Putting A Bow On It: Q&A w/ Trista Jablonski, Owner Of To And From Gift Shop
To And From Gift Shop
“I am just excited and looking forward to the adventure.” – Trista
Gather ’round, gift enthusiasts, it is a true gift to talk with Trista Jablonski, the new owner of To and From Gift Shop. In this exclusive Go Downtown Kenosha interview we unwrap everything you need to know about the new owner Trista, and what she has in store for one of downtown Kenosha’s favorite shops To and From.
What inspired you purchase To and From Gift Shop?
Trista: I’m a people person, always have been. I used to be a hairstylist but I’ve been a stay at home mom for the last six years. My kids are going into school full time in the fall; this was the perfect opportunity for me to start doing something fun for me!
Can you tell us a little about yourself and then give us 3 fun facts about yourself.
Trista: I am a Kenosha native. Moved to Florida right out of high school where I met my husband. We moved back to Kenosha in 2017, had our kids. In 2021 we moved to Kentucky and just came back in fall of 2023. Guess we can’t stay away.
1. My hair doesn’t stay one color for long.
2. I love working out, shout out Burn Boot Camp.
3. I’ve been to the Taj Mahal.
Can you describe what products To and From offers?
Trista: We have things from candles, to cups, to soaps, shirts, cat and dog products, baby items. Really anything you can think of that’s quirky for special occasion. Don’t forget the cuss closet.
What do you love about being the new owner of To and From Gift Shop?
Trista: Hearing how loved the store is in the community and how excited everyone is that it’s staying open.
What sets your To and From apart from others gift shops?
Trista: The range of gifts from serious to quirky.
What are your short-term and long-term goals for the business?
Trista: Short term, really get to know our customers and the products they love. Long Term, get more local small businesses into the shop with their locally made products.
Will the famous cuss closet still be a part of To & From?
Trista: Absolutely!
What challenges do you anticipate facing in the retail business?
Trista: Adjusting to the ebs and flows of seasons.
Have you considered any potential partnerships or collaborations to help grow your business?
Trista: I have and will be continuing to expand that in the coming months.
How do you envision your business evolving or expanding in the future?
Trista: Continually growing with our client base and new products.
What advice would you give to others who are thinking about buying/starting their own business?
Trista: Jump in. Even if you’re scared, you’ll learn along the way.
What do you love about Downtown Kenosha?
Trista: There’s a little bit of everything to do on a weekend, date night, summer day, etc.
How has the community treated you so for as the new owner of To and From?
Trista: Wonderful, I can’t wait to be a recognized face for the store everyone loves!
How do you choose the products you sell in your shop?
Trista: Based off our customers history and what they’ve loved and we can’t wait to expand that with recommendations.
Why do you love about Downtown Kenosha?
Trista: It’s nostalgic and having my children a part of it now is exciting.
Do you feel any pressure taking over a highly loved business?
Trista: At first I did, now I am just excited and looking forward to the adventure.
How would you describe To and From Gift Shop in all 3 words?
Trista: Quirky. Homey. Fun.
What kind of vibe are you looking for with to and From gift Shop?
Trista: Welcoming, Relaxing, Fun shopping experience.
You are officially the third owner of To and From Gift Shop, do you have any connection or help from the previous owners?
Trista: The creator of To and From, Sam has been absolutely phenomenal and it has turned into a great friendship in just a few weeks.
What new things will we see at To and From Gift Shop under your new ownership?
Trista: More apparel, Jewelry, and Canned Gifts; which we cannot wait to show you!
How excited are you?
Trista: I think I’ve used that word about 100 times a day since this all began. So very!
Ok, now for some fun with some Kenosha questions:
What is the last great meal you had in Kenosha?
Trista: Brunch at Birchwood grill.
Favorite Kenosha event?
Trista: Fourth of July parade/fireworks
Favorite famous Kenoshan?
Trista: Korey Cooper because I loved skillet growing up.
Favorite local place to see a band?
Trista: Probably a church festival in the summer.
Favorite museum in Kenosha?
Trista: I have kids, so the dinosaur museum.
Favorite Pizza place in Kenosha?
Trista: Valeos
Which now-closed Kenosha business do you wish you could bring back?
Trista: Macs deli
What is one thing you wish you could change about Kenosha?
Trista: The weather LOL
Favorite cheese?
Trista: All of them?
What is must buy when you stop at Tenuta’s Deli?
Trista: Cannoli or stuff to make spaghetti
Big Star or the Spot?
Trista: Big Star
To and From Gift Shop is located at 5535 6th Ave.
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Q&A, Photos & Concept by Donny Stancato • Edited by Meridith Jumisko & Donny Stancato
