Joshua Simpson
Joshua Simpson
Occupation: Business Owner of DrawYouClose
Location: Raymond, Maine, United States
The Sex In My Business: I am a hopeless romantic with a kinky side, so in my business selling sex toys and adult props, I focus on relationships. I want to bring people together with my products in a trusting, safe, and consensual environment. Whatever dynamic two people have in their relationship, I want to help them grow it, sexual or otherwise.
A Typical Day: I work as a full-time nurse and run DrawYouClose (DYC) on the side. When I am working on DYC, I start by looking over the website, processing and shipping any orders that have come in. I am always looking to find new ways to make the business grow, so I upgrade the website whenever I can. Most of the time, I work on trying to improve my business and myself to keep up with the amazing talent in the industry.
The Best Part: My favorite part of this job is meeting people from all walks of life and from all over the world — especially at shows and conventions. People come up to me and say, “I remember you from last year!” It feels good knowing that people remember me and my products.
The Worst Part: My least favorite part of the job has been starting this company from the ground up. I struggle every day with selecting what shows and conventions to attend. As a newcomer in the industry, I have to compete with large companies that have investors and deep pockets. It can be a difficult market to gain recognition in.
How I Got Here: I got into this line of work after spending over 400 dollars on a small bag of restraints and toys. Within two weeks, half of them were broken. I decided that I could build higher-quality items on my own for a lower price.
What Society Thinks: I could not have this company without the support of my family. My sister is my business partner, and my mom helps package boxes and rose petals. My dad and I make custom furniture and paddles, and my girlfriend and I will work on door hangers, massage oils, and everything else to prepare for shows and conventions. It is a family business, and I love having their help. As for current social attitudes, they don’t bother me much. I am who I am, and I’m not going to change my life to become “normal”. I love the industry and all it involves.
When I’m Not At Work: I love skiing and spending time outside with my son, especially watching him play sports — he is amazing. When I am not spending time with my son, I enjoy relaxing with my dog.
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Published in Issue VII: Sports