Known for its small-town, family-friendly feel, Medina’s Historic District is a destination for shopping and dining. During any season, you can find visitors strolling the streets, snapping selfies in the Gazebo and exploring the fine shops and restaurants the area has to offer.
Visitors favor small, local businesses and reap the rewards of an idealized experience with access to unique merchandise with unparalleled customer service. That’s exactly what you’ll encounter at The Raspberry and the Rose. Tucked inside a building constructed circa 1879, The Raspberry and The Rose houses 1,600 square feet of curated jewelry finds and modern fashion trends.
Accidental entrepreneur is the title that best suits Melissa Ziogas, owner and creator of this quaint shop. Her eye for inventive displays and hip merchandise offerings with a fun twist make her boutique a stand out among the shops in the district.
After a long stretch as a stay-at-home parent, Melissa was ready to reenter the workforce. But after countless job interviews, she couldn’t find a position that felt right.
“If you can’t find it, then create it” became her mantra. The concept of opening a boutique emerged and melded with her interest in jewelry making, crafting and art.
The Raspberry and The Rose originally opened on Washington Street next to Hershey’s Barber Shop in a storefront with just 732 square feet. At first, she handmade every piece of jewelry she sold. Yes, you read that right. Melissa handmade every piece she sold. With great success under her wing and a huge leap of faith, she moved to her current location and expanded to include a wide array of clothing, accessories and added artisan wares from all over the globe.
Tell us what makes your shop special and unique.
I believe the secret to my longevity is giving the experience I would want as a customer to my visitors. I am constantly trying to improve by listening to my clients’ needs and wishes, bringing in fresh offerings to the shop but still offering old-fashioned service and hospitality. We gift wrap for free, provide shipping and, upon occasion, repair and customize design services if I have the time. No one else offers those services anymore. Those notions are from a long-ago era.
Are you still hand-making and selling your jewelry?
Jewelry making is about patience, a steady hand and creativity. These skills came easy to me but with my family’s demanding schedule, the logistics of operating the shop, managing 14 employees and trying to be a good human, I simply wish I had more hours in every day.
What are the most popular items you sell and why?
Earrings. We always have over 3000 pairs of them in stock. Earrings always fit, they’re always gratifying and no one can ever have too many pairs. I have also partnered with the most remarkable clothing company that designs and manufactures their fashions in the USA and at a price anyone can afford. Celeste offers amazing style, value and designs that are wildly popular. Flattering fit, soft fabrics and all designed by women for women. Every dress they design has pockets and is tailored to fit perfectly.
Where can we find you and what else should we know?
We are located at 241 S. Court St. in the heart of Medina’s Historic District. We’re open late so you can shop and look great on your terms and when your busy schedule allows. Come visit us Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-8 p.m. or visit with us on Sundays from 1-5 p.m. I know it’s hard to shop after work, especially looking for something unique for a special occasion or gift, but we’re here for you.