By Michelle Janson, PhD
Editor’s Note: Please be advised the following invention story contains contents of a sexual nature that some may find offensive and is not recommended for those under 18 years old.
Luxurity Panties
Luxurity panties are the first functional lingerie garment of their kind that simultaneously support sexual expression and sexual health of all individuals when engaging in oral sex. Perspectives on sexuality and gender equality are shifting in our society and there isn’t a better time for women to proactively take control of their pleasure. Sexy, subtle, convenient, and affordable, Luxurity’s have you covered when and where you need it most.
We at InventionStories.com offer to share the journey the inventor goes on since having the idea and Michelle Janson, PhD has taken us up on our offer. Click here if you are an inventor who would like to share your story. The following are her answers to questions we offer inventors to use as a guide:
What kind of child were you and did you enjoy figuring out how things work?
I was a pretty inquisitive child, as were all of my siblings. We were raised with the mindset that asking questions was a good thing and there was always more to learn and more understanding to gain. I also would fall under the category of “instigator” as I had a knack for finding creative ways to bug my siblings. They would confirm this as well 🙂
Have you invented before?
In the fifth grade, I “created” a squeezable toothbrush for a class project, only to later find out that the whole “market research” step was vital as there was a similar product already available. About 4 years ago, we had a provisional on file for a basic container with a wire infrastructure that you could remold into many different shapes to meet various needs.
Our newest invention is Luxurity panties. Luxuritys are a disposable undergarment worn by females to provide protection between partners during oral sex. We hope this product can make a difference in the lives of many by providing empowerment, education, protection, and simply a cute pair of panties to wear. I will also note that this is a product we didn’t expect to develop, however, when you see a problem and can possibly offer a solution, you cannot sit idle. We have a much greater ability to make a difference in the world than what we often think.
How did you come up with the Luxurity Panties name?
We originally called the product LuxeLyx, but feedback from testers indicated that was too much of a mouthful (no pun intended.) That name also had more of a pornographic feel to some consumers, so we went back to the drawing board and came up with Luxurity: Luxurious Security for Sensual Pleasure.
What gave you the idea for Luxurity Panties and why did you act?
The catalyst for the product came after a close family member was diagnosed with head and neck cancer. After many tests, the physicians explained that the cancer was more than likely caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection (STI), that was transmitted during unprotected oral sex. Following this news, I began researching what protective options were currently available to consumers when engaging in oral sexual activity. My search results were very sparse to say the least. Even our own Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one of the most reputable health education sources, suggested only two options:
1) Use an oral dam (a super thin sheet of latex) and
2) Cut up a condom to make it into an oral dam.
While we do support both of these options, I knew we could do better. A simple, inexpensive, and aesthetically-appealing item needed to be made to empower all parties to protect themselves and their partner(s).
In our research for products, we also learned about the ever-increasing rates of STI transmission. Did you know that 1 in every 2 sexually active people will contract an STI by the age of 25? Or that 20 million new cases of STI transmission occur annually? These statistics were incredibly alarming, and thus, we had to act.
How was the prototype process?
The prototyping process involved much gathering of various materials, endless trials, failures, frustration, and yet, many successes. It also came with a lot of teamwork which brought together many wonderful minds. Persistence was the name of the game as we worked to revamp and redesign the product to where it is now.
How did you decide on what size color etc. to make Luxurity Panties?
Being that women come in many beautiful sizes and shapes, we are hoping to offer the panties (more so the waistband) in small, medium, and large. The colors of the oral dam are based on its flavor. Pink is strawberry, white is vanilla, and black can be cola or possibly mint.
How was the patent process?
The patent process was smooth since we had connected with a fabulous patent and trademark company. We owe so much to Reichel Stohry LLP. If anyone is looking for expert services in this area, I highly suggest them!
Did you consider entering into a license agreement?
The way the stars align is always fascinating. We are keeping our minds open with the interest that has been expressed and all options are being considered at this time.
For those who read your story and want to find you:
We’d love to have you visit us! Our website is www.iamluxurity.com. You can also find us via our social media accounts on Twitter (@iamluxurity), Instagram (luxeventuresusa), and Facebook (@iamluxurity). Additionally, we are launching our Kickstarter campaign on Saturday, March 9th, 2019 to raise funds for the next steps of product development. If you are interested in learning more or possibly joining us in this campaign by either sharing our information or providing financial support, we’d love to have you aboard!
What is your marketing strategy (coupon codes)?
Currently the panties are marked at $12.99 on our website. However, we aim to make them available and affordable for all, so we plan to decrease the price to $9.99 with a coupon code once we begin selling them. In the future, we hope to continue dropping the price with the hopes that we can, one day charge the same price as a condom. Equality is a beautiful thing.
How do you find your work life balance?
I’ll say that balance is attributed to a fine mix of dark chocolate and pretzel consumption, running, and forever seeking out the much-respected wisdom and love of my fabulous family, friends, colleagues, and mentors. On any day, that balance may be skewed one direction or another 🙂
What has been your biggest obstacle for Luxurity Panties and how have you overcome it?
Our biggest obstacle has arisen in the fact that we are not only trying to sell a product, we are trying to advance a global mentality and perspective on sexuality. It is wonderful that we have many condom varieties on the shelves of most every gas station and convenience store, but why don’t we have the same options for females? With the topic of gender equality sitting at the forefront of many discussions as well as the much-deserved acceptance of all sexual orientations, now is the time for this product to make waves. Additionally, information on STI transmission is out there, but we need to continue normalizing the conversation. Many hard-working people and organizations dedicate their lives to keeping people healthy and providing education on sexual health, and this product and our efforts to support that education are worth every pushback we receive.
What advice would you give to those interested in inventing?
This is a good, but tough question as there is so much excellent advice out there. I would suggest two things:
- Be diligent in protecting yourself and your business, but you have to trust people. I am a firm believer that good business (and most all of life, really) is built upon relationships, so take the time to connect with people and allow that trust to grow. Businesses can flourish and they can fail, but if new, valuable relationships have been established in the process, that success should be celebrated.
- As an entrepreneur, you are ultimately the driver of your goals, your visions, your company. No one is making decisions for you and no one will make things happen for you. You have to move you forward…even if just a baby step. At some point, you simply have to move, assess, and possibly move another direction if needed, but always keep moving forward. Allow others to help you in this process and make sure you’re helping other people in return. Great learning and outcomes can come from this.
Thank you so very much for your interest in us. We truly appreciate you spending your quality time learning about our story. Please don’t hesitate to reach out at any time! We can be reached at 765-427-6937 or luxeventuresusa@gmail.com.
Michelle Janson, PhD
Luxe Ventures LLC
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