The Sex Toy Gift Box: How to Give One Without Anyone Blushing

Giving a sex toy as a present can feel like a lot. Get it right and it's the most thoughtful gift of the year. Get it wrong and someone's opening it in front of their gran.

A gift box makes it much easier. Here's how to choose one, how to give it, and why it's also a very good present to buy yourself.

Why a gift box beats a toy on its own

A toy on its own can feel a bit clinical, like handing someone a gadget. A gift box turns it into an evening. It says "have a night that's all about you", which is a much nicer thing to say.

A good box should have:

• A toy that looks lovely. Something they'd be happy to see on a nightstand, not something to bury in a sock drawer.
• Something to set the mood. A candle, some music, something for the senses.
• Somewhere to keep it. A pouch that keeps everything clean and private.
• Plain packaging. So the surprise is theirs alone.

How to choose the right one

Think about the person, not the toy. Are they bright, playful and up for a laugh? Or do they love a slow, candlelit evening and a long bath?

For the playful one: Secret Desire is sweet, flirty and a little bit naughty. It stars Main Squeeze, a palm-sized lemon that's zesty on the outside and anything but sour.

For the one who likes to take their time: Midnight Temptation is slow, deep and unhurried. It stars Petal Pusher, a rose wand that looks like it came from a florist.

Both boxes come with a satin eye mask, a rose wax play candle, a satin pouch and a ritual card, so the whole evening is planned for them.

How to give it gracefully

• Know your audience. A partner, a best friend with a good sense of humour, a sister you tell everything: yes. Your manager in the office Secret Santa: no.
• Give it privately. This isn't one for the family present-opening session. Hand it over when it's just the two of you, or slip it into their bag with a note.
• Add a card. Keep it light. "You deserve a night off" says it all.
• Let it be theirs. No follow-up questions needed.

Giving it on Christmas Day?

Orders open on 20 December, which is close to the big day. If you want something to unwrap on the morning, write a card that says "something wicked is on its way" and let the box follow. A present that keeps going after Christmas is no bad thing.

Or buy it for yourself

Honestly, the best person to give a gift box to might be you. December is busy and January is long. A night in with a candle, an eye mask and no plans at all is a very good use of an evening, entirely on your terms.

Both boxes are £20 off at launch: Secret Desire is £59.99 and Midnight Temptation is £69.99, with free discreet delivery on every order. Join the waitlist to hear the moment orders open, and you'll be in the draw to win a free box.