Portrait of a Lady - Robin Vaughn

Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Davenport, IA. I went to college at St. Ambrose University and moved to Galena, IL in 1991.

What did you do before?
Well, I've only had a few jobs before opening the boutique in 1994. I was a cashier, waitress, bartendar, can-can girl, executive secretary (yes, in that order :D), and accessory specialist. Many of these jobs I did in conjunction with one another to make ends meet to pay for college, feed babies, and indulge in an occasional pedicure.

What brought you to your current position?
My mother. While I was a bit skeptical when she asked me if I'd like to open a women's boutique with her, she insisted that it was pretty much the same as decorating a house... "you'd just be 'decorating women' instead" was her reply, and that was good enough for me.

What has been the most interesting aspect of your work?
The most interesting aspect of my work would have to be forecasting. Sometimes I am scared to death at market hoping other women will also love what I think will be THE hot look... AND... choosing those items 6 months (or two seasons) in advance.

What has been your biggest challenge?
Definitely balancing motherhood, wife, and store owner. While I'm a bit better at it than when I was in my 20's, I'm constantly trying to keep my priorities in check.

Tell me about your family.
This is an easy one. :) I am married to John, "John of Robin" he often jokes, who is a barge pilot on the Ohio, Illinois and Mississippi Rivers. He is incredibly supportive of my business. So much, that I'm sure I couldn't do it without him. We have two incredibly loving, smart and compassionate boys, Connor (17) and Evan (15). They attend Tri-State Christian School in Galena and are involved in soccer, school plays, basketball, and leadership classes. We also have two girls, Emma Daisy (3), and Miss Sasha Shileds (4) who are two of the cutest mutts you will ever see. :)

Any pets?
No. Our girls are considered family. :D

Who are you inspired by?
I am inspired by women who do hard things because they are the right thing to do. Any woman. The older I get, the more I realize that the road less traveled is a difficult one at times, but also the most rewarding journey in the long run. I recognize these woman and seek to be around them.

Favorite Movie?
Don't Laugh. Lion King... I said, don't laugh! :D I love this movie because there are so many good lessons in it, the music is foot-tapping fun, and it reminds me of my kids when they were little. (I would give anything to have them back when they were 2 and 4 :)

What is in your refrigerator?
Ha! Besides, the science projects of Tupperware leftovers in the back, (serious!), we love wraps so we have a ton of fresh vegetables, yogurt (prefer fruit on the bottom, but can never find it!), at least 2 gallons of milk for my growing boys, half-eaten cookie dough (argh! I have to make the cookies right away or the dough is gone!), and tons of condiments (I often call myself "The Condiment Queen".

If you could invite anyone to a dinner party dead or alive, who would you invite?
That's easy. I would invite Jesus. He's the man. Trust me on this one. :) Although I talk to Him daily, I do have a few questions that I would like to ask in person and I know he would have the perfect answers for me and my family.

What is your favorite vacation spot?
Anywhere exotic with a beach. I'm secretly packed in my head all the time "just in case". (I also look great in my swimsuit and have a fruity drink in hand :)

Your favorite pastime is....
This week... it's ballroom dancing with my boys. Last week... it was learning how to sew. The week before that it was reading. The week before that.. I can't remember but I'm sure it was fun! I love trying new things and experimenting with new hobbies. In the Summer you will see me on the golf course... that is my favorite, fair weather pastime.

What has been your largest personal challenge?
Fear of failing, mostly I think. Although, I know from past experience that it isn't the end of the world and it makes you a stronger person, builds character, and keeps you grounded, I still hate the prospect of it.

What are you most proud of?
My boys. They are growing into perfect gentlemen and I have my husband to thank for that as well.

Are you living your dream?
Not quite, but I'm getting there. In the meantime, I'm enjoying the journey.