1. Tell us a bit about you
My name is Amelia Silva, known as Melita, the way my parents always called me. I am from Portugal, born and raised about thirty minutes North of Lisbon, in a small village known for the beautiful beaches with kilometers of sand and huge waves. I live in Ossining for about 30 years with my husband Pedro Silva and my son and daughter, Pedro and Ines.
Before opening Melita’s Home, my husband and I owned an ethnic food market and a restaurant. It all started on Yale Avenue, Ossining in the oldest Italian deli in the village. We worked seven days a week and raised both of our children between the deli and babysitter. In 1999 we sold the ethnic food market. As enthusiasts of downtown living and historical architecture, we invested in “The Yellow Brick Building”, 125 Main Street, built in 1900. I was drawn to the Mediterranean yellow brick that brings memories of my picturesque hometown.
2. TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS
Home and family have always been the priorities in my life. Having a comfortable and cozy home to
offer well being to my family. I believe that each individual has their likes and styles; “take home what makes you happy”; that is my philosophy!
With that in mind, I opened Melita’s Home, offering antique restored furniture, and imported hand painted pottery from Central and Southern regions of Portugal.
Addicted to the antique auctions we have the need for an upholsterer and refinisher in order to offer all services necessary. Upcycling and reusing are an important part of my lifestyle. Having my master upholsterer Victor Bazan and refinisher Daniel Cunza has been essential to the growth of Melita’s Home.
Over the years, I added a wide variety of products that I thought people would like. From housewares from France and hand blocked table linens, to imported bedding from Portugal.
“Melita’s Home is a lifestyle inspired by nature”!
3. Why did you decide to open your business in Ossining?
Ossining has been my home for more than 30 years and I am in love with this community. Being able to provide for this community has been always my dream, and finally getting the opportunity to do just that has been so warming and rewarding. I enjoy everything I do for my customers. From sharing my special home touch, to providing a place of enjoyment. Nothing brings me more love and joy than seeing their happiness and that’s all I can ask for.
4. For someone not familiar with your business: what product/service do you suggest they try and why?
When I became a grandma, the love for comfortable and cozy baby clothes, inspired me to introduce an Organic line of baby apparel “Milkbarn” and other small family owned collections designed in the USA.
My main passion is spreading LOVE! Being able to help others fills my heart with energy and happiness! I started adding Fair trade products and helping so many families around the world to make a living.
My yearly travels to the NYC Gift show introduced me to Women’s cute, cozy, all-years-wears apparel and accessories, now offered at the shop. Mostly designed and made in the USA, our collections are fresh styles blending luxury, versatility, and comfort.
5. Give us your best Ossining tip or recommendation.
Walk around the village. Take a visit downtown Ossining and enjoy our vibrant village living. From the coffee shops, to restaurants, and great views of our majestic Hudson River, and of course, come in and say Hello!
Photo Gallery: Click on an image and the lightbox will open. then press the arrow to see the next.
How to support Melita’s Home:
1. Shop local! Melita’s home is located at 127 Main Street, Ossining and its open Tuesday through Saturday 11:00am to 6:00pm.
2. Browse and shop online at www.melitashome.com.
Shipping and store Pick up available.
3. Follow Melita’s On Instagram
4. Follow Melita’s on Facebook
5. Share this article with friends, family and Ossining neighborhoods.