We sit down with Laurel Paschke, owner of In the Garden of Eden – The Spice of Life, for this exclusive Q&A.
Q. When did you open and what inspired you to open In the Garden of Eden?
A. I opened on May 13, 2016. I saw a need in our great town for a tasteful and comfortable place for females and couples to shop to enhance their relationships.
Q. Can you tell me about the types of products and services In the Garden of Eden offers?
A. We carry lingerie sizes Small-4X including corsets, bath and body products including massage oils, bachelorette party supplies, and more!
Q. How would you describe In the Garden of Eden to future customers?
A. It is our number one priority that our store is a comfortable and safe place for everyone no matter who you love. Everyone has a unique and personalized experience in our store!
Q. Are there any misconceptions about your business that you’d like to clarify?
A. Historically speaking, stores for couples are known for being an uncomfortable place for many folks. Our store is always clean, bright, and welcoming to everyone. Our team is knowledgeable and very easy to talk to.
Q. What advice do you have for individuals or couples who are new to shopping at In the Garden of Eden?
A. Don’t be shy and even if you are come by and see us. We will take good care of you and answer all of your questions.
Q. How do you foster a non-judgmental and inclusive environment for all customers?
A. Everything that is discussed here stays here. We keep your secrets and believe nobody needs to know your business.
Q. What do you love about owning a Storefront in downtown Kenosha?
A. The history of the area, age and beauty of the architecture, the nearness to our gorgeous lake, and all the events hosted Downtown.
Q. What are the main challenges you face in running a local small business?
A. The economy is a challenging environment for many right now. You can make a difference by shopping at a local small business today!
Q. In what ways do you engage with the community, such as through sponsorships, events, or charitable activities?
A. We are a local participant in the Warming Chest Program for the third year in a row and have sponsored Kenosha Pride for the last two years. Pride=Love
WEB EXTRA W/ LAURAL
Q. What’s your go-to comfort food?
A. Mexican food, I could eat it every day there are so many delicious options!
Q. Beach vacation or mountain getaway?
A. Mountain getaway in Wyoming.
Q. What’s your favorite movie genre?
A. I adore old movies, especially musicals. They can positively lift the spirit when you are feeling down!
Q. Do you prefer mornings or evenings?
A. I have only been a morning person when absolutely necessary, lol.
IQ. f you could have any superpower, what would it be?
A. Ever since I was small I have had, and continue to have, dreams of being able to fly.
Q. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
A. Forgive yourself. You were doing the best that you could at the time.
In The Garden of Eden is located at 711 56th Street
262-455-7502
Follow In the Garden of Eden on FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM
Learn more about Laurel & In the Garden of Eden by listing to her appearance on Kenosha’s #1 Podcast the KTOWN CONNECTS PODCAST.
Listen links Apple • Spotify
Q&A and photos by Donny Stancato
(This article first appeared in Vol 16. #4 2023/24 Go Downtown Kenosha Magazine)
Check out the current Go Downtown Kenosha Magazine CLICK HERE https://bit.ly/1GoDtMG2023
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