January 2024 – Lilly Pad Boutique

Pictured left to right: Amber Basham, Chamber Ambassador with Life Care Center of Rochester; Rhonda Holt; Chamber President Taylor Showley; Kimberlie Landis; Dan Dumonlin; Owner Keitha Kunkle; Chamber Board Member Matt Marrs; Stacy Odell; Mayor Trent Odell; City Councilwoman Amy Roe; and Chamber Director Jillian Smith.

Please enjoy this interview with Owner Keitha Kunkle:

What is your favorite part about owning your own business?

One of my favorite things about owning my own business is helping people find the perfect outfit for the perfect occasion. The most important thing is to love what you are doing, I love meeting new people and making new friends. Another one of my favorite things is that Lake Manitou is an awesome place to have a business. No matter the season, whether it is sunny or cloudy, it is beautiful! Many customers visit from the lakeside to shop as well, Lilly pad is a laid back, fun place to shop.

What was your inspiration?

I believe my inspiration stemmed from back when I was a junior or senior. I worked at a boutique in Portland, Indiana and I loved working with customers, sales, and clothes of course! My next paycheck was always going toward my new wardrobe.

What advice would you give a young entrepreneur?

My advice would be to be confident in what you choose to begin. Don’t let anyone tell you it is going to be easy, it is hard work. Never be afraid to talk to people that are in the same field as you. You must also be able to put a lot of yourself into what you are doing. Follow your dreams, America is where you can become what you want.

Why did you choose to invest in Fulton County?

We came from Howard County and made our home here in 2019 after remodeling our lake cottage. We purchased this location in 2020 with several ideas in mind. There were so many opportunities in Rochester. After some decision making, we started our journey and Lilly Pad was opened in 2021. We have expanded three times and added two other businesses to our building, Awakened Massage and Wild Aesthetics. Roots Yoga also offers yoga on the deck in the summertime. In 2023 we added Lilly Pad boat rentals, kayak rentals and paddle board rentals. We love Rochester and our community. If it weren’t for the support from the community small businesses would not survive. Thank you for everyone’s support!

What is one of your favorite items that Lilly Pad Boutique carries?

Lilly Pad carries several different brands of clothing, but my most favorite items are the Lake Manitou items, which include sweatshirts, T-shirts, cups, coasters, blankets, pillows, wine glasses.. Lilly Pad is always trying to come up with new designs!

  Why should Fulton County residents choose Lilly Pad Boutique?

Lilly Pad has a lot to offer the community. Lake Manitou brings many visitors from out of town to the community. We cater to the lake because of our location, we offer boat slips to customers who come in off the lake as well as pontoon rentals. We also love to have entertainment on the deck in the summer. Our deck is a great place for hosting occasions or just hanging out. We invite all to come out and join the fun at Lilly Pad and Lake Manitou. We are still growing to better serve Fulton County and we are always open to new ideas.