COLUMBUS, Ohio—After years of success in Chicago and New Jersey, the Exxxotica Expo has been spreading its wings in recent years, traveling to new cities. Though it’s not always been easy (we’re looking at you, Dallas) the adults-only show seems to be a hit in the Buckeye State.
Exxxotica Columbus debuted Friday at the Greater Columbus Convention Center and as the crowds grew during the first evening, so did their enthusiasm for the stage shows, seminars, sex toys and, of course, the stars.
Joanna Angel, head of BurningAngel Entertainment, had a major presence show, filled with the company’s popular titles and beautiful girls.
“It’s always great coming to these shows and meeting the fans,” she said. “I really like Ohio, and the chance to meet fans here is great.”
Layton Benton, a veteran of Exxotica shows, said it was an easy decision for her to travel to the Midwest for the newest installment.
“I always like going to the newer shows and getting to experiment a little,” she told AVN. “I always love going to the Chicago and New Jersey shows, and I was looking forward to this one. I’ve been to Columbus before to feature dance and I really liked it here.”
Making her debut at any Exxxotica show was busty beauty Brandy Talore, who said she is planning on returning to the industry.
“I’ve been back in for exactly one hour now!” she said with a laugh. “I haven’t shot anything for a DVD since 2011 but I think I am ready to get back into it.”
Though five years away might seem like an eternity in the adult industry, Talore had fans coming up to chat, take pictures and thank her for her work. She still has the same sweet baby face and innocent looks, but now sports blonde locks instead of brunette.
She decided to make her way back into the business by way of Ohio, she said, because she lives in the state and decided attending Exxxotica would be a good place to start.
“I don’t know the business anymore!” she said. “So much has changed. I have been working on my website, BrandyTaloreVIP.com, and doing webcam stuff, but I know nothing about the DVD side anymore. I figured this would be as good a place to start as any!”
Attendees of Exxxotica weren’t just treated to some of the industry’s hottest performers signing autographs, selling their merchandise and posing for pictures, they also got plenty of entertainment in the form of shows on the main stage and educational seminars.
Tanya Tate kicked off the seminar tracks with “Exxxotica Pro Tips.”
“It was meant for people who are attending their first Exxxotica,” she explained. “What to do, what not to do, how to get the best experience.”
The main stage featured everything from a twerking contest judged by Vicki Chase and Abella Danger to “Everything You Want To Know About Adult,” which featured Tanya Tate, Allie Haze, Tori Black—who celebrated her birthday on Friday at the show—and more.
Even local residents were getting in on the opportunities presented by Exxxotica’s first visit to Columbus. The Garden Inc.—deemed one of the top kinky sex boutiques in the country and located just a miles from the Greater Columbus Convention Center—was one of the retails booths set up on the show floor.
“We have had some shows related to sex here in town,” said Erin McLaughlin of The Garden. “Sexapalooza has been here a few times, but this is the first show that features performers. Guys are getting their turn at this show, after the shows that were only about couples and sex health.”
The Garden booth was stocked with mini vibes, lubes, and more.
“We have lots of small items so people can take them right back to their hotel and enjoy them right away!” Mclaughlin said.
Exxxotica Columbus, presented by MyFreeCams.com, continues through Sunday, Aug. 28. For more information, visit OH.ExxxoticaExpo.com.
