The festive season, a time of tradition and family gatherings, presents unique challenges for a polyamorous triad residing in Northern Colorado. Alana, 27, Kevin, 33, and Megan, 37, affectionately dubbed “Camp Throuple” on their popular Instagram account, navigate the complexities of their relationship during the holidays, opting for digital celebrations with their families to avoid awkward encounters and potential misunderstandings. Their unconventional love story, which began with Alana and Kevin’s five-year relationship expanding to include Megan to explore Kevin’s bisexuality, has garnered significant attention, both positive and negative, as they challenge societal norms and redefine the concept of family. This Christmas, they choose to prioritize their own shared traditions and intimacy, highlighting the importance of intention and love in shaping meaningful celebrations, regardless of societal expectations.
The genesis of “Camp Throuple” began with Alana and Kevin’s desire to explore a non-monogamous relationship structure, prompted by Kevin’s curiosity about his bisexuality. Using the dating app 3Fun, designed for those seeking multi-partner relationships, they connected with Megan, and a spark ignited among the three. This led to the formation of their current throuple dynamic, a journey they’ve chosen to share publicly on Instagram, amassing a substantial following of over 200,000. Their open approach to their relationship allows them to connect with others who embrace similar lifestyles, while also exposing them to scrutiny and judgment from those who don’t understand or accept their choices. The decision to share their lives online serves as a platform to normalize polyamory and challenge traditional relationship structures, while simultaneously inviting commentary and criticism.
Navigating the holiday season as a throuple presents a unique set of challenges, primarily stemming from societal expectations and the traditional family structures deeply ingrained in holiday celebrations. Alana acknowledges the awkwardness and tension that can arise when they attend festive gatherings together, especially with family members less familiar with their polyamorous arrangement. The experience of being under scrutiny, feeling like the center of attention, and facing potential misunderstandings prompted them to adopt a different approach to holiday celebrations. Choosing to connect with their families virtually through video calls and gifts allows them to avoid potential conflicts and maintain a sense of harmony during the holidays. This decision underscores their prioritization of their internal relationship dynamic and their commitment to creating a comfortable and stress-free holiday experience for themselves.
Their choice to embrace digital communication with their families during the holidays isn’t a rejection of their families, but a carefully considered strategy to manage the complexities of their unconventional relationship within a largely traditional familial landscape. By opting for virtual connections, they create space for themselves to celebrate the holidays in a way that feels authentic and comfortable, free from the pressure of navigating potentially uncomfortable social situations. This approach also allows them to devote their undivided attention to their own shared traditions and celebrations as a throuple, reinforcing their bond and celebrating their unique family structure. Their decision reflects a thoughtful approach to balancing their own needs with the sensibilities of their extended families.
Christmas Day for “Camp Throuple” involves creating their own traditions, focusing on shared experiences and simple pleasures like a trip to the cinema and cozying up at home in matching onesies. Even their sleeping arrangements, including the nightly rotation for “middle spoon” privileges, are addressed with a systemized approach, embodying the playful and organized nature of their relationship dynamic. Their chosen moniker, “Camp Throuple,” reflects this playful dynamic, suggesting a sense of adventure, fun, and a shared identity. Their holiday celebrations, while different from traditional family gatherings, are deeply meaningful and centered around the love and connection they share. They exemplify the idea that holidays can be celebrated in diverse ways, prioritizing the intention and emotional connection over adherence to societal norms.
Kevin’s mention of critics and their pronouncements of eternal damnation reveals the judgment they sometimes face, highlighting the prejudices that still surround non-traditional relationships. Their response, however, is laced with humor and defiance. The lighthearted assertion that “Santa Claus doesn’t discriminate” serves as a witty retort, suggesting that love and acceptance should prevail over judgment and prejudice, especially during a season traditionally associated with goodwill and compassion. Their resilience in the face of criticism underscores their commitment to their chosen lifestyle and their belief in the validity of their love. By focusing on their own happiness and the strength of their bond, they effectively neutralize negative external influences. Their story offers a powerful message: choosing to embrace love and connection in a way that feels authentic, regardless of societal expectations, is a testament to the evolving definition of family.
