If you've been enjoying sex toys and are ready to share the love with your partner or want to experiment with toys to inject a little excitement into your and your partner's sex life, there are a few things to keep in mind before bringing home the likes of a big, fat dildo!

Personal preference obviously plays a huge role when it comes to choosing a toy, so what you like, may not necessarily be your partner's cup of tea. Also, let's face it; men and women have different needs and are obviously not built the same, so choosing a toy for the both of you is a far different experience than choosing one for solo-play. Another thing to keep in mind is your partner's feelings, because while adult toys may be second nature to you and something that you just simply see as 'fun' may actually put your partner off. Sadly, many men still see a sex toy as a sort of a threat and whether they voice it or not, they worry that they are 'not enough' for you (yes, this is a penis thing). And while women tend to be more open to the idea of sex toys; depending on how it is introduced, she may also feel that you are opting for toys because you are not happy with your sex life. Be clear that this is in no way a replacement or your attempt to get elsewhere what is missing but rather something that you think the two of you would enjoy-together.

The best way to bring a sex toy into a relationship is to choose one together. This is in keeping with my point that just because a toy works for you, does not mean it will tickle their fancy quite the same way. Make the experience as much of a "team effort" as possible. A word of advice for women: don't head straight to the dildos and cocks page or section of the store as the true meaning of the term 'penis envy' is bound to rear its ugly head (pardon the pun)! Instead, opt for toys that are specifically geared for couples like a vibrating cock ring with a clit stimulator or one of the sensual massage or light bondage kits. Sex games are also a hot option for those looking to ease into this magical and erotic world slowly.

If a vibrator or dildo is calling your name and you long to incorporate one into your bedroom play, then it's time for some crafty measures and a good ol' dose of using-your-feminine-wiles-to-get-what-you-want! This is simpler than you think. Men are very visual creatures, so you can talk about the joys of the dildo till you're blue in the face and he will still just see a big ol' cock that he doesn't want anywhere near him in fear of seeming gay and secretly being jealous that you like the big plastic dick better than his. The best way to get his attention is using a more visual approach. Tell him that you'd like to show him how sexy a vibrator can be. Then, lay back and begin to run your vibe along your body as he watches intently. Make the show as hot as you can muster the nerve to; complete with breathy moans and all. Run that toy down between your legs and over your clit being sure to keep eye contact with him the entire time so he feels a part of the experience. Finally, assuming that he hasn't already jumped in; tell him to take over and hand him the toy. There is something incredibly erotic about using a toy on a woman and he will quickly see that. This is especially great if you have been together a long time as it will show him a naughty side of you that he may have forgotten.

Sex toys can breathe new sexual life into a relationship and with the right approach; sex toys and relationships can live happily ever after. So, listen to your partners needs and concerns and then sit at that computer together (naked!) and make the experience like foreplay with a few well placed kisses, licks and whatever else your naughty little heart desires! And oh yeah; happy shopping!

My picks for the best couple-friendly toys: Cascade, Tera Patrick's Virtual Bunny and Honeymoon for Lovers Kit, Lover's Fantasy Kit