Behind the Business: Robin’s Nest in the Pass

PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. (WLOX) - In downtown Pass Christian on Davis Avenue, you’ll find Robin’s Nest in the Pass, a business deeply rooted in family, faith, and inspiration.

“My mom would always say we all have a gift, discover yours and share it with the world,” said owner Dorothy Roberts.

Dorothy opened the gallery gift shop in September of 2015.

“About 10 years ago, I decided to open this store, the little gift shop, and named it Robin’s Nest in the Pass after my sister Robin, who loves Pass Christian,” said Dorothy.

Many know Dorothy’s sister Robin Roberts from Good Morning America and ESPN, but she also worked at WLOX in the 80s.

“Family is very important in terms of their support; they pick you up when you might be feeling a little low,” said Dorothy.

The business named after Dorothy’s family celebrates the creative spirit and love for the city.

“It came about because I had made jewelry for about 10 years and was selling it at festivals, and I said wouldn’t it be cool to have my own little place where I can also support other consigned artists and jewelry makers,” said Dorothy.

Dorothy Roberts also makes it her business to showcase the Mississippi Gulf Coast in multiple ways.

“We only purchase pillows that have phrases on them because you can get a pillow with a fleur-de-lis on it anywhere, but if you get a fleur-de-lis that says ‘Pass Christian’ or ‘I love Louisiana’, those seem to do better for us,” said Dorothy.

Dorothy says choosing dependable staff is just as important as inventory, eventually crossing paths with Jenny, who serves as store manager.

“We try to keep everything together, like all of our greeting cards, our handmade candles, all of our hats,” said Jenny. “I try to make it easy for the staff because they are running back and forth as soon as the customers leave to restock, so we try to make it make sense for them.”

While Jenny keeps everything in order at the nest, Dorothy is often busy next door at Roberts Place Café.

“What keeps you successful there, especially in the first one to three years, is working capital,” said Dorothy. “Restaurants are the number one failed small business in the United States. Things break, and the items are expensive, like refrigerators and freezers. I’ve already gone through two ice machines.”

And throughout the café, Dorothy honors her father and mother.

“When people come in here, I tell them they’re in Momma’s room,” said Dorothy. “People also love this plaque, ‘the outstanding wife and mother award,’ that is what dad gave mom when he retired, and these are just things that she did in her life to inspire, uplift, and motivate people.”

Dorothy also works with regional artists whose work is on display for purchase throughout Robin’s Nest.

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