For OnlyFans star Emily Mai, Christmas is a day of juggling roles. As she gathers around the tree with her children, their eyes wide with anticipation of Santa's treasures, Emily is also engaging with her online subscribers. Her mornings are filled with the laughter of her kids and the soft chime of notifications as she sends premade videos to her eager fans.
Emily, a 36-year-old based in Melbourne, has embraced this dual life for nearly seven years, never taking a day off, not even on Christmas. "I let them open a few presents, and then we have a break. They play with their toys, and I make a cup of tea and answer their messages. I don’t want these men to feel neglected on Christmas day," she shares.
“There are guys who are married and have kids but just need a moment to themselves on Christmas morning,” Emily explains.
Despite her success, Emily faces challenges with her traditional Asian family, who prefer to overlook her career choices. "Sex is really taboo in the Asian community so it’s swept under the rug at Christmas dinner," she admits. Yet, her work allows her to provide for her family and secure her children's future.
Fellow OnlyFans creator Alix Lynx shares a similar sentiment of avoiding family discussions about her work while still financially supporting them. Alix, who spends her holidays near her family in upstate New York, ensures she balances family time with her thriving online career.
Alix, 36, began her career in the adult industry in 2012 and has since transitioned into creating content for her subscribers. She rents an off-grid Airbnb to stay near family, while also maintaining her connection with fans. "I offer a girlfriend experience where I talk to my subscribers and offer them a POV video," she says.
Her holiday season is as busy as ever, with requests for festive-themed content like Mrs. Claus role-play. Yet, she cherishes moments with her family, sipping champagne on Christmas Eve and enjoying a big brunch on Christmas morning.
"The hustle never stops," Alix remarks, "I just get more savvy this time of year and bank posts for when I’m away with family."