Logo for the new business at the four corners of Mendon, Rt. 64 Boutique. Provided by Fred and Melissa Laudise
BY DEB AND TIM SMITH
The first inkling of what was going on in this story occurred a few weeks ago when The Sentinel’s owner Betsy Carosa stopped over for one of our morning conversations with the news that, “I see there are mannequins in the windows of the place on the corner. Maybe it’s going to be some kind of apparel place.” The aforementioned “place on the corner” has been a topic of considerable local conversation over the past year. This would be the building that has previously pleased palates as a Chinese restaurant and more recently caused controversy as a smoke shop.
That location is just three doors down from us, so a few days later when we notice a couple we have not seen before walking their dogs in front of our house, Deb asks, “Are you from the place on the corner?”
After replying in the affirmative, they go on to introduce themselves as Fred and Melissa Laudise. She then tacks on the joking comment, “You can just call me Wilma,” once again confirming the old adage that “Flintstones humor” is never stuck in the Stone Age.
So what are Mendonites going to find on that corner? The name of the new establishment will be the Rt. 64 Boutique and Melissa told us, “I have always had an interest in owning a thrift shop,” and she describes this new establishment as a “thrift boutique.”
What might you find here? They will be offering men’s, women’s and children’s clothing; they will have thrifted items which will be hand-picked and gently used. There will also be some new items, many of which are coming directly from New York City, as well as vintage merchandise and a unique variety of home goods. Melissa assures, “There will be something for everyone!”
So when you’re cleaning out your closets this year, think about the Rt. 64 Boutique. They will purchase or consign your items, as well as always accepting donations. When you might ask? Drop-offs are on Thursdays from 2:00 to 5:00. The Rt. 64 Boutique will be open on Friday through Sunday, from 11:00-5:00, beginning May 8.
We have enjoyed witnessing the building take on new character, accented by Melissa’s yellow-painted doors. There are currently 50 bags of landscaping mulch on the grounds waiting for Fred to beautify the property. Having that piece of property, which is so visible in the hamlet, upgraded to the standards set by the Laudise family is something the whole community can definitely look forward to.
Fred and Melissa are very excited about becoming a part of the Mendon community. On a personal note, they have lived in Victor for 20 years, their girls having gone to VCS, and they love their dogs!
