Woman Opens 'Cuddle Shop' In Oregon, US, Gets 10,000 Customers In First Week

AFP Photo/Justin Tallis

A woman has opened a professional cuddling shop in Portland, Oregon, where customers pay US$60 dollars for 60 minutes worth of cuddling, spooning, or general platonic human contact, with interest so high that she has received 10,000 requests in a week.

“This business has taken off,” professional cuddler Samantha Hess told Fox 12. The hour-long sessions have garnered serious interest, and aren’t just restricted to cuddling – hand-holding, spooning and hair stroking also come as part of the deal.

“I've gotten as many as 10,000 emails in a week,” Hess told the channel.
All contact remains strictly platonic and sessions are recorded to make sure there can be no grounded or groundless accusations of inappropriate behaviour.

Customers are encouraged to wear pyjamas and discussions during the sessions are strictly optional.
Hess describes the sessions as providing “the level of human contact that we want or need in order to be our optimal selves.”

“I was at a place where I thought paying someone to hug me and not have ulterior motives sounded like a great idea,” she said. “I decided why can't this be a thing that we can easily and safely reach for?”

Testimonials on the Cuddle Up To Me website state that people had no idea that they had previously been missing it.

Hess began providing cuddles at the homes of different clients before setting up a permanent studio for the practice. The studio has four themed rooms and three other members of staff since opening.

“After meeting Samantha Hess, I feel so much better,” said Steve from Vancouver.

“Our cuddle time gave me a different outlook on life. I had no idea what I was missing. I am a big fan now and look forward to our next session. She is encouraging, kind and sincere.”