Spotlight on Silk Road, Cookies N' Cream and Fine Arts Gallery
By Madeline Oden, BXV for BXV Stronger Together
Oct. 28, 2020: Every week since early September, MHTB has been featuring articles about local businesses. These articles are written by Madeline Oden, Jane Staunton and Kerry Walsh of BXV for BXV Stronger Together. Below is our current feature. Links to previous Spotlight features is at the end of this article. Enjoy!
Silk Road, 101 Pondfield Road, Bronxville
In 2007 just before the financial crisis hit, Susan Piper and a partner opened East India Designs, as Silk Road was first known. The genesis of the business was a Concordia College trip to India, where Sue was inspired by the beautiful colors, fabrics, and decorative items.
As she reveled in the experience, her wheels started to turn. With no retail experience, Sue took the plunge and opened the shop. Readers may remember Cliffhangers, a shop owned by Joy Kilbourne. Sue is grateful to Joy, who became a friend and great mentor.
A Vassar College graduate, Sue’s open and friendly demeanor served her well in her successful 30-year career in human resources at IBM. She and husband Gene raised daughter Anne in Bronxville and continue to live in the village.
With travel plans on hold, Sue still thinks internationally. Her daughter, who works for Epic Medical Systems, lives in Finland with her husband, who has developed an online program for teaching science to 3 to 8 year olds.
The products available at Silk Road have evolved based on customers’ interest in traditional decorative pieces to make “at home time cozy and memorable.” Sue occasionally brings in product lines requested by loyal customers.
Clearly, her formula works as Silk Road received a 2020 Best of Westchester Award for shops and boutiques. There are napkins and placemats, cookware and serving pieces, crystal, hostess gifts, jewelry, and more. Check it out at www.silkroadny.com.
Silk Road opens at 11 am Tuesday-Saturday, and the team is available by text, phone, or email. Private appointments can be scheduled. During the holiday season, gifts are wrapped and on your doorstep within 24 hours. If you pop into the store, wear a mask, and bring your dog. A true dog lover, Sue always has treats and water on hand.
Cookies N' Cream, 10 Park Place, Bronxville
Joseph Edwards, a true entrepreneur, was set to open Cookies N' Cream in March 2020, planning to add it to his other local businesses, Graceland Florist in Mount Vernon and SwirlNJoy in Tuckahoe, a frozen yogurt and edibles shop. His timing was not ideal. When the shutdown eased, Joe opened on June 9.
Living in Eastchester with his partner of 27 years, Chris Parra, and 9-year-old twins Nico and Natalia, Joe says Bronxville "is like my backyard. I do most of my shopping here." He thought BXV was missing a "little dessert and ice cream shop."
Seeking the best ice cream, Joe settled on Longford's, "a local small-batch ice cream known for its homestyle texture and natural taste. You're going to taste the vanilla bean, the cocoa bean."
Cookies N' Cream makes 12-15 types of over-sized cookies in the store. And check out the cereal bar. Joe is eager for the time when he can offer cooking classes and host "bake your own cookies" birthday parties, but for now, he "would rather be very cautious."
On the home front, two puppies have arrived, a Havanese for Natalia and a beagle for Nico. "When you have twin children, you have to get two of everything." Arriving just after the school shutdown, the puppies have proven "a great distraction from IPads." You can see the twins sitting on a park bench in the mural Joe had created for the shop. Joe tries to be "as present as possible with my children," but he squeezes in tennis and working with his trainer when he can.
Joe knew BXV was a special village, but he "never realized how supportive the community was." Cookies N' Cream opens later in the morning, so a "neighboring store will accept deliveries for me" and about customers, "I can only say positive things."
Fine Arts Gallery, 99 Pondfield Road, Bronxville
Florence Restivo Kooluris opened the Fine Arts Gallery 31 years ago in keeping with her philosophy that "the world would be such a dark place without music and art." Surrounded by "fine art, furniture, rugs and music" in her childhood home, Florence developed her artistic sensibility early in life.
After studying art and then working for Grey Advertising and Saks Fifth Avenue, Florence was hired as a Senior Graphic Designer at Bristol Myers Squibb, where she met husband George. The arrival of three sons prompted their move from Manhattan to Bronxville.
When the boys were somewhat independent, Florence opened the gallery as a resource for framing and a space to show the work of the local artists she takes great pleasure in nurturing.
Check out the pop art sensibility of Terence Finch or Patt Baldino's exquisite still life paintings. On the framing side of the business, Florence believes an artwork shines when framed with the perfect mat and frame, and she "measures twice and cuts once." It's like "putting the right shoes with the right dress."
In her free time, Florence cooks, a passion stemming from her "100% Sicilian" heritage. She's been told that her 123" long stove has "more cooking power that Bobby Flay's." For his birthday, grandson Douglas recently requested ravioli with vodka sauce, chocolate cake, and cookies to take home.
Florence celebrates the many committed small business owners in "this wonderful village" and hopes shoppers appreciate the complexity of running "a mom and pop store."
A brass plaque of Florence's beloved pug "Jake" is next to the front door. Rub "Jake" and make a wish. It will bring a ray of light into your day. It's Florence's way of taking a sweet memory and turning it into hope for the future.
Other Spotlight Features
If you'd like to read about other businesses in town, click on these links for other Spotlight Features.
Spotlight on Found Herbal, Mossy Fern, and Provisions for Pets
Spotlight on Booskerdoo, Bronxville Jewelers 90 and Station Plaza Wine
Spotlight on Bronxville Fitness Club, Fabio's Hair Studio & Wild Vine & Liquors
Spotlight on Adrian East, Bronxville Furriers and Beer Noggin
Spotlight on Chantilly Patisserie and Bakeshop, Enrico Gargano Hair & Hickey's Del
Spotlight on Ladle of Love, Mrs. Morgan's Flower Shop & Gillard's
Spotlight on Slave to the Grind, Maison Rouge & Continental 109 Salon
Spotlight on Brother's Fresh Fruit and Vegetables, Mini's Prime Meats & Park Place Bagels
Spotlight on Bayside Travel, Trapp Opticians and Whim
Photo at top: A.Warner; Other photos provided by M. Oden
Editor's note: As a public service, MyhometownBronxville publishes articles from local institutions, officeholders, and individuals. MyhometownBronxville does not fact-check statements therein, and any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the thinking of its staff.
Shops Directory
Silver Spoon
Silver Spoon is a unique gift shop specializing in beautiful clothing and gifts for babies and young children, including adorable dresses and outfits for girls and boys, sweaters, bedding, baby gifts and accessories. They also carry gifts for adults including throws, cosmetic bags and other special items. Silver Spoon specializes in monogramming to create truly personalized items and gifts. They also offer a baby gift registry and complimentary gift wrap.
81 Pondfield Road
Bronxville, New York 10708
914-771-7645
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Toney Toni & The Gang
Born and raised in Westchester County, Kim Linn opened her boutique in Bronxville in 1995. Toney Toni & the Gang offers a curated selection of women's clothing, shoes & accessories. Ulla Johnson, Birds of Paradis, A Piece Apart, Clare V, Repeat Cashmere, Pons Quintana, White & Warren, Lilla P, Melissa Nepton are just a few of the designers found in the store.
Bronxville Wellness Sanctuary
Bronxville Wellness Sanctuary builds on an ancient tradition of mind, body, and spirit focus that is essential to total health, life balance, and true peace. Our clients experience an increase in well-being by participating in individualized holistic services including massage, facials, energy healing services, meditation, yoga therapy, and workshops
Schedule your appointment online
Purchase a gift certificate online
14 Studio Arcade
Bronxville, NY 10708
914-337-9356
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Posh Beauty Boutique
POSH Beauty Boutique is a luxury spa offering the ultimate in body therapies and skincare. The founder of POSH Beauty Boutique is Bronxville resident Diana Rainsford who is a master Reflexologist and Esthetician.
POSH offers customized facials, massage, waxing, spray tans, professional makeup applications and much more including customized, all-inclusive packages for your bachelorette party, special birthday, or for fun with your friends. Little Miss packages are also available for your little princess’s special occasions.
POSH uses Eminence Organic Skin Care for all their facials. Body treatments are performed in their luxuriously appointed Hydrotherapy room with Vichy shower.
118 Pondfield Road
Bronxville, NY 10708
914-361-1277
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Rain Natural Skin Care
Rain Natural Skincare is the home for a wide range of handmade luxurious body and skincare products that are made from natural ingredients, harnessing the power of nature to rejuvenate and nourish your skin.
Value Drugs of Bronxville
Value Drugs of Bronxville has been a member of the Bronxville Community for over twenty years. They are a family center where you can find a large variety of items. They have over fifty departments including toys, clothing, home goods and everything else you need from your neighborhood drug store. They have a full-service pharmacy with free delivery. You can also find a large variety of seasonal goods for every time of year.
80 Pondfield Rd
Bronxville, NY 10708-3801
(914) 337-2520
Bronxville Vision Care
Bronxville Vision Care offers eye examinations and same-day service on most eyeglasses and contact lens services. The center is open every day and accepts most vision plans, including VSP, Eye Med, Spectera, and Pomco. John Dello Russo is the optician and Dr. Josephine Russo is the optometrist. Dr. Russo, a graduate of SUNY Optometry, has been in practice since 1996. Mr. Dello Russo, who has an MBA in finance and is an adjunct instructor at CUNY, has been an optician since 1976 and is designated a Master of Ophthalmic Optics by the American Board of Opticianry.
10 Park Place
Bronxville, NY
914-337-4440
Trapp Opticians
Founded in 1945, Trapp Opticians has been proud to serve Bronxville and Lower Westchester with the highest level of care and expertise in eye care. Our Optometrist offers comprehensive eye examinations and contact lens fittings. Trapp offers the best quality in eyewear and sun wear including a large selection of children’s eyewear and sportswear.
M-F 8:30-5:00PM
Sat 9:30-3:00PM
42 Pondfield Rd.
Bronxville, NY 10708
(914) 337-0707
Tryforos & Pernice Florist
The Tryforos family has roots in the floral industry since the late 1800's and is privileged to be serving Bronxville since 1963. Their distinctive arrangements and bouquets consist of top of the market flowers from Holland, New Zealand, South America, the Pacific Basin and the US. For the floral enthusiast, all of their arrangements are customized from classic to trendy themes with inventive designs. Lush, dense packed vase arrangements in clear, low square, round glass, terra cotta and leaf lined vases are always available. They have beautiful orchids; potted and cut, as well as green and flowering plants which vary by season. They are pleased to present your unique inspirations for gift giving. Their customer base: "Busy People". They deliver and send flowers worldwide.
M-F: 9am-6pm
Sat.: 9am-5pm
73 Pondfield Road
Bronxville, NY 10708
914.337.2525
www.tryforosflorist.com
Framebridge
All of us have things sitting in boxes, drawers, and on our phones that we’d rather have up on our walls. At Framebridge, we’re making custom framing so easy and delightful that you’re inspired to celebrate everything you love–big, little and in-between. Whether digital photo or physical item, single frame or gallery wall, Framebridge has you covered. With our transparent pricing, there are no surprises. The price you see is the price you’ll pay–and shipping is always free. With over two dozen frame styles and mat options, you're sure to find the perfect combo to bring your piece to life. You can even personalize it with a brass plate, mat caption, or story pocket! Whether it’s macaroni art or a Picasso sketch, we treat every piece like a masterpiece.
Bronxville Furriers
Established in 1926, Bronxville Furrier has a long history as a trusted full service fur retailer. Luxurious furs, reversible garments, shearlings, Loro Piana cashmeres and accessories can be found here.
We offer a range of services that include Certified cold storage, cleaning and glazing, alterations and repairs. Our remodel program gives our customers the opportunity to Redesign and Modernize garments that no longer work with their lifestyles or fit properly.
Silver Spoon
Silver Spoon is a unique gift shop specializing in beautiful clothing and gifts for babies and young children, including adorable dresses and outfits for girls and boys, sweaters, bedding, baby gifts and accessories. They also carry gifts for adults including throws, cosmetic bags and other special items. Silver Spoon specializes in monogramming to create truly personalized items and gifts. They also offer a baby gift registry and complimentary gift wrap.
81 Pondfield Road
Bronxville, New York 10708
914-771-7645
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The Silk Road
We are a unique boutique specializing in Home Decor, Gifts, Annabelle's and Seely Mini Jewelry, Bedding, and Clothing. We carry noteworthy items from Simon Pearce, Julie Vos, Dash and Albert, Fermob, Calaisio and many others. Gift wrapping is available.
Continental 109
Continental 109 has a 60-year history of providing exceptional hair styling, color and essential services for beauty and well being. The salon is led by owner and stylists, Nick and Mark DeVincenzo.
Built on the tradition of superior customer service, their full service salon stays fresh and exciting through ongoing training and immersion in the best that the world of beauty and fashion has to offer.
Everything about us is leading-edge with a complete focus on our guests. This commitment, and our talented staff, are the reasons why you will come to enjoy the Continental 109 experience.
Centrally located in the elegant village of Bronxville, the salon is easy to reach by car or train. Discover us, and reveal a more beautiful, more vibrant you!
109 Pondfield Road
Bronxville, NY 10708
914.793.4198
914.793.4198
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Bacione Pasta Shop
Bacione Pasta Shop offers fresh pasta and sauces using high quality ingredients to create delicious pasta dishes loaded with flavor. Come in and enjoy the cuisine of Italy right here in Bronxville.
You can order from eleven kinds of fresh pasta by the pound and then choose from eight homemade sauces to complete your meal. Add-ons include: chicken, sausage, meatballs, mozzarella, ricotta and broccoli.
Bacione also sells loaves of Italian and focaccia bread and freshly prepared containers of homemade lasagna, vegetarian lasagna, sausage ragu and meat dishes to take home. Dessert offerings are: tiramisu, flan and panna cotta. Drink choices are Italian sodas.
Ladle of Love
Ladle of Love, 18 Palmer Avenue - just across the street from New York Presbyterian Westchester Hospital - stands for consciously - sourced food, community support and a caring work family.
Whether you're picking up from the shop, getting delivery by ordering at ladleoflove.com or crafting a catering with founder/owner, Leslie Lampert, Ladle of Love promises healthful, delicious food from award winning soups and stews to sandwiches, salads, sweets and supper selections. (We have daily curbside pickup at The Boys and Girls Club in Mt. Kisco.)
The UPS Store
The UPS Store is a great place to send a package, print documents, open a mailbox or purchase business supplies. You are assured great service and a personal touch.
81 Pondfield Rd
Bronxville, NY 10708-3817
914- 779-0140
http://www.theupsstorelocal.com/1363/
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