Article Three

SM Head: Logan residents too timid to splurge at these businesses
Head: Adult novelty store seeing the effects of Utah culture first hand

By Judd Workman

Local business owner Erika Hansen specializes in “finding the best fit for couples in their love life," but has met opposition due to the Cache Valley culture.

Hansen, the owner of an adult novelty store called The Red Fox, has had the business for about four years, but only just opened the small boutique in February. Even though the shop is new, Hansen feels as though she is providing a service for a community that isn't accustomed to openly talking about adult products.

"A lot of times I have people come in and they're just really scared," Hansen said. "Sometimes they're even shaking. So I try to offer a very warm environment for them to come in and feel OK. And for the most part, that works."

Being located in a predominantly Christian community, The Red Fox, as well as the only other adult novelty store in town, Doctor John's, seem to bring out the tepidness in many local customers.

Sunny Anbesse, who worked at a Doctor John's store in Kentucky, explained that these types of stores are seen in a different light outside of Utah.

“In Kentucky people would come in and really know their stuff. They’d ask for specific things and just be really comfortable and open about it,” Anbesse said. "The vibe that people have here is entirely different."

Anbesse, who said she loves living in Logan, attributed the local residents' shy attitudes toward adult stores to the community's dominant beliefs.

"People here are a little more suppressed when it comes to things like this so they feel they have to be ashamed about it," Anbesse said. "I don't think it's fair, especially to women."

Hansen, who also enjoys being part of the Logan community, finds it challenging to present The Red Fox just right to the public. Some people aren't sure what her store is because she keeps mostly clothing toward the front. "That's to lure you in," Hansen said lightheartedly referring to her store arrangement.

"I think this store can provide a service this community really needs," Hansen said. "I've taken some of those people that come in shaking, talked with them, showed them some products then sent them out the door with a smile on their face and they don't feel bad. They feel good. And that's what I take home at the end of the day."