SoCal CC Community Meetup? Pros, Clients, Cuddle Enthusiasts, Travelers, Welcome!

AuthenticLucyAuthenticLucy
in General

I've been thinking about organizing a SoCal meetup for the CC community, and wanted to see if anyone would be interested!

This would be open to professional cuddlers, clients, and anyone who enjoys or is curious about the cuddling community. Locals and travelers are welcome!

I think it could be a fun opportunity for everyone to meet in real life, talk shop, share experiences, make friends, network, or even find their own connections within the community. More than anything, I'd love to see us bring more awareness to the community and create opportunities to connect beyond the platform.

The idea:

I'm thinking somewhere in LA, OC, or a middle ground that's convenient for most people. Maybe an adult arcade, a game friendly venue, or even a public park where everyone can hang out, mingle, and play games (preferably not during a heat wave).

Games are a great way to break the ice and get a feel for people's personalities without the pressure of having to carry a conversation the entire time. If we choose somewhere without games available, everyone could bring a game of their own. I'm thinking of bringing something like {THE AND} by The Skin Deep for conversation starters and maybe rummikub (6 players) or something.

And just to clarify, this wouldn't be an organized cuddle session or require anyone to participate in physical touch. It's primarily a social meetup. If people happen to make connections and mutually decide to explore something beyond that, it's entirely up to the individuals involved and their boundaries.

Date, time & location: TBA

Nothing is set in stone yet! I'd love to collaborate with others in the community, gather ideas, and get a general headcount before deciding on a venue and date.

Would anyone be interested in something like this? And if so, what areas, venues, or activities would you suggest?

I'd love to hear everyone's thoughts, including from those who might just want to come hang out and meet others in the community!

If this ends up being successful, we can do multiple events for people to join next time as well. !

  1. Would you be interested in attending a SoCal CC Community Meetup?44 votes
    1. Yes, I would love to!
      88.64%
    2. Not at this time.
      11.36%
«1

Comments

  • AuthenticLucyAuthenticLucy
    edited October 8

    file-00000000a8dc81fd94b618a02d71e71b

  • MeltMyWayMeltMyWay

    Id absolutely love to participate. I live in woodland hills ... I'm just visiting in Michigan right now. I wouldn't mind helping you organize as well. Let me know if I can help. I'm going to reach out to my clients in L.A. and O.C. let them know about it as most have admitted to me they don't ever read the forums.

  • TattooSqueezeTattooSqueeze
    edited October 8

    @AuthenticLucy What a brilliant idea! My friend has a beautiful multilevel AirBNB in San Diego with a private hot tub, fire pits, cozy outdoor movie setup, spacious deck with grill and lounge seating. He has an oversized lounge style couch in the living room, perfect for a cuddle puddle. If this venue is favorable, I could check availability and cost. Attendees could split the booking fee, make it potluck and bring your favorite game. I'm picturing a winter theme, with a DIY hot cocoa bar. I thought about organizing a Cuddle Meetup, so I'm glad you suggested it. Let me know if you're interested and I can share the link to see photos.

  • CuddlingforlifeCuddlingforlife

    I would be absolutely interested. If you need help organizing. Let me know!

  • AngelNextDoorAngelNextDoor

    @AuthenticLucy You are such a blessing for getting this going! Please count me in however I can help and @TattooSqueeze please also put me down for that AirBnB in San Diego! I would love it and the chance to visit the sea lions again. San Diego is so much more affordable than LA too, and so much less claustrophobic.

    We used to live in Idyllwild before we moved to Florida, and it's actually not a far trip from San Diego to Idyllwild. If you need day trip ideas! :)

  • cuddlyDavidcuddlyDavid
    edited October 8

    What is a SoCal? I am not sure non-Americans would understand.

  • AngelNextDoorAngelNextDoor

  • cuddlyDavidcuddlyDavid

    @AngelNextDoor Thanks for that. It was such an obscure name I thought it might be a thing rather than a place. When I mention a town or county in the UK I always add UK at the end. I know we have some obscure place names too!

  • TheFunCartelTheFunCartel

    What is a SoCal? I am not sure non-Americans would understand.

    SoCal is a magical land where calories are considered and labeled as good or bad. But all calories are so-so (SoCal) because calories are never absolutely good or bad. For example, you might have a juicy burger and a large bowl of ice cream. You can say the burger is bad because a cow gave its life to corporate greed and the greedy jowls of fast food customers but for many it represents the best part of the day in their otherwise wretched life. Likewise, ice cream rocks and is therefore good, but evil awaits under the surface in the form of stored fat and potential diabetes. And that is what So-So Calories (SoCal) is.

    To understand the concept of SoCal, one needs a developed sense of behavior rationalization and the ability to mentally understate the consequences of calorie consumption.

  • cuddlyDavidcuddlyDavid
    edited October 9

    @TheFunCartel That may be so but you wat until you visit Tickle Cock Bridge in West Yorkshire, UK. Then the fun really starts

  • CuddlesofcuddleCuddlesofcuddle
    edited October 9

    @TheFunCartel I can't with with you 🤣😂😭
    You're legit a delight and good for a chuckle.

    If things are well with work at the time of the event count me in! I love California 💜

  • Vintage_EmbraceVintage_Embrace

    @AuthenticLucy
    Love 🫶 this cuddle collaboration opportunity.
    Used to live in Echo Park & Brentwood ‘round LA. ♥️

    Not sure if there would be many to put funds towards a rented space but it’s definitely worth the possibility.

    Keep us posted.

  • JessAZJessAZ

    I live in Phoenix and would fly there.

  • AuthenticLucyAuthenticLucy

    @TattooSqueeze and @MeltMyWay

    Yes I would love help in organizing the event! I could honestly use all the help I could get in this as it's an idea for now lol but I think with more people coming together (also that airbnb venue idea sounds awesome), I think we should definitely make this happen.

    And it definitely doesnt have to be right away, we can definitely wait until you return from Michigan (and/or when there is availability for the airbnb as well!)

  • AuthenticLucyAuthenticLucy
    edited October 9

    Since I got a lot of volunteers for helping out, would it be smart to create a telegram group for that? To help plan? I dont want to break any rules but for the sake of planning such a meetup, I imagine that it would be best to for more instant messaging esp if people dont want to share their phone number right away or perhaps keeping all discussion and planning on this forum is a safe option too. But for those who reached out to help plan this, I encourage you guys to offer suggestions what youre comfortable with doing as well. Even in the planning stages, everything should be consensual between collaborators.

    I am not really sure how these meetups work, but seriously, would be down to have all of you (: And if San Diego is too much of a drive for everyone, we can also look into other airbnbs for official attendees as well.

    @MeltMyWay @AngelNextDoor

    @Vintage_Embrace - if an airbnb is too much of a cost, we can try an alternative space, but I would like to see what would allow such an idea in a more relaxed private environment or having the freedom to cuddle or just enjoy company.

    @Cuddlesofcuddle and @JessAZ yes I will definitely keep this forum updated when more concrete ideas are made, but definitely wanted to gauge interest to see if it's worth organizing.

    @cuddlyDavid thank you for bringing that to my attention! If it allowed me to edit the title, I would have changed it to southern california but I dont have that option to. So, hopefully others curious enough will just ask or see previous comments!

  • AngelNextDoorAngelNextDoor

    Okay wait, I LOVE that this went from “would anyone be interested?” to “oh no, now we actually have to organize this” 😂💜

    Since you already have the interest poll in the OP, I think the next step once you know there's enough interest might actually be a simple Google Form or something similar for people who are seriously considering attending.

    I've only done one meetup like this before and only as a guest, but my biggest takeaway was that it's probably better to collect the information first and make decisions second.

    Nothing crazy or invasive — just things like:
    • CC username
    • Pro/enthusiast
    • General area they're coming from
    • Which weekends/dates work
    • How far they're willing to travel
    • Whether they'd need overnight accommodations
    • What kind of meetup they'd actually want (casual social meetup, organized cuddle event, activities, etc.)
    • Whether they'd be willing to help with planning
    • Any accessibility or logistical needs we should account for

    Then we could actually look at the responses and say, “Okay, 15 people are genuinely interested, 11 can do this weekend, most prefer this area, and 4 need accommodations,” instead of trying to organize everything through 900 forum comments. 😂

    I'd probably keep the general discussion and updates here so other people can still discover it and participate. Then once there's an actual group of likely attendees, we can figure out whether we even NEED a separate group chat for the planning team and make sure whatever we use is okay under CC's rules first.

    And I definitely wouldn't book an Airbnb or choose a specific venue yet. I think people → date → general location → type of event → venue makes more sense in that order.

    Also please don't feel like you accidentally volunteered to personally organize CuddleCon 2026 just because you made the post. 😂 You discovered that apparently a bunch of us want this, so we can divide and conquer. I'm happy to help brainstorm and organize. 💜😇

  • AuthenticLucyAuthenticLucy

    @AngelNextDoor haha yes, I can totally see how that looks that way. I mean I would have tried to organize it regardless of help lmao but being overjoyed that people offered to organize was unexpected but I am so glad that there is a more concrete direction for this. And thank you, yes, I think this form idea is a good idea. I will definitely make one and post one shortly and respond to everything you just said in a minute.

  • TattooSqueezeTattooSqueeze

    @AuthenticLucy love how your idea sparked so much enthusiasm and joy. I think the Google form is a great idea. I would add a column for contribution, how much attendees are comfortable paying. Thank you kindly for taking the lead on this.

    @AngelNextDoor great suggested on the Google form to gather information while protecting privacy. You might remember how much you love it here and move back.

  • AuthenticLucyAuthenticLucy
    edited October 10

    Okay sorry I disappeared a bit, my brain took a detour and finally made it back x.x

    I created the form though! It's a little lengthy and can be shortened but I tried to include some possible logistics that might come up and help narrow down options.

    Here is the link to the form. For anyone interested in joining the event, please fill this form out.

    The Southern California Cuddle Meetup

    Feel free to spread the word to those who might be interested!

    @TattooSqueeze @AngelNextDoor

  • supertouchsupertouch

    I'm in San Diego but willing to go to LA / OC if the timing works out, as long as I don't have to deal with their inferior tacos.

  • EagleCuddlesEagleCuddles

    I'm interested in attending. Also filled out the survey. I'm not willing to travel to LA, but OC would be the perfect area to do it.

    I would suggest that the first one should not take place at a bar, club, or anything that's too alcohol heavy (I do drink, but I have reservations about people drinking who I don't know). Casual drinkinh like at a Chilis is fine though

  • Sunrise_SnuggleSunrise_Snuggle

    Submitted the form.

  • AngelNextDoorAngelNextDoor

    This seems right up @MissAdventurous alley! :)

  • AuthenticLucyAuthenticLucy

    Hi all! I just wanted to let you know I received a lot of responses from the survey you all filled out and I appreciate it! I am still tallying things up and will update everyone about the results and how we can go about narrowing it down more.

  • AuthenticLucyAuthenticLucy

    SoCal CC Community Meetup 2026/2027: Planning Update!

    Thank you to everyone who has filled out the survey, shared suggestions, or offered to help organize!

    Based on the responses so far, here's where things are leaning:

    Date: January 2027 currently has the strongest interest from both professional cuddlers and clients, with February as another possibility. Sundays are the most popular, followed by Saturdays, particularly during the afternoon or evening.

    Location: We're narrowing our search to Orange County, possibly South OC, depending on available venues and everyone's travel preferences.

    Attendance: We're currently exploring venues that could accommodate approximately 15 to 20 people, although the final headcount will depend on confirmed interest.

    Activities: The strongest interest is in a combination of casual socializing, games, and optional platonic cuddling. The idea is to give everyone a chance to meet, get to know each other, and participate in whatever they're comfortable with.

    Potential Venues: A few community members have offered to help research venues, including options through Peerspace. We've come across some interesting private spaces with amenities like indoor ping pong tables, jacuzzis, multiple lounging areas, and full kitchens that can be rented for a few hours.

    We're also considering public venues, arcades, and other activity based spaces. Ideally, we'd like somewhere that allows everyone to gather and socialize while also having quieter, sensory friendly areas available.

    Cost: Affordability is still a priority. Private venue costs would depend on the space, number of attendees, and whether everyone is comfortable contributing. Nothing has been booked or finalized.

    Alcohol, Smoking & Vaping: Based on the responses so far, there's a strong preference for an alcohol free and smoke/vape free environment, or at least limiting alcohol consumption through something like drink tickets. Since the focus is on socializing and connecting, I'm leaning toward choosing a venue that doesn't serve or require alcohol in the first place. Smoking and vaping would ideally be kept away from the gathering as well. Unless anyone has objections or other suggestions, this seems like the most comfortable option for everyone.

    Comfort and Safety: Clear guidelines around consent, personal boundaries, and respectful behavior will be established. Physical contact will never be required.

    I'd love for this to become more than just a one time gathering, especially if other community members are interested in helping organize future events!

    We're still gathering responses! If you're interested in attending, please complete the survey so we can better determine the date, location, and activities.

    https://formspry.com/f/cmv2713wj000fe6jlf86l5wqt

    And if you have venue suggestions, ideas, or would like to help with planning, feel free to comment here or reach out!

  • AngelNextDoorAngelNextDoor

    Okay, I've officially been assigned venue research duty. 😂💜 @AuthenticLucy asked me to post some of the spaces I've been looking at so everyone can weigh in before we narrow anything down!

    I tried to keep the survey results in mind while searching: roughly 15–20 people, Orange County/South OC, affordable if we're splitting the cost, room to actually socialize, some games/activities, and ideally enough seating or separate areas that people aren't forced to be in the middle of everything the entire time.

    I also paid particular attention to Sunday availability since Sunday currently seems to be the favorite.

    Here are a few of the options I've found so far! I've put the details for each one into accordions so this doesn't become the world's longest forum comment. 😂


    🏡 LAKE FOREST — Modern Bright Clubhouse | ⭐ Best Overall

    This one looks like a REALLY good match for what people said they wanted.

    • $85/hour currently listed
    • 3-hour minimum
    • 1,116 sq. ft.
    • Seating for up to 30
    • Couches + tables/chairs
    • Foosball
    • Shuffleboard
    • Kitchenette/bar area
    • Small refrigerator
    • Private restrooms
    • Wi-Fi
    • Outside food/drinks allowed
    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Sunday availability: 10 AM–5 PM

    I really like this one because it gives us activities without making the activities the entire event. There are couches and different seating areas for people who would rather talk and relax, while other people can play games.

    Four hours at the currently listed base rate would be about $340 before Peerspace fees/add-ons, which would only be about $17–23/person if 15–20 people split the base rental.

    LINK:
    https://www.peerspace.com/pages/listings/5e06123ff670ae000db1c89a


    🎱 COSTA MESA — Luxury Private Game Room | ⭐ Best for Activities

    This one looks SO fun.

    • Approximately 18–20 people at the standard capacity
    • 550 sq. ft.
    • 5-hour minimum
    • Ping pong
    • Billiards
    • Darts
    • Shuffleboard
    • Lots of modern seating
    • Large refrigerator
    • One restroom
    • Sunday availability
    • No full kitchen

    This is definitely the most activity-focused option I've found. My only hesitation is the size. At 550 sq. ft., I wonder whether 15–20 of us would start feeling a little packed in, especially if people want quieter areas to sit and talk.

    Still absolutely worth considering because basically nobody could complain that there was nothing to do. 😂

    LINK:
    https://www.peerspace.com/pages/listings/65778f51873b24000ee85ce4


    🌴 IRVINE — Large Indoor/Outdoor Lounge | ⭐ Best for Space

    This one is MUCH larger and gives everyone more room to spread out.

    • $150/hour currently listed
    • 3-hour minimum
    • 2,000 sq. ft.
    • Capacity up to 35
    • Couches + tables/chairs
    • Pool table
    • Shuffleboard
    • Foosball
    • Kitchenette with sink, refrigerator + microwave
    • Outdoor seating + BBQs
    • Private space
    • Wheelchair accessible

    The downside: it's currently CLOSED Sundays.

    Saturday is available from 10 AM–5 PM, so I'm including it because it could be a great option if we ultimately choose Saturday instead.

    Four hours at the currently listed base rate would be around $600 before fees, or roughly $30–40/person with 15–20 attendees.

    LINK:
    https://www.peerspace.com/pages/listings/645a50637f79e6000e0b6ed1


    ✨ IRVINE — Modern Indoor/Outdoor Clubhouse |⭐ Best Kitchen

    This is another larger option with a lot of room for different things to be happening at once.

    • $175/hour currently listed
    • 3-hour minimum
    • 1,500 sq. ft.
    • Capacity up to 40
    • Couches + tables/chairs
    • Full kitchen with oven, stove, sink + refrigerator
    • Pool table
    • Shuffleboard
    • Indoor/outdoor setup
    • BBQ grills + outdoor seating
    • Wheelchair accessible

    This one would be especially nice if we wanted to do food or some kind of potluck setup because it has an actual full kitchen.

    Unfortunately, this one is ALSO currently closed Sundays, so I'd consider it more of a Saturday alternative than a front-runner based on the survey results.

    Four hours at the currently listed base rate would be about $700 before fees, or roughly $35–47/person with 15–20 attendees.

    LINK:
    https://www.peerspace.com/pages/listings/62fa8b0e8cb523000eb0a142


    💰 OLD TOWN ORANGE — Private Nook | ⭐ Best Budget Option

    Okay, this one is the budget contender!

    • $50/hour currently listed
    • 2-hour minimum
    • Capacity up to 20
    • 390 sq. ft.
    • Private entrance/exit
    • Public parking
    • Restroom just outside the room
    • Tables/chairs available as an add-on
    • Sunday availability: 10 AM–5 PM

    This one is MUCH simpler than the clubhouse/game-room options. It's basically a private flexible room that we'd turn into our own little meetup space with games, snacks, decorations, etc.

    The huge advantage is the price. Four hours at the currently listed base rate would only be about $200 before Peerspace fees/add-ons — roughly $10–14/person if 15–20 people split the base rental.

    The tradeoff is SPACE. At only 390 sq. ft., I think 20 people could feel pretty crowded, and we wouldn't have the same separate lounge/game/quiet areas that some of the larger venues offer.

    So I think this one gives us a really useful comparison:
    Do we want to spend more for space + built-in amenities, or keep everyone's contribution really low and create the experience ourselves?

    LINK:
    https://www.peerspace.com/pages/listings/67ed6831a4b9b93c905e2b24

  • EagleCuddlesEagleCuddles

    Oh, I really like the Lake Forest one. Reasonably priced. Sure there's a lack of activities compared to the Costa Mesa one, but I feel that it can be mitigated by bringing other board games.

    I appreciate you putting this together

  • AuthenticLucyAuthenticLucy
    edited October 18

    I also second what @EagleCuddles said! I like the Lake Forest location the best so far.

    In terms of food, I think we could just do potluck style, with everyone bringing something to share. We can also bring extra coolers for beverages if needed.

    Also, @AngelNextDoor, thank you for providing such detailed options! I love how meticulous you were with the results. My AuDHD brain is fangirling right now lol.

    As for entertainment, that location already seems to have plenty of options, and with everyone bringing games or other activities, I think it could work out really well!

    Current Interest and Attendance

    I originally estimated around 15 to 20 people to account for anyone else who might become interested later. Based on the survey responses I've received by email so far, we currently have 15 people interested! Though 25 people did respond to the poll, stating they are interested.

    @AngelNextDoor and a few others have also mentioned having unofficial meetups on multiple days so people can get to know each other before the main gathering. I'm totally open to that too, especially for those traveling from farther away. It would be nice to make the trip worthwhile!

    And @TiredAndBored, I hope you don't mind me tagging you here, but based on the feedback you shared in the survey, I'd also love to have your help if you're still interested!

    What We Could Use Help With

    • Alternative venues: Researching other options besides private rentals, especially places that can accommodate a larger group with activities available.

    • Games and activities: Putting together a list of games or activities people could bring to make things more fun.

    • Food: Potluck seems like the easiest option for a private venue, but affordable catering, splitting catering costs, or choosing a public venue where everyone can purchase their own food could also work.

    • Setup and cleanup: Helping before and after the gathering. Since this would be included within our reserved booking hours, we'd need to plan accordingly.

    • Rules and guidelines: Helping establish expectations around consent, boundaries, safety, and respectful behavior.

    • Welcoming attendees: Greeting everyone, helping them get settled, and making sure they know where everything is.

    • Sponsorship: Anyone interested in contributing toward venue costs, food, supplies, or other expenses.

    • Flyers and promotion: Creating flyers, sharing them with members, and spreading the word outside the forum. We'd want to get permission from the moderators first.

    • Supplies: Nametags, a possible sign in sheet, coolers, and any other materials that could make the gathering easier or more enjoyable. We could also take pictures with our phones or disposable camera/polaroid if everyone is comfortable with that. (Not necesssary).

    Date and Venue

    Based on everyone's feedback and the venue options @AngelNextDoor has shared, Sunday seems like our best option.

    The Lake Forest venue is available from 10 AM to 5 PM on Sundays, so I think aiming for the actual gathering around 12 PM to 5 PM, including setup and cleanup, could work. We can adjust the timing as needed to make sure there's enough time for everything.

    Of course, if none of the current venue options feel like the right fit, we can absolutely keep looking! I'll also be helping research additional locations, so we're not limited to what's been suggested so far.

    Volunteers and Community Members Who Have Offered to Help

    I know I've spoken with several people who have expressed interest in volunteering or helping coordinate the event. Here's what I have so far based on survey responses and conversations.

    Event Coordination and Finding Venues

    @TattooSqueeze
    @MeltMyWay
    @notuniquename
    @cuddly55
    @AuthenticLucy
    @Cuddlingforlife (also mentioned possibly arranging a suite)

    Sponsoring Costs

    @cuddlesofcuddle
    @AuthenticLucy
    @MeltMyWay
    @cuddly55
    @Cuddlingforlife

    Possible Additional Sponsors, depending on activity

    @supertouch
    @AngelNextDoor
    @Sunrise_Snuggle
    @vuo

    Planning and Coordination

    @AngelNextDoor
    @AuthenticLucy
    @TattooSqueeze
    @Cuddlingforlife

    Welcoming Guests

    @AngelNextDoor
    @notuniquename
    @Cuddlingforlife

    Games and Activities

    @TattooSqueeze
    @AuthenticLucy
    @Cuddlingforlife

    Bringing Supplies

    @TattooSqueeze
    @Cuddlingforlife
    @AuthenticLucy

    If I've missed anyone, placed you under the wrong category, or you'd like to help with something else, please let me know! Nothing here is an obligation. I'm just trying to organize everyone's offers so far.

    Other Suggestions From the Survey

    Some notable ideas for casual meetups or alternative gathering locations included:

    • Chili's restaurant
    • Irvine Spectrum
    • Parks with cookouts
    • Movie outings
    • Arcades with billiards

    LA Honorable Mention

    • Neon Retro Arcade in Old Town Pasadena, with its 80s style arcade atmosphere

    Accessibility Considerations

    • Wheelchair accessibility
    • Quiet areas and sensory accommodations
    • Public transportation access
    • Accessible parking

    I'd love to keep these considerations in mind when choosing the final venue.

    Food Preferences

    The options suggested so far include:

    • Potluck
    • Sharing the cost of catering
    • Purchasing food individually at the venue

    Additional Meetups

    I'm also open to coordinating unofficial meetups across multiple days, especially for anyone traveling into the area who wants to make the most of their visit.

    Nothing is finalized yet, but I think we're getting closer to figuring things out!

    If I'm overlooking anything, missed anyone who offered to help, or anyone has additional ideas, please feel free to chime in!

  • TattooSqueezeTattooSqueeze

    @AuthenticLucy I was able to help if the meetup was in San Diego. I'm a caretaker so I am unable to travel. Looks like you have plenty of help. I'm sure it's going to be a stellar event!

  • MeltMyWayMeltMyWay

    Hey y'all ... I just wanted to clarify a little about my availability to help with the SoCal meet & greet.

    When I originally volunteered to help, I had no idea I'd be heading back to Michigan so soon after just returning home from my sister-in-law's funeral. My mom is now preparing for open-heart surgery, and I'll likely need to be back in Michigan for several weeks to be there for her and my family.

    I also noticed I was mentioned as helping sponsor the event, or possibly finding sponsors, and unfortunately that's not something I'm able to take on, especially with the event being held in Orange County. If it was local I had some places in mind that might contribute some food or deals on space even.

    I'm still happy to share the event information with my clients, help out here and there when I have the time, and support the event however I'm realistically able to. And if I'm in California the week of the event, I'd love to attend!

    I just can't commit to any specific responsibilities right now with so much uncertainty surrounding my mom's surgery and my travel plans. I don't want anyone counting on me for something I may not be able to follow through on.

    I really do hope it's a wonderful turnout and appreciate everyone putting the time and energy into bringing our SoCal cuddle community together! 🫂💕