While many of us in the world of professional BDSM (and sex work overall) tend to take on lots of different kinds of odd jobs beyond our primary description, Moira has actually created a secondary business that has improved her personal and professional life while giving her an additional creative outlet.

I had the opportunity to find out how she got into the business of BDSM, a little bit on her perspective of the industry and why she started making toys.


I know you're a pro-domme, as well as a lifestyle kinkster. How did you get into the industry?

I got into the industry through a lady I'd been involved with in the lifestyle. She'd worked in the industry and recommended Sanctuary. I was a bit nervous though, and waited on it. By pure coincidence I'd become friends with someone who'd just started there; she'd encouraged me as well, so I called, interviewed, and was subsequently hired.

Despite having friends in the industry, you still had some anxiety about getting involved; why is that? What made you nervous?

It's important to really think about wanting to get involved in the pro side. You're taking something that can be an intimate expression between yourself and a partner. Turning it into a business isn't something everyone can do...There was also stigma from people in the lifestyle who don't hold professionals with much respect. But...I saw it as an opportunity to learn and grow as an individual.

Working for the dungeon I do, being able to learn from those with ten+ years in the industry...it's been a lot of hard work, but absolutely fantastic.

How long were you involved in lifestyle kink before you started working as dungeon staff?

I'd been involved for two years prior so I was familiar with a great many aspects of the lifestyle and had experienced many forms of play. However, the professional side of BDSM can be very different than lifestyle, since...we mainly deal with "vanilla" people as clients.

Which came first: pro-domming or toy making?

They coincided. I'd started working as a Top, but I found I couldn't afford really any of what was available. This was my motivation for making myself some toys...As I used them at parties I kept getting asked by professional and lifestyle [people] where I'd gotten them. And some wanted to buy.

That's so awesome! I don't think people outside of the industry have a full understanding of how bad the overhead costs can be. Has it changed the way you shop for toys?

It has. I can recognize skill and quality materials better. I also find more fascination and excitement when someone shows me something new they've gotten.

Which toy that you make is your favorite? Which is the most popular?

My favorite is probably my canes. They're simple and attractive in how the clear shaft catches the light.

My best selling are my riding crops. I think because I make them in so many different colors and there are few toys that brings the imagery of BDSM to mind [like a crop]. It's something experienced and beginner players can use.

Find more about Moira Leyland at her website, and check out her collection of carefully crafted BDSM toys here. You can also find her on Twitter @Moira_Leyland.