Make My Birthday AMAZING!

There’s nothing like a milestone birthday to prompt a taking stock of life: what you’ve done, what you’re doing, what’s ahead. I’ve been exploring the BDSM scene for nearly ten years, most of those years as a professional dominant. It’s been an incredibly fulfilling experience being able to play and connect so positively with so many exceptional people. I’m tremendously proud of the practice I’ve built, the reputation I’ve earned, and the relationships I have with my play partners.

There are no shortcuts in this business though — well, not MY business. Over the years, I’ve devoted myself to learning as much as possible about the craft of BDSM from some of the most well-regarded practitioners. I’ve attended numerous conferences, workshops, and public classes, and hosted private tutorials for myself as well as the prodomme community. When I started Salon d’Orleans in 2007, I made sure to invest in a space that would afford my play partners’ convenience, safety, and privacy as well as an environment that reflected the commitment, sophistication, and sanctity of what took place inside. I also made a point to devote my practice to a select few so that I could give each play partner a connected, personal, meaningful experience rather than a by-the-numbers routine that merely scratches an itch instead of satisfying a very real need.

In the “taking stock,” however, one of the things I’m increasingly aware of is how costly it is to maintain my business. I can’t really “work harder” — I’m at near-capacity already. I’ve stopped buying equipment (though some may argue I could have done that a year or two ago) and found other ways to reduce some of my expenses. Since my previous renter retired the past Spring, I’ve been looking for a domme to share my studio with and have even tried taking on an apprentice but neither option has come to fruition.

I’ve always said that part of why I’ve been able to create the practice I have is because I’ve had other options. I had an active, successful career in another field when I started domming and have maintained a sideline gig all along that will be my career once I retire. In other words, I do this because I want to. But it’s hard to keep making the choice to continue doing this work if it means sacrificing my own needs and desires so that I can fulfill yours.

Writing this wish list is much harder than you might have expected. It’s really hard for me to ask for anything — especially when it’s just for me.  In the past, when I’ve posted wishlists for my birthday, I’ve always listed gear or suggested you book a session because you’d get something out of it, too. But this is a big birthday, it means a LOT to me, and it’s only happening once. So I knew I wanted to ask strictly for personal gifts and as I started to think about the things I wanted, I felt frustrated that there were so many things I really, really want that I can’t afford to get for myself.

So here’s your big chance to not just say “anything” but mean it.  If there’s something on it that you’d like me to have but you can’t quite foot the entire bill, you’re more than welcome to make a discreet donation via PayPal to (MTO at TroyOrleans dotcom) for an amount that’s accessible to you. Needless to say, those of you who step up will benefit in a multitude of ways from my appreciation. (And if you opt for #1 or #2, I’ll give you two free ONEs in 2011. Ask me about the fine print.)

Thank you for your thoughtful consideration. I’m counting on y’all.

1) Lasik Surgery. You want to literally change my life? I’ve worn glasses or contacts since I was 8 years old. Technology has caught up with my special needs eyes and I’ve finally been approved for the procedure. I will send you a profound and heartfelt “Thank you” every time I open my eyes to see my bedside clock without putting on my glasses first. Please contact me directly for details.

2) A New Vespa LX150ie with Top Case. In Bronze. (That’s the idea, though I’d be quite happy with a pre-owned model with the right specs) One of my ‘things’ when I travel is to rent a Vespa to see the city and I’ve been wanting to own one in NYC for years. Since I blew out my knee, it appears my skiing days may be over. A girl has to get her thrills, and what better way than a Vespa. It’s sexy, transporting, and useful!

3) A 12- or 24-pack of sessions with an Equinox Tier I personal trainer. Give to Troy Orleans. My membership at Equinox began as a gift but now it’s a part of my life. I love going to the gym and could really use a trainer to help me fine-tune my workouts so that they’re more effective. Who doesn’t want a stronger, fitter, hotter MTO?

4) Frequent Flier miles or flight certificate. You know I love to travel. My preferred airline is USAir, but I’ll take anything that flies out of LGA or JFK. I’ve been itching to get back to London for another visit to my friends at Fetters. Other wishtrips: Barcelona, Morocco, Vietnam.

5) Anything from my Amazon Birthday Wish List.