Happy Meet Us Monday! Today we’ll be introducing you to Maddie Stokes, a Sales Associate from the Jewel Box, who has worked at Paddington since October of 2021.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in the Bay area and lived there my whole life before coming to school here at SOU. I’ve been coming to Ashland every year since I was ten with my family and it’s always been a great place to be. I have family friends up here that make it feel like home!
What is something about you that would surprise people?
I grew up road tripping and have been to over thirty national park properties! A very meaningful trip was with my mom when we drove cross-country to the deep south to learn more about Black history and slavery. My favorite national park was the Redwoods because I have a love of trees and I loved how close it was to the coast as well.
What is the best meal you ever had?
The Pad Thai at Happy Thai Express is to die for! I get it as often as I can and it’s a treat every time I have the opportunity to go.
What is your favorite time of year?
I definitely love Fall, it was what brought me to Ashland as well. The trees are just beautiful!
Where is your favorite spot in Ashland?
I love the environment downtown because there are so many people, wonderful places to eat, and things to do, especially this time of year! I love showing it off to people when they come to visit.
What are some of your hobbies?
I took a drawing class in school this year! I used to doodle when I was younger, but I definitely wanted to find a more creative side of me and have been trying to get more into it. Now that school is out, I’ve also started reading a lot more for pleasure! I like romance novels and John Green’s “The Fault in Our Stars” is what made me fall in love with books when I was younger.
Tell me about your favorite pet you’ve ever had.
I’ve had quite a few, including many dogs and cats and even a pigeon named Ruby. The closest relationship with a pet I’ve had is with my dog back home, Heidi. She’s a Doberman and Greyhound and a very sassy girl, but also very cuddly and sweet. She’s a giant lap dog!
Who has been the most influential person in your life?
I’m very close with my mom, she’s taught me a lot. She has her own photography business and has spent the last few years working on it and rebranding. She’s very resilient and I look up to her so much.
What is a mantra you like to live by?
“If it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be.” I’ve realized that if someone isn’t going my way now, it will happen in the future if it’s meant to be. I’m trying to be more present in that and accept what is.
What is your favorite thing about working at Paddington Station?
I love my fellow employees and coworkers. I also really like that we can build a connection with the customers and try to help find them their best option whether it’s a dress or a necklace. Even some of the people that I’ve only gotten to work with once have sometimes made a really big impact on my life!
