An adult store is celebrating its fifth year anniversary at its Hamilton location.

It has been a slow road for Judyann Bean since opening Exotic Creations five years ago in the Cedar Parkade, the building across from the bus terminal.

Although she has seen some challenges along the way, she always remained positive.

“My friend Judith Burgess really inspired me to keep going when things were going slow and I felt like giving up,” Mrs Bean said.

“She always told me that when it is slow having one customer can make your whole day, so days when its dead slow I remember this which keeps me motivated to carry on.”

Mrs Bean developed a passion for lingerie in her younger years and her dream has always been to open a store.

She believes that although Bermuda has become more comfortable over the years with the industry, some people are still a bit conservative and even shy.

“We have a few runners that come here, meaning people who send other people to pick up some of the adult toys and other items which they are too shy to come and get themselves,” she said.

The shop originally started off selling lingerie but has evolved into oils, scents, hosiery and a discreet adult toy section.

“Our most popular item being sold, besides the lingerie, are the male enhancement pills,” Mrs Bean said.

For Halloween, customers can purchase costumes and masks. She also notices a boost in sales around some landmark dates. “Christmas, Halloween and Valentine’s Day are when we get really busy,” she said.

Right now Mrs Bean is working the store herself but has help from her friend Mary Simons, who decorates the premises.

She believes that what differentiates her store from others is the unique layout. “The shop looks like a sensual bedroom setting. It has curtains and it’s very cozy and relaxed,” she said.

Her family has been a big inspiration and help for her. “I would love to thank my brother Neville Cann and my husband, Wayne Bean and children.”

Away from the store, Mrs Bean sings and writes poetry. “I sell my CDs here at the store and my sons also recently graduated as producers,” she added.

Mrs Bean would also like to be more involved in the community and wants to inspire young people to keep their dreams alive.

“Conquer your dreams, don’t let it die, always pursue it, continue to try,” a quote from one of her poems from the book Words With The Magic Touch.

The store’s opening hours are Monday to Saturday, from 9am to 4:30pm.