A lack of ladies’ fashion retail in the Keys, especially Marathon and Key Largo, prompted local owners Candace and David Robison to open RR Island Boutique in June 2022. Their whole goal is serving the community at a reasonable price.
RR Island Boutique, located in the Pink Plaza in Key Largo, where West Marine is located at MM 103.4. Formerly a salon, the RR Island Boutique is located at Pink Plaza at MM 103.4 in Key Largo. Walking into RR, patrons view the variety of flattering and fun chic clothing perfect for the day or an evening out.
Candace said RR stands for relaxed and rejuvenated.
“(There’s) no pressure coming in; we want everyone to feel relaxed and welcome,” Candace said. “We also strive to keep things affordable. You can walk out of here with a whole outfit for $100.”
Candace’s background and current profession are as a national RN-certified wound care specialist, specifically diabetic ulcers and pressure injuries. She’s been doing this work for 30 years, either consulting or working with companies in leadership roles.
“Seeing the outcomes of helping people is important; it’s rewarding,” she said.
Robison’s husband, David, was formerly an Florida Fish & Wildlife officer in the Keys. He has since retired from the FWC but has a side business helping people learn how to drive their boats. Since the beginning, he has played an integral role in setting up and managing the boutique full-time while his wife is still employed.
“I didn’t know what really went into it and had to figure it out. When we were getting ready, we had everything coming in — inventory, racks for the inventory, training for the POS (point of sale) system,” he said.
Since hiring full-time associate Sharon Gibson, David’s role has transitioned to more operations (social media, inventory ordering and online) and Gibson handles more of the store displays, client interaction and sales.
Gibson, who used to work at Wear with All, was a perfect fit for RR Island Boutique.
“I waited on Candace a few times at Wear with Al,” Gibson said.” I noticed there was a new boutique, and I lived close by, and I was like, ‘I don’t like the way the window looks.’ I walked in and introduced myself, knowing my employer was closing. While Wear with All was still open, I worked there and here.”
“Sharon was coming to me, and I was going to find her, so it worked out,” Candace said.
Gibson said enjoys fashion and working with the Robisons.
“I like making people feel good,” she said. “I like when a woman walks out and feels good about herself. When she walked in, she didn’t have confidence. Then she can walk out the door and get a lot of compliments, and she does. I tell our customers, ‘All of us have something wrong; nothing is perfect. So, don’t ever feel bad about yourself.’”
Locals entering the boutique can see new products, with popular brands including Clara Sunwoo, Tyche, Judy Blue, Kancan jeans, Ariella and Lovestitch. RR also carries sunglasses, hats, fashion jewelry and sandals. There’s also a signature scent called “Across the Keys.”
“We developed it based on a scent we like, and we sell candles, oil, and diffusers,” Candace said.
The Robisons travel to the LA Fashion District for unique styles and also consider customer requests. Their average customer age is mid-30s to 70s, and they understand the importance of tourism but, more importantly, cater to the locals.
“We have a lot of local support, so just listening to them and keeping a variety of everything like rompers, dresses and jumpsuits,” Candace said. “And we also offer a locals’ discount.”
“People should be comfortable walking in here and not feel pushed. We aim to build a rapport,” Gibson said. “We want someone to walk in, feel good, feel happy and be a nice experience for people. And the Robisons truly care about the people that walk in the door.” RR Island Boutique is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Follow the boutique on Instagram (@rr_island_boutique) and Facebook (RR Island Boutique). People can also shop online at www.rrislandboutique.com.
