BreathlessOttawa.com

1) I don't know the owner or any current members. How can I become a member?

A: It is preferable for all potential members to be known by someone at Breathless so that we know all of our members are truly interested in alt lifestyle(s) and are not there to cause trouble. When you are enjoying yourself at a Members Only event, rest assured that other members are open-minded and accepting of what we are there for.

2) Why do I have to attend an orientation to become a member?

A: By presenting the same info to every member via the orientation, it is ensured that everyone is on the 'same page', and understands the same rules. As well, this way, every member has the comfort of knowing all members are seriously interested in alt lifestyles.

3) How much is the membership fee?

A: Yearly membership is $30 per person. This fee helps ensure members are truly interested and helps cover administration costs.

4) What info do I have to supply to become a member?

A: Legally, a private club must retain certain info on it's members to prove a membership. We require legal first and last names, a phone number and an email address. We also ask for any alternative or scene name our members use, simply as an indentifier.

Members are also required to read and sign a waiver before receiving their membership. It is understood that anyone using the club space and/or equipment does so at their own risk and is responsible for their own safety.

5) What happens at Members Only events?

A: Only the participants and the event itself can decide that. However, Breathless is a 'sex friendly' or 'sex positive' club, so most of the Members Only events are 'sex on premises'.

6) What's the difference between "Community Centre" and "Members Only" events?

A: Community Centre events are open to the public and are alcohol free. Genital nudity and any sexual act is prohibited although being topless is fine and you can be sure there'll be flirting! Some of these events will be geared to a specific interest group and that will be noted on the calendar listing. Food is generally not included with admission unless otherwise stated. Cold drinks and snacks are always available for purchase at the canteen.

Members Only events are open only to members. For members safety and comfort, security staff is posted at the door to ensure no one can walk in off the street. Regular members may BYOB (guest members may not). Total nudity is welcome and sex is allowed at most Members Only events (check the calendar for those that aren't). Most Members Only events have a small buffet served during the evening and is included in your cover charge. Cold drinks and snacks are always available for purchase at the canteen.

It is usually suggested that an unknown person who is interested in becoming a member make an effort to attend one of the 'community centre' events (those that are open to the public) and become known to the owner and staff of Breathless, as well as other attendees/members. Usually one such visit is enough to convince us you should be allowed membership, but sometimes we ask that you try another public event or two. (we value first impressions and gut instinct!)

If this is impossible, you should try to meet a current member for coffee or other interaction and ask them to vouch for you. (this means they are responsible for your actions while at the club - some people will not vouch for others).

7) Now that I'm a member, can I attend all events?

A: Breathless is very open to you exploring all lifestyles that you are interested in. So feel free to attend any, as long as you are respectful of others at those events and observe the rules. (ie: males may not attend Girls Night).

8) What is the dress code for events?

A: Take a clue from the theme - if it's a fetish or BDSM event, fetish wear is appropriate (ie: leather, latex, high heels, lingerie, etc). If you don't have fetwear, basic black is always acceptable.

For other events such as swinger nights, you can wear whatever you like, although "dress to impress" is always a good rule of thumb. For women, dress, skirt, heels and lingerie are good choices, and feel free to change throughout the course of the evening if you wish. Men might chose dress pants or jeans. I would recommend *not* wearing 'old, comfortable' clothing, such as track pants. You are likely trying to attract favorable attention!

Arriving in soiled, torn or otherwise 'unsavory' attire reflects on the club itself and it's membership, as well as shows how much (or how little) effort you put into your appearance to attend. Someone well dressed and well groomed always attracts more favorable attention than those who 'dress down'.

9) What is the address and phone number of Breathless?

A: There is no land line at the club and so no incoming calls are accepted. In emergencies or to call a cab, a cell phone is available at all events.

The address is 318 Lisgar St. We are located on the second floor, over Venus Envy. There is no signage to indicate you've arrived at the club, except the address over the door on the lefthand side of the building. You'll see a flight of stairs leading upstairs.

10) Where can I park?

A: Do *not* park in one of the spots in front of the building. These belong to other businesses and they have towed others in the past. There are two parking lots on Lisgar in the same block (just east of the club). The second one (across from Cannus Plastics) is dimly lit after dark and is usually empty at night (the first one is always dark). Parking is also available along the streets.