Everything you need to know
Wondering what to expect at The M/s Gathering? You’re in the right place. This FAQ covers the basics, including who can attend, what the weekend is all about (and what it isn’t), dress code, meals, accessibility, travel info, and the hotel policies that help us keep a welcoming venue year after year. If you’re new, nervous, or just like to plan ahead, we’ve got you.
GENERAL EVENT FAQS
Q: What is The M/s Gathering?
A: A weekend of immersive education and community connection centered around power/authority exchange relationships.
Q: Who can attend?
A: Any adult (18+) interested in M/s, D/s, or other power exchange dynamics—newcomers and experienced practitioners alike.
Q: Is this a kink event?
A: No. It is an educational event focusing on relationships, structure, communication, and authority exchange. There are no play spaces during the weekend.
Q: What is the dress code?
A: Casual and comfortable. Nothing fetish-oriented in public hotel spaces. Q: Are meals included?
Q: Are meals included?
A: Yes. Your registration includes some meals and snacks for the weekend. There are some meals where ticket purchase is required.
Q: Is the venue accessible?
A: Yes. The event space includes ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Q: How do I indicate special needs?
A: There is a section on the registration form where you can share non-food-related special needs so we can best support your experience.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Our Cancellation Policy is as follows:
Although we would love to have you with us for the M/s Gathering, we understand that life happens, and plans change. Considering that, you may cancel your registration by contacting us at registration.msgathering@gmail.com as follows:
• Through February 28, 2026, you will receive a 50% refund of your registration fee.
• Between March 1 and March 31, 2026, you will receive a 25% refund of your registration fee.
• As the hotel requires us to provide minimum headcounts on April 1, 2026, no refund will be offered after March 31, 2026.
If you have a late change of plans and wish to transfer your registration to another party, please contact us at register.msgathering@gmail.com to make arrangements. We will need the new attendees’ information as requested in the original registration.
Please be advised that any financial details should be handled between the parties involved.
Unused registrations can also be donated to our Scholarship Fund.
VENUE & HOTEL FAQS
Q: Where is The M/s Gathering held?
A: The event takes place in Wilmington, Delaware, at our partner hotel and conference venue. Full details are provided to registered attendees.
Q: Why is the venue policy so important?
A: Lifestyle events face increasing challenges in securing welcoming, professional venues. We value our long-term relationship with our hotel partner, and maintaining that relationship requires everyone’s cooperation, professionalism, and respect.
Q: Do I have to sign any agreements when I register?
A: Yes. All attendees must electronically agree to abide by the event’s security and conduct policies when registering.
Q: What behavior is expected in shared hotel spaces?
A: While we have dedicated event space, hotel staff and other guests will still be present in the building.
We ask attendees to:
• Remain appropriately dressed
• Be respectful and courteous to all staff
• Avoid any behavior that could reflect poorly on the event or community
~~A former GM put it best: “Don’t do anything to disrespect our staff.” ~~
Q: Can I be nude or engage in BDSM play in hotel public spaces?
A: No. Nudity and any form of play are strictly prohibited in all public areas of the hotel, as well as the lobby and meeting rooms in our event space.
TRAVEL INFORMATION FAQS
Q: What is the closest airport?
A: The nearest major airport is Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), approximately 30–35 minutes from the hotel by car or rideshare.
Q: What is the closest train station?
A: The closest Amtrak/SEPTA station is:
Wilmington Train Station
100 South French Street
Wilmington, DE 19801
It is a short rideshare or taxi trip from the station to the hotel.
ACCESS, SECURITY & IDENTIFICATION FAQS
Q: How does access to event spaces work?
A: The event area is monitored by our security volunteers. You must wear your wristband and name badge at all times to enter event programming, meal spaces, and social areas.
Q: What about exiting and re-entering the event area?
A: You may exit through designated doors. Re-entry is only through the staffed main entrance so badges can be verified.
PHONES, PHOTOGRAPHY & RECORDING FAQS
Q: What is the cell phone policy?
A: Please silence your phones in all classes and evening events.
You may step out to take calls. Texting is fine as long as sounds/vibration are off.
Q: Can I take pictures during workshops or evening events?
A: No. Photography and recording of any kind inside classes or evening events is not permitted. Only the official event photographer may take photos in those spaces.
Q: Can I take photos elsewhere?
A: Yes, with consent.
All photos must be taken against a blank wall to ensure no one else appears in the background.
Q: What happens if someone takes unauthorized photos?
A: They will be required to delete the images immediately and may be asked to leave the event without a refund.
PETS, SERVICE DOGS & ACCESSIBILITY FAQS
Q: Can I bring a pet or service dog?
A: The hotel allows one dog per guest room, and guests are responsible for all damages.
Certified service animals are welcome as required by ADA regulations.
Q: Are there special rules for pets and service dogs during the event?
A: Yes. To ensure safety and comfort for all attendees:
• Animals must remain under the handler’s control at all times
• Flexi-leashes are not permitted
• Dogs that lunge, jump, growl, or bark excessively must be removed from public event spaces
• Non-service animals are not allowed in:
o Meal areas
o Classrooms
o Display rooms
o Any food service or kitchen areas
• Handlers must clean up after their animals
• The hotel may impose additional requirements or fees
Q: What if someone is uncomfortable around animals?
A: We ask all attendees with pets or service dogs to be attentive and considerate so that everyone can feel comfortable and safe.