Importance of similar sexual preferences?

Yes, it most likely would put a strain on it. Sex is important, so to be compatible in that area is important also.

Well as long as they have a open mind on how to try new things then I'm cool. I mean I personally its a pretty big deal because it is so frustrating so much when you don't get what you need sexually in a relationship and your still with them out of love but so not sexually satisfied. Then you start thinking of other women or men ya know? Because its our human nature to experience pleasure and when we don't we tend to take it out on the other person because we want that from them and they don't provide it. As long as you can communicate things and work them out its all good, there is all kinda way to get off with a partner.

You're talking compatibility here. Sexual compatibility to be specific. Yes, it would put a strain on the relationship. You're denying yourself something that you enjoy for the sake of other aspects of the relationship, but you will regret it in the future.

I was in a relationship like this once. Tried doing the talking thing about needs and such, but what it came down to was that I wanted something (oral, as in your case) and she didn't want to do it. It's a stalemate.

My initial thinking was that it was no big deal. Other aspects of the relationship were good. Well, as time went by, I found myself becoming more obsessed with the oral and not receiving it and it started to affect the relationship. Just an example of how, in my case anyway, it did strain (and eventually end) the relationship.

Come to think of it never thought about it that way. If the compliment part comes in then all the suspense in love making is lost.

I have had numerous flings over the years, rather outcomes of night outs or perhaps one night stands. And we both have always enjoyed if the only thing in our minds was sex.

Everything can be worked out by talking - "be oral to give oral" ;-)

Similar sexual preferences are really important to me. If not, its like trying to decide to do something with someone you have no common interests with. Only generally if you are seeing someone neither of you can't (or rather should) be getting those needs/things you enjoy fulfilled elsewhere. Even simple things like how often each of you wants sex can be a factor for friction.
You can love someone and try to accommodate them, but in the end if you aren't comfortable or if someone isn't getting what they want or doing something they don't enjoy, I think there is going to be a some resentment and unhappiness.