Jerry Manis, the regional manager of Intimate Ideas’ Michigan stores, never planned on working in adult retail — but he says it’s turned out to be a surprisingly rewarding gig.
“It started as a chance to help out a friend, but became a full-on career,” he explains. “It’s honestly so refreshing to be able to make such a significant impact on people’s lives — and it’s very fulfilling to see customers returning each time because of how positive their first experience was.”
It’s more than just a sale — it’s about building a connection.
Whether he’s helping shoppers select the perfect piece of lingerie or introducing them to the latest advances in pleasure technology, Manis loves connecting customers with their desires and helping to create a space where people feel comfortable exploring their sexuality. With its playful space-alien logo and quirky yet welcoming vibe, Intimate Ideas offers shoppers both variety and a relaxed atmosphere at three Michigan locations: in Wixom, Commerce and Brighton.
The goal, Manis notes, is to be a friendly space where customers can ask questions and explore comfortably.
“We like to think of our stores as a judgment-free zone,” he affirms. “You walk through the door, and we treat you like our best friend. Our mission is always to have great prices and provide amazing customer service, along with an educational and fun experience. Also, we like to make sure everyone can shop in our stores, so we try to be fully accessible for all different types of clientele.”
Regulars at Intimate Ideas value the store’s extensive selection, from sex toys and machines to playful swings, DVDs, lingerie and more. To meet changing customer interests and needs, the store now also offers a variety of smoke shop items.
Manis’ personal journey with Intimate Ideas brought him to Michigan from his familiar environment in Florida, where he served as the chain’s area manager for two years. He says he has no regrets about the move, especially since the stores he now manages have thrived.
“I have wonderful staff and customers,” he says. “I am beyond grateful — and very proud of how far all of my stores have come in such a short amount of time. With some hard work, we’ve hit projections almost every month.”
In an increasingly crowded market, Intimate Ideas aims to stand out by being inviting, inclusive and engaging.
“We genuinely strive to make every experience memorable, from the moment you walk in until you leave,” Manis attests. “It’s more than just a sale. It’s about building a connection.”
Intimate Ideas also works to raise awareness and provide education through its social media channels, offering discounts on condoms and games to promote open discussions about sex and to motivate customers to prioritize their sexual health.
One specific challenge Manis has noticed goes beyond just commercial concerns. Amid the current tense political climate, he perceives a growing disconnect among people — a fragmentation of community and shared experience that he worries could have deeper implications in the future.
“I believe people need to open themselves up to change and understand that not everyone’s way of thinking will always match theirs,” Manis reflects. “And to love one another, spread peace and avoid negativity and hate. I believe if we all come together, everyone can succeed.”
Applying that outlook on a smaller scale, Manis envisions a bright outlook for Intimate Ideas. Riding a wave of positive momentum, he has aspirations to expand the brand’s footprint across Michigan and bring its unique energy to more communities.
“Growth and more growth,” Manis says. “I hope that we get some renovations done, keep on providing amazing customer service — and find more ways to give back to the community.”
