Tag: resources

Three Links

by Hannah

Hi! I appreciate it when someone sends a link my way that they think we would be interested in. Sometimes it’s a link to another t-girl’s website or a new place to buy lingerie, a story in the news I missed, or resources that help us in other ways.

I’d like to pass on three sites I think are crucial to our community. If you know of any others that are helpful, please let me know.


Trans Lifeline

Trans Lifeline is a grassroots hotline and microgrants non-profit organization offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis – for the trans community, by the trans community.

Transgender Law Center

Transgender Law Center (TLC) is the largest national trans-led organization advocating for a world in which all people are free to define themselves and their futures. Grounded in legal expertise and committed to racial justice, TLC employs a variety of community-driven strategies to keep transgender and gender nonconforming people alive, thriving, and fighting for liberation.

Trans Empowerment Project

Trans Empowerment Project is moving the Trans community out of crisis and into empowerment by focusing on the abolition of white supremacy to ensure that our most marginalized community members, Disabled Queer and Trans People of Color, can thrive and live their best lives.

Love, Hannah

Ask Hannah!

by Hannah

I believe in the past, the MN T-girls had a booth at the Pride Festival. Will you have one this year?


The MN T-Girls have had booths at previous Pride Festivals.  I believe it’s important that if a support group is able to have representation at Pride, then by all means they should do what they can to be there, especially if the group fills a niche.  There are a lot of wonderful support groups for girls like us in Minnesota, such as PFLAG and Minnesota Transgender Alliance.  One aspect that I think helps the MN T-Girls differentiate itself is that I think of the group as a social group.  Each month we do something out in the community.  I think this is an important distinction.  As a t-girl there were, and will always be, things that I want to do en femme.  Go out to dinner, visit the museum, and of course, go shopping.  It’s intimidating to do these things for the first time, especially alone.  I thought a group that focused on doing everyday things like this would be helpful in terms of easing girls like me into experiencing all the things the world can offer en femme.      


But this year Pride kind of snuck up on me.  I wasn’t sure if there was going to be a festival this year and when it was announced I realized I didn’t have the time or the mental bandwidth to set up our booth registration and make other arrangements.  So, the MN T-Girls will not be there this year, at least not officially.  I will be there on the Saturday of the festival so if you see me, say hi!


Unless you’re a creep. Creeps can stay the hell away from me.

Love, Hannah

Have a question for me?  Oh yes you do.  Ask me here!

Ask Hannah!

by Hannah

I am wondering if you knew if a pre-op woman can legally use the restroom/locker room of her choice in Minnesota? I have been using the women’s locker rooms and restrooms for years, however I want to know if what I am doing is legal in the state of Minnesota.


Rules and laws change over time and vary from state to state.  The last time I checked Minnesota’s perspective (if you will) was more or less vague and not tooooo helpful.  But even if there is a law that allows people to use the changing room/locker room/restroom that aligns with their gender identity it doesn’t mean there will not be any issues.  I mean, it’s illegal to discriminate but racism and sexism sadly still exist.


I can only speak to my experience and what I do.  When I am out if there is an option to use a family or an all gender restroom I use that.  If not, I use the ladies room.  The gym I go to has a large locker room with connecting changing rooms that is designed for families and is open (and they do specify) to people of all genders.  My gym is inclusive and I love that.  


Even if it is legal to use the restroom that matches our gender identity/presentation it doesn’t mean that everything will go fine.  People are still people, after all.  In all my years of using the ladies room I have never had an issue, but I’m sure someday someone is going to say something, regardless if it’s legal for me to be in there.  


I chose to take my business to places that more or less match my values.  I won’t eat at Chik-Fil-A for example.  I go to Target not only because I live in Minnesota (and that’s what Minnesotans do, lol) but because they made it very clear that their guests are welcome to use the restrooms and changing rooms that line up with their gender identity.  Planet Fitness also made it very clear what their stance on this is as well.  


I would recommend downloading the Refugee Restroom app to your phone.  This app provides safe restroom access for transgender, intersex, and gender nonconforming individuals.  It is a valuable resource available to those who find themselves in need of a place to pee safely once again.  Users can search for restrooms by proximity to a search location, add new restroom listings, as well as comment and rate existing listings.

The ACLU is also an informative resource for this. Another resource I can direct you towards is right here. 

Be safe!

Related reading

All Dressed Up and Nowhere to Go

Love, Hannah

Have a question for me?  Oh yes you do.  Ask me here!

T-Girl Support in Wisconsin

by Hannah

As important as I think it is to find heels and dresses and lingerie that fit (and I think this is really important), I think that finding support and friendship is just as crucial.


A random thought.  I know it’s shallow to put panties and stilettos as equal to support for girls like us, but I stand by it.  For many of us, a pretty pair of panties or an amazing dress are a representation of our gender identity.  Finding the courage to wear something we have always dreamed of wearing, and having that something fit is amazing of course, but it also fulfills a hidden and secret desire that many of us have had for entire lives.


I love promoting different organizations and support/social groups for girls like us, especially in an area outside of a major metropolitan city.  I just learned of a social/support group in northeast Wisconsin near Green Bay.  They meet up on the first Thursday of each month for support, girl talk about shopping and fashion, and share experiences.  In addition to meeting each month, they also have special outings several times a year where the girls go out for dinner, shop, and go out for dinner.  


The premiere welcome, social and support group is the First Thursday CD/TG Gathering that happens every first Thursday of the month in the private and safe room attached to the back of the Napalese Lounge (see bar listing below). From 6:30 – 8:00 is reserved for M to F cross dressers, gender fluid, transgender, gender nonconforming, etc. There is no pre-registration,
fee, programs, drama just good trans people who love to gather with other kindred spirits to meet others, tell a few stories and laugh. You don’t have to worry about “passing” or wearing the right clothes. Some girls have been around for a while (wisdom figures?) and each Gathering may have a couple girls who are “coming out” to meet with others for their first time. Some who cross dress a couple times a month and others who are at various stages of fully transitioning. We may have 5 girls show up or 15. You can enter directly into the private gathering room from the parking lot on the side of the building. The well-lit back door, with a welcome sign on it is 3 feet off the parking lot. About 8:00, depending on the wishes of whoever is there that night, the group usually migrates to the Napalese Lounge bar, where we are always warmly welcomed for a night cap or two. Periodically the group plans a “Super Saturday “ which is a full evening of shopping, going out to eat, stopping a cocktail or wine lounge and usually ends by attending a drag show.

Of course, some of these activities have been impacted by COVID, but hopefully they (along with so many other things) will return to normal sooner rather than later.  If you are interested in learning more about this wonderful group, please visit their website:  https://www.meetup.com/Green-Bay-Transgender-Meetup/


The group also has provided some resources in the area for independent businesses that are friendly to girls like us and I am happy to list them here:


Frayed Knot – It is an upscale used women’s clothing store in Green Bay. The owner Jenifer (who is usually there) and her staff are wonderful and very welcoming of the trans community. Prices of quality used women’s clothing are excellent. They will fuss over you and help you find sizes, set you up in one of the changing rooms and treat you royally. They also have shoes, purses, jewelry, accessories, etc. Periodically as part of Super Saturday’s they will open the store in the evening just for trans women and host a wine and cheese party. Located at 2660 N. Packerland Drive in GB. 920-405-0533
Sunrise on Main Boutique – This is another very trans friendly and welcoming upscale used women’s clothing store. The owner is Joan who is a delight to talk with. All profits from the sale of dresses, tops, skirts, jeans, purses, jewelry, shoes, etc. go to support women’s support and life coaching programs. They just expanded into a new larger space that has an open airy boutique feeling and displays of merchandise. On Tuesdays, the store is closed so that you can set up private shopping times with an appointment. On Thursdays they are open until 6:00 – so that you check it out and then come on over for our First Thursday Gatherings at Naps which is just a few blocks away. They are located at 1244 Main St. in Green Bay. website: www.sunriseonmain.com 920-857-1662.


Mani Fit Alteration – If you find that perfect dress or outfit that is just a bit too big and you need a good seamstress – go to Mani-Fit Alteration. The shop is run by a wonderful woman
who is very trans friendly and has helped several trans girls at reasonable prices. Located in a small strip mall at 2301 Holmgren Way in Green Bay. (across from Penny’s on Holmgren Way) 920-301-3267 or 920-465-4800.
Nells Wigs – a local wig shop that has served a few members of the trans community, but their primary clientele are women who have lost their hair due to chemotherapy. The owner, Stacie is very nice. A couple of trans girls have been well served there. They have a nice selection of wigs and will do a great fitting for you in a private room. However, prices tend to be at the high end – $200 or more per wig. If price isn’t a concern, then make an appointment and enjoy. Located at 2031 S. Webster Ave, Suite B in Green Bay 920-393-4912 www.nellswigsbouttique.com


Voga Wigs and Hair Add Ons – Have communicated with them via email and they indicate that they would be more than happy to help members of the trans community. They have a private room and a wide selection. They noted that price range for a synthetic wig was from $260 – $700, synthetic/human hair blends go from $900 – $1100 and human hair is $1200 to $4000. They also will wash, condition and restyle wigs. Online their fees are about $40 – $50 for these services. Green Bay Location : 900 S. Military Ave. 920- 884-8642 – Appleton location: 1250 Westhill Blvd 920-882-8642.
http://vogawigs.com

Academy of Beauty Professionals – This is a training school for Beauty Professionals. As such all services are provided by students under the careful supervision of teachers. As a result, the cost for a full makeover is less than $20.00. A couple of girls have gone there, staff are very open to serving the trans community and they do a nice job. Call ahead for an appointment. Locations in Green Bay at 2575 West Mason St. (across from Oneida Casino) 920-857-1081 and Appleton – 525 North Westhill Blvd – 920-815-3375.

The Aesthetic Spa – Hair Removal –– Robin Smet has been doing laser and electrolysis treatments for trans women for many years. 2372 S. Oneida St. GB – 920-497-6246.


Milan Laser Hair Removal – Board certified, has been in the business many years, very trans friendly and experienced. 2476 S. Oneida – 920-569-0927 https://milanlasergreenbay.com/

Wisconsin Laser Center – 100% transgender owned and operated. Specializes in laser hair removal, body sculpting, tattoo removal. Located in Neenah 1075 S. Lake St., Suite 105 920-245-3741.
https://www.wisconsinlasercenter.com


Photography Girl – A very trans friendly professional photographer who has a private studio located in downtown Neenah. Rates are very reasonable. If interested in more information and to set up an appointment email her at XOXOYoursPhotography@gmail.com

The Nepalese Lounge – Highly recommended. Home for the CD/TG First Thursday of the Month Gathering. A classic “gay neighborhood bar”. All are welcome here, young and old, straight, gay, trans, etc. Pub food menu with Friday Fish Fry. Reasonably priced drinks. Place you can meet and chat. Drag shows the third Thursday of each month. Open mic talent shows the first Friday of each month. Located in Green Bay at 1351 Cedar St. – just east of downtown GB. https://www.napalese.com

Rascals – Another nice neighborhood like gay bar. Wide age range. Have pub menu and in summerhave nice outdoor back patio. Located in Appleton at 702 E. Wisconsin Avenue 920-954-9262
http://Rascalsbar.com


Amphora Wine Bar – A high class recently opened upscale remodeled art deco place with lots of atmosphere, good wine list and excellent cocktails. Also has one of the most interesting menus in Green Bay. The February 2020 CD/TG Super Saturday stopped there, and we were welcomed with a free round of drinks. Back patio open in summer. 131 N. Broadway in Green Bay. 920-391-5417.


Re Mixx – a larger venue that is well known for its Saturday drag shows, good food and drinks, DJ on Friday and Saturday nights, Karaoke, etc. Always trans friendly. Located west of Neenah. Take the Winchester Road exist west off Hwy 41 to State Road 76 – head South address is 8386 State Road 76 –Neenah. 920-725-6483.


Dr Jekyll’s – Classic neighborhood dive bar that is close to Lawrence University and has a college energy vibe to it. Home of the monthly Lawrence University LGBTQIA + Pride Network social from 5:00– 8:00 on the Second Thursday of each month. Has pinball, skee ball, nice outdoor smoking patio. Great craft beer selection. 314 College Ave in Appleton.


XS Nightclub – If you are looking for a pulsating high energy place to dance – this is the place for you. Two stories, the lower level is usually a crowed dance floor and the second floor is a bar that overlooks the dance floor. It’s referred to as a gay bar – but while it is gay and trans friendly, there are probably more straight younger people. All are welcome. 1106 Main St. in Green Bay – 920-351-3024.

Scoreboard Grille – Classic no frills sports bar with reasonably priced drinks, burgers and beer. or those who want to grab a bite to eat before hitting the town we’ve been there without incident with 15 t-girls. Others have gone dressed and never had a problem. 2511 W. Mason St. in Green Bay. (across from Oneida Casino on Mason St.) 920-770-5586
http://www.scoreboardgrillecom.com


No Limits – A gay bar that is trans friendly, tends to have a younger crowd. Periodic drag shows and sometimes drag queens as bar enders. 500 N. Baird St. in Green Bay – 920-489-2484

Aardvark Wine Lounge – a small unique eclectic artsy cozy place with a unique pour yourself selection of wines to taste. Can order pairings of meats and cheeses to go along with your wine tasting. More of a straight bar but do drag brunches and trans girls have stopped there and have felt welcome. 304 Pine Street (next to Northland Hotel) in downtown Green Bay 920-737-7563

Love, Hannah

Ask Hannah!

by Hannah

I am making a contact sheet of resources for a friend of mine that cross dresses. Is there any resources you would highly recommend? Mental health, books to read, people to watch on YouTube or to follow on social media. He’s not looking for forums or dating sites, and that’s all I really come up with from search engines. Thank you!

Aren’t you sweet?

There are a ton of resources out there and so much depends on what your friend is looking for.


Some of us are really conflicted and confused and scared of who we are and what they want, or want to wear.  Some of us are wondering what this all means.  It kind of throws everything we know, or think we know about our whole sense of identity (gender and sexual among others) into question.  We may feel alone when it comes to this side of us.  If your friend is looking for support and friendship I would recommend looking for a local PFLAG group as well as reading and posting on crossdressers.com and transgenderheaven.com.  


Your friend will likely see that gender identity is different from one person to the next.  And even if your friend “just” crossdresses, there is a shift in gender identity from cis to transgender.  Your friend may not consider themselves transgender, and every transperson is different.  My identifying as transgender is different than Laverne Cox or many of my friends identifying as transgender.  Transgender doesn’t mean hormones, surgery or anything else.  It simply means (in my opinion) wearing or doing something that is outside the norms of societal gender behavior.  A boy wearing nail polish?  Trans.  Me wearing a nightgown?  Trans.  A drag queen?  Trans.  

Sorry, getting off topic.


If your friend is looking for help when it comes to mental help, please encourage them to speak with a gender therapist.


If your friend is looking for resources when it comes to finding clothes, there are many options out there.  En Femme, The Breast Form Store, Glamour Boutique, HommeMystere and Xdress are some of my favorites.  Make sure they know their measurements.  Of course, one does not need to limit their shopping options to designers who make beautiful, feminine clothes for the typical male body.  I have just as many dresses from DressBarn and Target as I do from the businesses I listed.


When it comes to books, I loved ‘The Lazy Crossdresser’ by Charlie Jane Anders.  This is a practical and light guide to wearing “girl clothes” and had a huge impact on me when I read it for the first time.  This might be out of print but you can usually find almost anything online.


In terms of social media, your friend will find that there are a lot of people like us who wear what we wear for a lot of reasons.  My Twitter followers, and who I follow on Twitter range from fetishists (I don’t follow people that are… aroused by this) to activists to gross horny dudes looking to hook up (I don’t follow them either) drag queens, makeup artists, to people like me who simply love to wear pretty clothes.  Some of the girls I follow online can be found in T-Girl Spotlight.

Well girls? Anything you think might help? Please comment!


Love, Hannah

Have a question for me?  Oh yes you do.  Ask me here!

MN T-Girls and T-Grilling

by Hannah

This past weekend the MN T-Girls had our monthly social event. A typical summer always has a patio party but I think it’s safe to say that this summer has been anything but typical.

The group took a few months off earlier this year but we started to meet a few months ago and have been keeping our events outside as much as possible. Luckily a member of our group, the always fashionable and fabulous Marcia invited us over for a potluck barbecue.

It was a lovely way to spend an early autumn evening, filled with friends and the smell of yummy food and the warmth of a bonfire.

It’s sometimes sad to see summer go, but this was a wonderful way to say goodbye to it.

Love, Hannah

LGBTQ+ Resources in New York

by Hannah

If you know of a social/support group, a transformation service, or an organization in your state that would be of interest to our community, please drop me a line with that information and links and I will be happy to post it!

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Buffalo Belles

‘The Buffalo Belles’ is a social support group for transgendered persons in the Buffalo, NY area. We are a group dedicated to sharing our thoughts, feelings, and hopes in life. We are strongly dedicated in creating a peaceful, private, and safe environment in which we can communicate, understand one another, and in doing so better understand ourselves.

Love, Hannah

 

LGBTQ+ Resources in Oregon

by Hannah

If you know of a social/support group, a transformation service, or an organization in your state that would be of interest to our community, please drop me a line with that information and links and I will be happy to post it!

Project Unity at Crossdresser Heaven is also an amazing resource!

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The Rose City T-Girls

The Rose City T-Girls have been established since November, 2007. We pride ourselves on earning respect from the entire community around us through our actions.

We have had activities with over a 100 participants and many times 30 or more. Our activities range from golf tournaments to weekly outings and annual trips to the Diva Las Vegas get together.

We are a very diverse group that ranges from cross dressers to fully transitioned male to female girls. We have had multiple girls complete their transition from start to finish at the same time helping and supporting others transition along the way.

 We are confident we will continue to grow and support the community in all ways. It is exciting to see so many girls that have had the opportunity to find themselves as a result of the group.

 We are and always will be Proud to be Transgender.

Over the Rainbow Transformations

My name is Victoria Sinclair. I am the owner and operator of Over the Rainbow Transformations. I have over 20 years of experience providing transformation experiences to crossdressers and transgender women. And I enjoy my work very much! 🙂
This all started with my helping some friends refine their looks. It then became a part time career, and eventually worked its way into my heart so deeply that I had to do it full time! I am dedicated to continuing to make this place the very best it can be, and to learning all I can in order to help you achieve your goals. 
We host events, go out on the town, and generally get you out to wherever you’d like to go! There are shopping trips, movie and game nights, clubbing, NWGA events, and so much more….  
We offer other services and products as well, to help you become “The Girl You’ve Always Wanted To Be”. I truly care about my girls, and always want them to look and feel their very best. It is so fulfilling to watch you blossom before my eyes, on the outside, into the woman you have always felt like on the inside!
I hope I can be of assistance to you on your journey. Whether that journey is just around the corner (crossdressing occasionally or regularly), or all the way home ( complete gender reassignment), I am here for you.