Paper Moon Magic
On Tuesday morning, our Silver Creek Area CEO class stepped into Paper Moon in Mascoutah—and immediately felt wrapped in warmth. The smell of hot cider filled the air as entrepreneur Kim Kilgore greeted us with the kind of genuine smile that makes you feel at home the moment you walk in.
The students wandered the shop with wide eyes, taking in every corner of this charming little gem—freeze-dried candy, specialty teas and coffees, handcrafted pieces, cute clothing, jewelry, and rows of hilariously honest cards. If you’re hunting for a unique gift, this place deserves a top spot on your list. The cozy, historic vibe is as much a part of the experience as the items themselves.
As we settled in with cider and mini muffins, Kim began sharing her entrepreneurial journey… and it wasn’t the backstory any of us expected from such a peaceful setting.
Before candles, crafts, and community, Kim was a prosecuting attorney in St. Louis—a fiercely successful one. She told stories of long nights in law school, major wins in the courtroom, and the relentless pressure of cases involving child abuse, sexual assault, murder, and public officials. She recounted the 2 a.m. crime-scene calls, the trauma she carried, and the moment she realized the work was costing her more than it was giving. After the Ferguson riots, she knew something had to change. Her mental health was suffering, her safety was a concern, and as a wife and mother, the weight was falling on her family too.
The paycheck was big, but the price was bigger.
Kim pivoted—first into roles at SIUE in Title IX and then to WashU, working as an Investigator for the office of anti-discrimination. She learned collaboration. She learned the power of a good team. She learned that technology can be a friend. But she also learned that scars don’t fade just because we move forward.
Crafting became her therapy. And slowly, the idea she’d carried for years—owning a little antique or craft shop—began to take shape. When the time was right, she pushed the dream forward.
Paper Moon was born.
A safe space. A creative space. A community space.
She now hosts events for local makers, offers classes, and gives people a place to breathe again.
And as a surprise for our students?
She guided all three tables in making candles! So fun!! And Kim added a challenge. Since so much of being a small business is about giving back— each group chose a cause, a scent and a name for their team’s candles. Once the candles have fully cured Kim will sell their candles in her store—with the proceeds going to the charity they selected. A little friendly competition… fueled by kindness. ❤️
Kim reminded our students that entrepreneurship isn’t always about a big paycheck. Sometimes you’re the owner, the janitor, the bookkeeper, and the candle maker all in one. But when you have joy, peace, and balance—that is success.
Oh—and she’s also a children’s author, with two books: Boo in the Lou and Behind the Ferry Door. Because of course she is.
We are so grateful to Kim for opening her doors, sharing her incredible story, and pouring so much heart (and candle wax) into our visit.
What a gift to spend a morning inside Paper Moon.
