10/24/2025
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In late 1996, I left my job with Pulsar Plastics to take a huge risk – I was going to open a video store on Main Street in Breese. At the time, Breese already had 2 other video stores, but I knew that I needed to make a career change for my health and for my family. So, Outback Videos was born. The name was a nod to the entrance of the store…out back. Over the years, I made countless friends and employed many members of the community. In fact, I employed several of my daughters’ friends.
As videos began to slowly expire, I expanded my business to include a tanning salon. And as tanning began to fade away (pun intended), I began to expand into the wedding business. Over the years, I have been included on first weddings, second weddings, baby showers, homecoming/prom, and all sorts of celebrations. Aside from my family, nothing has brought me greater happiness than to watch this business grow, but as the saying goes, all good things much come to an end. Or at least be passed on to the next generation. Before I toss the bouquet, I have some messages to share.
I would like to thank my husband, Bob, for supporting me from the initiation of the business and through each transition. Bob helped me successfully run my business while continuing to serve our community with the Breese police department. We are looking forward to retired life together.
I would like to thank my daughters for being employees of each business – videos, tanning, and wedding planning. Nikki enjoyed the video store the most, while Heather enjoyed the tanning salon. Neither enjoyed wedding planning/decorating.
I would like to honor my long-time friend, Mike Gebke. He is missed every single day. He had an amazing heart. We worked together for 18 years and each one of those days was great because of him.
I would also like to honor my Aunt Mary who worked with me for 11 years. She was the sweetest lady you would ever meet. She was always teaching me new ways to make the job easier and more beautiful. She is missed beyond measure.
This business has not been the same without either of them.
To each employee that has worked with me over the years, thank you. It has been an honor to watch you each grow from young teenagers into amazing adults.
Effective December 1, 2025, Events & Essentials (Kellye & Brian Holtgrave) will be the new owners of all of my inventory and will be assuming the responsibilities for any future weddings currently on my books. I can assure you that it is the largest inventory in Clinton County! If you are newly engaged, I encourage you to contact Events & Essentials for your big day. Kellye & Brian are wonderful people and will do a great job. I will continue to own and operate The Venue on Main Street, and you may contact me directly for any inquiries related to event space, including décor for the space. I am always happy to talk, so please call me with any questions at all: 618-560-9104.
After the official transition of the inventory and books to Kellye & Brian, I will be hosting a retirement party and am extending an invitation to anyone who would like to stop by and celebrate. More details to come. This has been a bittersweet decision, but I know the time is right to close this chapter and move into the next chapter – retirement!
Love Robin
