(photos by Victoria Lewis Manley)

Robin is the owner of Simply Elegant Boutique “Your life styled beautifully” on Main Street.

Galena Guide: Robin, thank-you for participating as a featured business . Each month we will be interviewing a Galena Business Owner to feature in this section. To help our audience get to know you better, can you please share with us a little about yourself?

Robin: “Anyone that really knows me would probably say I have a no-nonsense yet fun-loving and loyal personality possessed by a work-a-holic, classic over-achiever, “in-it-to-win-it” inner chick. And she is seriously busy, blessed and happy. Busy… doing what I love- creating a retail space that invites and excites, Blessed… by a loving, supportive husband, kids and friends too numerous to name, and happy… to be living my dream in beautiful Galena, IL.”

Galena Guide: What are two things that you think people would be surprised to know about you?

Robin: “You may be surprised to know that I’m quite shy and really don’t like being the center of attention. (Which is why I rarely model in fashion shows.) 🙂
You may also be surprised to know that my guilty pleasure is watching the Nightly News with Lestor Holt. I’m rarely home by 5:30, but I tape it and will watch it around midnight when I’m finally checking in for the night. OK, maybe later… I’m quite the night owl. Wait… is that 3? Consider it a bonus.”

Galena Guide: Congrats on the re-opening your new store on Main Street. What made you decide to go into the retail business?

Robin: “It seemed like a good idea at the time. I’m kidding.., although I was only 24 at the time so there’s probably a little truth there. The store was actually my mom’s idea. I agreed to work it until I found my “real job”. -Jokes on me.”

Galena Guide: What is the date of your grand re-opening?

Robin: “After the busy season so I can enjoy it too. Thinking first week in December, but I’ll keep you posted. These things can’t be rushed.” The new address is 130 South Main Street. Our selections include: women’s clothing, accessories and our new addition of furniture & home decor are complete with design services if desired.”

Galena Guide: Robin, what are your 3 favorite places in Galena, and why?

Robin: “(1) – My home. I love coming home to our retreat in the woods where I can unwind and enjoy some quiet time with my husband and dog. (Not necessary in that order).  (2) – My store. What a blessing to be able to do what I love and share it with others. I’m humbled every time I walk in the door and I thank God for every customer that graces our space. (3) -Chestnut Mountain. This is where my husband and I courted each other when we worked on the Julia Belle Swain (over 25 years ago) and I love the views, especially at sunset.”

Galena Guide: What is your favorite food to eat in Galena, and where can you try it?

Robin: “Steak dinner. Log Cabin. Hands down. C’mon… it’s incredibly tasty and the Rigopolous family treats everyone like you’re coming home for family dinner. What’s not to like? (Dino, are you reading this? Hook a sister up!”

Galena Guide: If you had to describe Galena, Illinois in one sentence what would it be?

Robin: “Galena may be the town time forgot, but I’m going to continue to work hard to make it a destination people remember! When I travel I’m always telling people how special our town truly is. We have it all: good people, beautiful views and a Hellova Half Mile.”

Galena Guide: Thank-you Robin, and good luck with the upcoming grand opening! We wish you great success.