From festive lingerie and unforgettable gifts to Christmas traditions and a little advice for Santa, Laurel Paschke is bringing some extra spice to the holidays in Downtown Kenosha!
Who says holiday shopping has to be all sweaters, candles, and fuzzy socks?
Sometimes the best gifts come with a little surprise, a lot of laughter, and maybe even a wink or two!
That's exactly the kind of holiday fun you'll find at In the Garden of Eden in Downtown Kenosha.
Meet Laurel Paschke, the woman behind this locally owned boutique that celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2026!
Since opening her doors in May 2016, Laurel has worked to create something different: a comfortable, welcoming, and inclusive shopping experience where customers can explore products that promote confidence, body positivity, wellness, and healthy relationships.
And after a decade in business, Laurel is still helping Kenosha keep things interesting!
We caught up with her to talk about holiday shopping, Christmas traditions, supporting local businesses, and whether Santa should really be keeping that naughty-or-nice list.
Ten Years of Confidence, Connection & a Little Spice!
Tell us a little about yourself and what makes In the Garden of Eden special.
"My name is Laurel Paschke and I own In the Garden of Eden in Downtown Kenosha. We have been open for 10 years and have been grateful to be a service to the community. We provide health and wellness products, are passionate about body positivity, relationship diversity, and assisting couples in rekindling the romance in their relationships."
Before opening her business, Laurel spent more than 25 years working in corporate retail. Eventually, she decided to take a chance on something of her own.
Inspired by a shopping experience while visiting her sister in Missouri, Laurel recognized an opportunity to create a different kind of boutique in Kenosha.
She wanted a place where people could shop comfortably, ask questions without embarrassment, and feel accepted exactly as they are.
Ten years later, that commitment remains at the heart of her business.
What can someone expect when visiting In the Garden of Eden for the first time?
"As a female owned local small business it is essential to me that everyone who visits In the Garden of Eden knows they are in a welcoming and inclusive space."
And that's an important part of what sets the shop apart.
From lingerie in a wide range of sizes to bath and body products, bridal accessories, and adult novelty gifts, Laurel and her team provide personalized service in a friendly, judgment-free environment.
Whether you're a longtime customer or simply curious about what's inside, everyone is welcome!
Have Yourself a Naughty Little Christmas!
When the holidays arrive, Laurel makes sure her Downtown storefront gets into the spirit of the season.
How does In the Garden of Eden celebrate the holidays?
"We always have a fun and festive holiday window."
And inside, holiday shoppers will find plenty of opportunities to add a little excitement to their gift-giving!
What holiday specials or gift ideas should shoppers know about?
"We have holiday lingerie to help you have the happiest holiday ever! All hanging lingerie is Buy One Get One Half Off as well."
Looking for something that will get people talking at the holiday party?
Laurel has that covered, too!
What makes a great holiday gift from In the Garden of Eden?
"We have fun and interesting grab bag or white elephant gifts that will be the hit of the holiday party."
Let's face it, there's always that one gift at a white elephant exchange that everyone remembers.
This year, maybe it'll come from In the Garden of Eden!
Why should locals and visitors add your business to their holiday shopping plans?
"We are absolutely the most fun store Downtown. You do not want to miss us."
Well, you heard it from Laurel herself!
Shop Small, Have a Ball This Holiday Weekend!
Looking for another reason to make In the Garden of Eden part of your holiday shopping plans? Laurel has a little something extra in store for Thanksgiving weekend!
Whether you're heading Downtown for the City of Kenosha Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday, November 27, or celebrating Small Business Saturday on November 28, there's plenty of time to stop in, explore, and find something fun for everyone on your shopping list.
And here's the deal!
Buy One, Get One Half Off all hanging lingerie, sizes Small–4X, PLUS receive a FREE gift with purchase!
Thanksgiving Weekend Shopping Hours
- Friday, November 27 (City of Kenosha Tree Lighting): Noon–9 PM
- Saturday, November 28 (Small Business Saturday): Noon–9 PM
- Sunday, November 29: Noon–5 PM
From festive lingerie to unforgettable white elephant gifts, Laurel is ready to help make your holiday shopping a little more interesting.
After all, shopping small has never been so naughty and nice!
Oh, Christmas Tree! A Few Holiday Questions with Laurel
Of course, we couldn't let Laurel get away without answering some of our favorite holiday questions.
What's one holiday tradition you look forward to every year?
"I love decorating the tree. Each ornament is a memory of years of treasured times with family and friends."
There's something special about unpacking those ornaments each year and remembering the people, places, and moments connected to them.
And while Laurel enjoys keeping things playful at her shop, it's clear that family traditions hold a special place in her heart.
You're stuck listening to one Christmas song for 24 hours. What's your pick?
"Have a Holly Jolly Christmas from Rudolph by Burl Ives."
A classic choice!
And speaking of Christmas classics, we had to ask one more question.
If Santa stopped by your business, what would you want him to know?
"That naughty kids really are trying to be nice and deserve presents too."
We couldn't agree more!
After all, even Santa knows there's room for a little mischief during the holidays.
A Little Downtown Kenosha Love!
Beyond her business, Laurel is a longtime supporter of Downtown Kenosha and everything that makes it a special place to visit.
What do you love most about owning a business in Kenosha?
"I love Kenosha, especially Downtown Kenosha. It is such a beautiful part of our city with so many wonderful businesses and events all year long."
And when visitors come to town, Laurel has one destination she always recommends.
What's something every first-time visitor should experience?
"I always encourage folks visiting our city to make sure they check out our gorgeous lakefront. It is not to be missed."
We couldn't have said it better ourselves!
And if you're looking for a little food and fun after a day of Downtown shopping, Laurel has another recommendation.
What's one local business or hidden gem you'd encourage visitors to check out?
"My favorite little known fact is how amazing Kaiser's Nachos with roast beef are. I send people there all the time to get them and have a cocktail or two."
Holiday shopping, a walk along Lake Michigan, and some delicious nachos?
Sounds like a pretty great Kenosha afternoon to us!
Shopping Small Means Supporting Your Neighbors
After 10 years of running a business in Downtown Kenosha, Laurel knows firsthand how important community support can be.
Why is shopping local especially important during the holidays?
"Local small business owners appreciate your support so much! We are your neighbors, your friends, and our kids go to school together."
It's a simple reminder that behind every locally owned storefront is a person with a story, a dream, and a connection to the community.
For Laurel, those connections have helped make In the Garden of Eden part of Downtown Kenosha for an entire decade.
And when you shop local, you're helping businesses like hers continue to welcome customers, create experiences, and contribute to the character of our city.
Make Your Holidays a Little More Interesting!
Whether you're searching for a unique white elephant gift, shopping for something special, or just looking to explore one of Downtown Kenosha's most distinctive boutiques, In the Garden of Eden is ready to welcome you.
And remember, the holidays are the perfect time to shop local, discover something unexpected, and have a little fun along the way!
711 57th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
(262) 455-7502
Holiday Shopping Special: Buy One, Get One Half Off all hanging lingerie (sizes Small–4X), plus a FREE gift with purchase.
Thanksgiving Weekend Hours:
- Friday, November 27: Noon–9 PM
- Saturday, November 28 (Small Business Saturday): Noon–9 PM
- Sunday, November 29: Noon–5 PM
Learn more about In the Garden of Eden:
Read Laurel's 10th Anniversary Story Here:
Here's wishing everyone a holiday season that's merry, bright, and just the right amount of naughty!
