What are Munches and Sloshes?

A "Munch" is nothing more than a social gathering in a public space, normally at a restaurant. We get the word "Munch" from our tradition of eating together. A "Slosh" is just a term we use for another type of social event that usually revolves around drinking in a bar atmosphere.

Are Munches beginner-friendly?

None of our events require any knowledge or experience whatsoever. Most people don't know much about their own place in all of this when they come to their first Munch, and that's perfectly great! We are merely here to provide a space where fellowship among people of similar interests can flourish.

Can I just show up unannounced, or do I need to RSVP?

There is no formal RSVP process, and we never really know how many people will be at an event until we get there and see who shows up. Very rarely does Louisville Munch produce an event that requires an RSVP, and it will be very clear in the event title or description. So yes, just show up unannounced!

Is there a dress code at Louisville Munch?

No, there is no specific dress code. Wear what you would normally wear to a restaurant or coffee shop. It's OK to spiff up a bit if you like, but being comfortable in your surroundings is important. Over-the-top fetishwear is frowned upon, as it can cause a spectacle for other non-kinky patrons of the establishment and can be indiscreet for the rest of our attendees. Don't overthink it. Come as you are, and just be yourself!

Will there be demonstrations or kink activities at the Louisville Munch?

No. Louisville Munch is for socializing, and we meet in public spaces like restaurants, bars, coffee shops, etc. Even if we do have a private area of a venue all to ourselves, we keep our activities "vanilla", or that is to say, not kinky.

Are Munches discreet?

This world still has an unfortunate bias and misunderstanding about practitioners of Kink. Our community has a collective ethos with regards to discretion; keeping others' involvement with the group private, and expecting the same in return from you. "Outing" someone in their private lives is one of the most serious infractions one could commit in our community, and it's one of the few things that will get you permanently banned from the Louisville Munch.

Should I use a "scene name" or do I have to use my real name?

That is entirely up to you. Most of us use our given names, but everyone at the Louisville Munch has wildly varied considerations for discretion. Introduce yourself with a screen name or alias, and we will gladly call you by that name if you prefer.

How much does it cost to attend?

Louisville Munches are always free to attend. The only cost you are responsible for is whatever refreshments you have at the venue. While it is OK to come to a Munch without patronizing the establishment, we do encourage everyone to support the local businesses that provide a space for us to gather, and we always tip our servers.

Can I bring a guest or wingman?

Absolutely! Bring an understanding friend, even if they aren't kinky. Just please make sure that they have the same understandings about boundaries and discretion that we hold dear in our community.

Will I find a date or a play partner at a Munch?

If the purpose of your visit is to find a date or play partner when you start attending Louisville Munches, I'm afraid you're going walk away disappointed. Our only purpose for gathering is for fellowship with like-minded people, and while it's possible that you may end up finding a special someone, you need to understand that our relationships don't happen any differently or any more quickly than relationships in other communities. In fact, they often take longer to cultivate than other types of relationships by virtue of the trust and negotiation required. If your purpose is to find a partner, do yourself a favor and let that go at the door. Meet everyone, be yourself, and have a good time without feeling or providing any undue pressure or attention.

Is it OK to talk about "vanilla" topics at a Munch, or is it all Kink-oriented?

You may be surprised to find that out that the vast majority of the conversations we have at the Louisville Munch have nothing to do with Kink. That doesn't mean that Kink topics are not allowed or taboo, but always be mindful of other people in the venue that might find those conversations inappropriate or unwanted (the servers and employees, nearby patrons, children, etc.)

How do I know which table is the Munch when I get there?

Sometimes it's very easy! Just look for the table at the restaurant or coffee shop with a lot of people having a really good time. If you're not sure, ask one of the employees at the venue for "the group" or "the Munch" or "the monthly social" and they'll show you to our area where we can welcome you in.

What if I see someone I know at a Munch?

Well, that might be a little awkward, but there is no reason for it to be so. Remember, if they're at the Munch, then they're also interested in kink. Also remember our social contract regarding discretion. You don't talk about having seen them there, and they don't talk about having seen you there. You might even find that you have a good laugh over it and something new to bond over!

Can I vet potential play partners at a Munch?

Anonymous or open feedback can help. Absolutely! In fact, this may be one of the greatest extra perks of being a Munch-goer. Even though we don't have a formal vetting process for attendees, you can feel free to ask around about other peoples' experiences with a specific person, and they will give you their honest impressions. If you met someone online and know very little about them, meeting at a public space with a group of other kinky people is the safest way to get to know each other, observe them and how they interact with people, and get to know them in a much safer environment than at a private space alone together.