Sapphic: Doms & Subs

Here is the recap of the Sapphic: Doms & Subs JA party.

What do you do on your Saturdays? Usually, I am the one to be on my couch, eating the leftover dinner from the week. Yet, on the Saturday of the Sapphic: Doms & Subs, in a location frequently glanced at but never ventured, my waist swayed to the irresistible rhythm of Kes’ “Hello.” Sapphic parties, which debuted in the summer of 2022, have officially gained the honorary title of being the only party I go to annually. However, just in case you read our previous blog on the launch of their event and are curious about what was different this year, allow me to tell you about the changes and highlights!

Disclaimer: This is about the Sapphic: Doms & Subs Event held in May 2023. Additionally, to prioritise the safety and privacy of all individuals who attended and to ensure the event's secure and welcoming atmosphere, certain essential aspects will remain undisclosed.

If you’re anything like me and you love a good theme, then you'll understand the surge of excitement that rushed through me when the event flyers were released. As the imagery of a leather mask complemented by a matching whip was in the background with the accompanying text “Sapphic: Subs & Doms”, I knew that this was an event I couldn’t miss. However, upon attempting to get my tickets, I realised that there were several changes within the purchasing and RSVP processes.

For presold tickets, payment could have been conveniently made through six designated “ Sapphic Ambassadors” or at the popular Mexican restaurant, Chilitos. Additionally, group discounts were introduced. I assumed these changes were done to ensure a smoother ticketing process for attendees who came alone or in groups. However, I wondered if it would pose an issue for individuals attending from different parishes and how the event planners overcame that obstacle. Regardless, one thing that stayed consistent was the RSVP process. The RSVP process requires all participants to submit their responses online, regardless of whether they are prepaying or planning to attend without advance payment. Many queer organisations utilise this RSVP system to ensure that guests gain access to the exclusive event location while remaining safe. Despite the alterations, both encounters were thoroughly delightful. I received my ticket through an ambassador, who made the experience very pleasant, which I believe highlighted the party’s welcoming atmosphere. As well as, the RSVP process was quick and had a user-friendly platform that made securing my spot hassle-free.

During the promotional period, event planners dropped what to wear guides as well as how to choose the right colour armbands.

What’s Your Flavour?

🍓 (Red)- In a Relationship

🍍(Yellow) - It’s Complicated

🥝(Green) - Single

🍑 (Orange) - DTF

Yet, on the day, all emails were received several hours before the event, telling the attendees where the party was. So, when 9 p.m. came around, I was thoroughly excited, with my outfit pressed and ready and my ticket in hand.

Upon arrival at the location, the party was in full effect, with music blasting before you reached the ticket booth. The night was looking extremely positive! Once, you go through the door, you are stopped by someone awaiting to validate your ticket before ushering you towards another attendant, who presented your hand band, marking the commencement of an unforgettable journey into the heart of the event.

Once inside the event, it was time to find somewhere to settle for the night. The venue was dimly lit, which could be to keep eventgoers private or convey an intimate ambience. However, it didn't take long to notice a significant difference - compared to previous ones, this one had a far larger turnout. The room was packed, and if someone didn’t have a drink, they were either smiling or dancing. Many of the individuals had on some of the most fabulous outfits, with my eyes capturing some corsets, leather belts, ropes, fishnets, and multiple coloured harnesses. With such a turnout, it was a good thing that this event had a bar and a place to eat if you got hungry.

In addition to many people being well-dressed, the event featured an impressive lineup of DJs, with one of my favourites being DJ Vicky Analog. The night had tunes that spanned genres and generations, creating an infectious mix of beats that kept the dance floor alive and pulsating all night long (some of y’all were misbehaving in the best way!). From classic LGBTQ+ anthems to the latest chart-toppers, the music resonated with everyone.

Overall, the event was an amazing one. I often view the kink and queer communities as often connected, and it felt like this event was paying homage to that experience as well as highlighting a space for sapphics to explore their kinkier side of fashion in a safe environment. And it felt like for one night, anyone, whether in love, in lust, or just there having the best time of their lives, was free. And, under the mesmerising glow of illuminated country names, you start to see womxn come together, screaming at the top of their voices and dancing to great music in a space that feels like they have a place in this big world.