For Elisa Robinson, opening Masterful Creations & More By Elisa was never just about fashion. It was about purpose.

The retired Chief Warrant Officer Five spent 34 years serving her country in the United States Army, traveling the world and supporting military operations in Bosnia, Kuwait, Iraq, and during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Today, she continues serving — only now, her mission field looks a little different.

Located at 6604 Bardstown Road in Louisville, Masterful Creations & More By Elisa is a boutique and event planning business rooted in compassion, community outreach and faith. Robinson describes the business as a “business ministry,” one that transforms everyday shopping into opportunities to support veterans and the unhoused.

That commitment to service is deeply personal.

Robinson says the inspiration behind the business began with her brother Anthony, who experienced homelessness for more than 20 years. After learning he had been found unconscious on a bench in Knoxville, Tennessee, fighting for his life, Robinson felt called to act.

“I heard the Lord tell me to step up and not only help Anthony, but others as well,” she said.

That moment sparked the creation of Masterful Creations & More By Elisa, which officially opened its storefront and online boutique in August 2025.

Today, the business offers designer handbags, jewelry, accessories, women’s clothing, men’s accessories, spiritual gifts and veteran-themed items. Robinson also provides full-service event planning and consultation services. But unlike a traditional retail store, her boutique operates with a larger mission in mind.

Twenty percent of proceeds raised throughout the year are reinvested into community outreach initiatives and partnerships with local organizations that support vulnerable populations.

Robinson currently partners with organizations including The Healing Place for Men and Women, Wayside Christian Mission and veterans-focused agencies throughout the Louisville area. Through donations, annual fundraisers and outreach efforts, the business helps provide resources and encouragement to individuals working to rebuild their lives.

“We believe if we see a need, then we meet it — and the Lord will do the rest,” she said.

Faith remains at the center of everything Robinson does. A licensed evangelist in her church, she openly credits God for guiding both her military career and entrepreneurial journey.

Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, Robinson began her military career as a private in the Transportation Corps before ultimately achieving the highest warrant officer rank in the Adjutant General Corps. Along the way, she built a life centered around family and service.

Robinson and her husband, Jewell C. Robinson, recently celebrated 25 years of marriage. The couple met while serving in Bosnia Herzegovina and both earned master’s degrees in Human Resources Management. Her husband, a retired veteran, now serves as a Department of the Army civilian executive officer at Fort Knox in the chemical branch.

While entrepreneurship presented a different challenge than military service, Robinson says networking and building relationships within the community have been key to growing the business. She hopes to continue expanding partnerships with local organizations to make an even greater impact.

What also sets the boutique apart is its focus on unique, custom-made products shoppers cannot find elsewhere locally. Robinson describes the store as a “one-stop shop” where fashion and purpose come together.

One detail customers especially appreciate? Veterans never pay sales tax at the boutique.

For Robinson, the term “VetrepreneuHER” perfectly captures this next chapter of life. The phrase represents her transition from military veteran to entrepreneur while continuing to lead and serve others.

And while many business owners focus solely on profits, Robinson measures success differently.

“If I had to do my life over again, I wouldn’t change anything,” she said. “I’m proud of what the Lord has allowed me to do for those that need a hand up, not a handout.”

Through faith, fashion and service, Robinson hopes her story reminds people of one simple truth:

“We are better together.”

Army Strong - Defend and Serve!!!!