A local business on Cobram’s High St celebrated 20 years on Sunday, October 20.
Home-grown sisters Melissa Crisafulli and Paula Latina first opened the doors of D’Vine Ideas in October 2004.
As a young girl, Melissa’s dream in life was to one day own her own store.
She became a qualified florist after leaving high school, and later sat down with her sister, Paula, to brainstorm how they might convert that dream into reality.
The rest, as they say, is history.
In its early days, D’Vine Ideas specialised in flowers and gifts. After three years, the sisters steered D’Vine Ideas to home wares and gifts.
After 15 years of running the show together, Melissa’s sister stepped away to dedicate more time to her family.
Melissa took on complete ownership of the store.
For the past five years, she has owned and operated the business alongside a small team of dedicated staff.
“The last five years have been rewarding,” Melissa said.
But, she added, those years also came with their own unique challenges — particularly during COVID-19.
Through the highs and lows, locals stepped up to show their support.
“At the end of the day, if it wasn’t for the local support, I don’t know where we would be,” Melissa said.
For those who wonder what it might be like to own their own small business, Melissa has one piece of sage advice.
“Pursue your dreams,” she said.
Melissa has no regrets after doing just that.
“It’s nice to look back and be glad we did it,” she said.
“Still doing this 20 years later, I love what I do. I think it’s something to be proud of.”
D’Vine Ideas offers a range of gifts and home wares for any occasion, and is at 62 High St, Cobram, open weekdays and weekends.
Melissa will be formally celebrating the business’ double decade with drinks and nibbles on Wednesday, October 30, from 5pm to 8pm.
For more information about the event, check out D’Vine Ideas’ Facebook page at facebook.com/dvineideas