When Kylie Baker first stepped into adult retail, it wasn’t part of a long-term career plan. It was a favor, a simple act of support for a friend who needed help covering shifts. Nearly 12 years later, that moment has evolved into a leadership career defined by adaptability, resilience and a people-first approach.
At the time, Baker had no experience in adult retail. Her background was in the restaurant industry, and the transition into a new, often misunderstood sector came with its share of nerves. However, since her son was in kindergarten at that time, she was able to venture into this new area of her career.
Within the first year, I moved up quickly and began overseeing all six locations and assisting them.
What started as a temporary role soon evolved into something more. In just a few months, Baker showed a natural talent for operations and leadership, catching the company's attention.
“By February, I was managing a store; by July, I was working in the corporate office,” she recalls. “Within the first year, I moved up quickly and began overseeing all six locations and assisting them.”
That rapid ascent wasn’t just about ambition. It was driven by a willingness to step in wherever needed and figure things out along the way. Baker became deeply involved in multiple facets of the business.
“I assisted with launching our first website,” she says. “When we began operating under the Risqué Moments name — we were originally Intimate Treasures — I built our entire warehouse for the website on top of all my other duties.”
Her role expanded further when the company integrated its stock management system.
“When we linked our inventory to National Video’s live inventory, I also dismantled my warehouse, which was an entire store,” Baker explains. “I did all of this during my first seven years here.”
Reset and Rebuild
After years of rapid advancement, a change in company ownership marked a new chapter — one that required Baker to step back into a purely management role before moving forward again.
Rather than viewing the change as a setback, Baker embraced it as an opportunity to refine her leadership style.
“I never saw it as a demotion,” she emphasizes. “It was an opportunity to put everything I learned to the test and to bring my vision to life.”
Today, Baker serves as regional manager, overseeing all six Risqué Moments locations and supporting Risqué Moments’ sister store Allure in Tennessee.
She reflects on her journey and humbly credits those who have helped her along the way.
“I can never do it all alone,” she says. “Building a great team is important. Always work together, communicate, collaborate and support each other. That’s my style.”
Adaptability Is Key
If there’s a single throughline in Baker’s career, it’s adaptability. From learning a new industry on the fly to navigating operational shifts and ownership changes, she has consistently leaned into problem-solving.
“There’s always a way to fix a situation,” she says. “I roll with the punches. I take nothing personally, and I find a solution.”
That mindset has proven essential in a retail environment where no two days are the same, and where customer needs and industry standards continue to evolve.
“My role is to ensure team goals are executed efficiently and consistently,” Baker explains. “That requires being flexible and staying focused on solutions.”
Mentorship and Community
Like many women in the adult retail industry, Baker’s growth is driven by a network of mentors and peers who have shaped her perspective, both professionally and personally.
“My biggest mentor would be [the company’s former general manager] Vickie Springer,” she shares. “She inspired me to do better for myself. She gave me opportunities and taught me not only about the business and industry but also about life. She is a true mother figure.”
Baker also points to a circle of women in the industry who have offered support, inspiration and camaraderie along the way.
“Taylor Means, Kristin Zuri-GodsKind, Nicole Talley, and Blanca Estrada-Gonzalez,” she says. “So many wonderful moments together as women and mothers who understand how to balance it all.”
That sense of shared experience has reinforced Baker’s commitment to cultivating a supportive workplace culture where employees feel valued and empowered.
Reflecting on Progress
Over the past decade, Baker has observed significant changes in adult retail, particularly in how stores engage shoppers.
“Over the past 12 years, I’ve seen adult retail shift from a more transactional environment to a much more customer-focused and educational experience,” she says. “There’s been a big move toward normalizing conversations, creating a judgment-free space and emphasizing product knowledge. Customers today are more informed and expect professionalism and discretion.”
For Baker, adapting to this evolution has meant prioritizing training and communication at every level of the organization.
“As a woman in the industry, I’ve seen more opportunities for strong, empathetic leadership,” she adds. “I’ve adapted by focusing on team training and communication, and by creating an environment where both employees and customers feel comfortable and respected.”
Purpose-Driven Leadership
Ask Baker what she loves most about her role, and her answer comes back to people.
“It started with my customers, and as I moved into management, it’s extended to my employees as well,” Baker explains. “I want every location to be a safe place and for everyone to have the experience I’ve had. We really are a community. It’s important for us to light the way for others.”
Advice for the Next Generation
For women entering adult retail today, Baker sees opportunity, but also stresses the importance of professionalism.
“If you want to turn it into a career, focus on becoming someone the business can rely on,” she advises. “That means being consistent, learning the role inside and out and stepping up when needed.”
It’s advice rooted in her own experience — one that underscores that careers in adult retail are often built not on linear paths but on persistence, curiosity and a willingness to grow.
