Hidden Gems: Meet Melissa Aquije of Eloisa & Mia Showroom

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Aquije.

Hi Melissa, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My story in fashion started back in my Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising days, where I got my degree in merchandise marketing. I spent about seven years in the women’s contemporary world, working in PR and sales for different brands and multi-line showrooms. It was fast-paced and exciting but once I became a mom, the constant travel just wasn’t it for me anymore.

That shift led me into the kids fashion world, where I joined a multi-line showroom representing contemporary children’s brands across the West Coast. I worked closely with Mia Granda and Eloisa Han two women who really built something special. Eight years later, I had the opportunity to take over the business, and I went for it. Now, I run my own showroom, and I’ve kept the name exactly the same: Eloisa & Mia Showroom. It felt right to honor what they built while continuing to grow it in my own way.

Honestly, I always thought I’d end up on the retail side. But life had other plans, and I found my place in wholesale. It definitely didn’t happen overnight this industry takes time, patience, and learning every part of the business. Everything I’ve picked up along the way from past managers, ex bosses, and even coworkers has shaped how I run things today.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s never been a completely smooth road there are always struggles. I think that’s true in any industry, but the fashion world is definitely a tough one. You meet all kinds of people some who lift you up, and some who don’t. Being Hispanic in this industry, especially earlier in my career about 18 years ago, felt different than it does today. Walking into trade shows and major markets, seeing big names in the industry there were definitely moments of doubt, I won’t lie. But I never let that define me. If anything, it pushed me more, and I’ve always believed that my work would speak for itself.

We’ve been impressed with Eloisa & Mia Showroom, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Eloisa & Mia Showroom is a children’s wholesale showroom that’s been part of the industry since 2000. The name comes from the original founders, and when I took over the business a few years ago, it was important for me to keep that legacy. It represents years of relationships, trust, and a foundation that was built from the ground up. Today, I continue to grow the showroom with my own perspective, while staying true to what made it special in the first place.

We are a multi-line showroom representing over 12 children’s brands across the West Coast, including established names like Mayoral, KicKee Pants, Elegant Baby, and Hatley. Many of the brands I work with are family-owned, and that’s a big part of who we are we support small businesses and grow alongside them, just like the stores we work with.

What really sets us apart is the balance between old-school service and the new way of doing business. I’ve embraced the shift into a more digital, tech-driven industry whether that’s virtual appointments, online ordering, or connecting through social platforms. At the same time, I hold onto that one-on-one, relationship-driven approach. For me, it’s always been about trust, consistency, and making sure every buyer who walks into the showroom feels comfortable and taken care of.

What I’m most proud of is being able to carry something forward that was built with so much heart, and continuing to grow it in a way that feels modern, relevant, and still very personal. My business is not just about selling it’s about relationships, loyalty, and creating a space where both brands and retailers feel supported.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I grew up a happy and outgoing kid. I was always active into sports, dancing, and being around people. I loved making friends and creating those happy moments. Growing up in the 90s, I was also a total Spice Girls fan, always outside playing tetherball, swimming all the time, and I loved my birthday celebrations. Big parties, balloons, cakes… I’ve always loved creating moments like that.

I’ve never been someone to stay quiet. I’ve always had a voice and a strong awareness of what’s around me. A big influence in my life was my dad, who’s been a small business owner for almost 40 years. Watching him growing up, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to build something of my own. I always say I wanted to be the female version of my dad.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.eloisaandmia.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eloisaandmia