. It’s snowing more than half the year at times, but everyone here is very close. We all have our own individual styles and everyone makes art with one another!"

Despite the fact that it's not as understood as other American cities, there's a magic to Minneapolis and an underbelly of culture to be explored and enjoyed. From Ethiopian spots to BDSM spaces, there's a lot more to the city than you might expect.

If you're kinky and you like to have your glitz and gadgets, head to Bondesque on lake and Lyndale for your toy and torture needs. They also have very cute kink attire/lingerie and the workers are always very kind, helpful, and open about any questions you might have! My favourite place to go on dates, or for when I just want to treat myself. Plus they always have info on upcoming BDSM events happening in the cities.

If you're new to toys or you just want to educate yourself more on sexuality in general, going to smitten kitten is strongly recommended! I get all my favourite books from here, whether your curious about the connections between sex and astrology, sex with an able bodied or disabled or differently shaped partner, or a first timer, or pretty much anything more, the selection of books here is always my go-to. Not to mention the wide selection of safe, sparky new toys to choose from!

My most frequented metaphysical shop in Minneapolis, I go here for all my cleansing, wishing and manifestation needs. They have crystals, incense, waters, candles and my favourite selection of astrology-related books. And it’s right across the street from Smitten Kitten and Bondesque, so I always get to visit them all on the same day!

My favourite restaurant, and meal in general, is Awaze tibs with a veggie platter and injera from Red Sea. One of those places where the food is good every single time. They never miss.

Bondesque

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