HEX kink market was disappointing
HEX kink market was disappointingThis one was really excited when it got invited to go to HEX, the kink market in Sheffield, as it had not been to a kink market in ages, and it was nice to see one closer to it than the ones it went to in the past, like BBB. It was excited by the fact there was a silicone toy making demo, and a few of the vendors teased on the instagram. Sadly, the problems with the event started as soon as it walked in.
The organisers of HEX seem confused what type of event they’re running. The lights were very dim and the music was loud, creating an environment where it was sometimes difficult to even properly get a look at some of the merchandise (especially if it was black, as many things are at a kink market). The music was loud enough that it was difficult for sellers to hear folks trying to buy things from them, and it created an environment that was overall overwhelming, difficult, and made the experience kinda totally suck! It was set up, light and sound wise, like a party, but it’s not a party! It’s a market! Other kink markets are well lit and keep the music quiet, if there is any at all.
This would be redeemed if there was good extra things going on, or even particularly good stalls, but they were literally all sellers that also sell at other, better events and online, and not even an interesting variety of sellers - it was probably 80% impact toys, a few clothing/accessory sellers, one or two artists, and that was sorta it. This one did pick up a few nice things - but from sellers it already knew, already followed, and things it was planning on buying online anyway. There was social space, but it was so loud it was difficult to hear anybody.
so.. yeah. Not a great time. This one would recommend anybody considering going to HEX to save up for a train ticket to Birmingham’s Bizarre Bazaar instead.