Sassy Sensations, Youngstown

After her divorce in 1997, Vanessa Fuchs was invited to an in-home party that, unbeknownst to her, was actually an adult-toy party. She was apprehensive about staying, but she ended up enjoying herself, even making a purchase of her own. Vanessa then realized that women needed more opportunities to learn about adult toys in a fun, professional way and a place to purchase them confidentially. So she opened up her own in-home adult-toy business, which grew over the years into the boutique Sassy Sensations.

Now, customers at three locations can purchase toys, lingerie, accessories, and costumes. Sassy Sensations also has mystery gift bags, including the Giggles bag, which brims with gels, lotions, games, novelties, and at least one knock-knock joke.