Even during last year’s retail slump, the adult home party business continued to rock and roll — at least in New Jersey. Just ask Holly Corbella. Based in the Garden State, Corbella is the founder, CEO and lead party planner for Parties by Bellas, an intimate, in-home sex toy event company focusing on creating budget-friendly home parties for women on the East Coast.
A modern, affordable and down-to-earth approach to home parties has kept Parties by Bellas going strong. So has Corbella’s ability to motivate her team of party planners, bringing success within reach for all consultants.
I don’t regret my decision for one second to go all-in on the in-home adult party business.
This month, the Women in Adult spotlight is on Holly Corbella as she inspires others to sustain their passion for bringing the life-changing world of sex toys to female consumers everywhere, no matter what difficulties life and business may throw their way.
XBIZ: What initially drew you to the pleasure industry?
Holly Corbella: Starting my own in-home sex toy company wasn’t my initial career idea. I hosted my first party in 2013 and was invited to join the program. I wasn’t sure at first, but figured I would give it a shot. Before I knew it, I had quit my 9-5. From 2013 to 2016, I was a consultant for another company, so I had more rules to follow. Then I started Parties by Bellas in 2017 — and the rest is history! I felt on top of the world then and still do.
XBIZ: How did you grow your business and ramp up bookings when you first started?
Corbella: Social media and attending networking events were everything back then. I made connections and met new people on a weekly basis. It’s all about connections with a business like this. You want to be the first person someone thinks of when they see that funny dildo meme or when someone asks them if they know anyone who does in-home parties.
I also opened my company up to give others the opportunity to join our Parties by Bellas family and start their own side hustle. I realized I couldn’t do this alone, and I didn’t want to because it’s more fun to experience this with others. Companies have always focused on being customer-friendly, but I wanted to create a consultant-friendly environment as well. So I eliminated all stressors, such as high quotas, and made the contests for vacations and other fun prizes more achievable. We’ve created a sisterhood that supports each other in business and each other’s lives.
XBIZ: How has the home party business evolved since you began, and how have you adapted?
Corbella: Overall, parties are just as lucrative now, but the size has changed. Parties 10 years ago were much bigger, averaging 20 to 30 guests. As parties have become more intimate in recent years, we’re averaging 10 to 12 guests. Guests seem to enjoy smaller parties more, as I can provide more individual attention.
This last year was challenging for retail, but these parties are not only fun but also very affordable — because they are free! Plus, I always have a bargain bin for my budget shoppers. I was told to steer clear of this when working with other companies. They would say it cheapens the brand. But I love a good bargain, so why wouldn’t I offer this to my consumers? I also offer payment plans if someone wants something but it’s out of reach at the moment. I know the power of a good orgasm and everyone deserves to experience that.
We also do larger events within the community. We work with some local charities, such as the Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean County, and Community Karma. Keep an eye out for our next community event!
XBIZ: What advice would you give future Women in Adult seeking a career in the pleasure products space?
Corbella: You only live once, so live your life with no regrets. I don’t want to be someone who looks back and thinks, “I wish I’d done that.” I want to look back and say, “Holy shit, that was fun!” Don’t be scared to fail. It’s all part of the process, so learn from it.
One of my all-time favorite quotes is, “Great things never came from comfort zones.” If you aren’t a little scared, then you don’t care enough about what you’re doing. Use that fear and adrenaline and make something great!
I don’t regret my decision for one second to go all-in on the in-home adult party business. If this is something you’re really considering, make sure to reach out because I offer a course to learn the basics of starting a business and would love to meet you and chat about your dreams. Interested ladies can also reach out and attend one of our next in-community events and get a peek behind the scenes.
XBIZ: In your experience, what traits make somebody best suited for the home party business?
Corbella: If you are that person in your group who can talk openly about sex, then this could be for you. That’s the most challenging part: being completely confident and comfortable talking about all things sex. If you aren’t, then your customers won’t be either.
This type of business is not for everyone, and it’s definitely not as easy as people assume. I love what I do, but I’ve been told “no” more times than I can or want to remember. You just have to let that negativity bounce right on back to where it came from and let that shit go.
XBIZ: What keeps you grounded in our industry and eager to stick around?
Corbella: You need a strong “why” to fall back on and bring back your motivation. What’s my “why”? Freedom! I love the freedom to make my own rules, make my own schedule, take a day off or a vacation without having to ask anyone else. It’s all worth it to have the freedom to live my life how I want to. When things get tough, I remember my “why” and never look back.
Each month, XBIZ spotlights the career accomplishments and outstanding contributions of Women in Adult. WIA profiles offer an intimate look at the professional lives of the industry’s most influential businesswomen.
