Distinguished for her creativity and entrepreneurship, Silvia Mella has built a career defined by innovation, authenticity and a deep passion for her craft. She is the founder and creative director of the immensely popular Sōrate, a membership-based green tea and matcha brand that currently operates from multiple locations in New York City. Under her creative leadership, Sōrate has become recognized for introducing a highly distinctive tea concept to New York’s culinary landscape, offering authentic Japanese teas sourced directly from family-owned farms in Japan and creating immersive experiences rooted in centuries-old tea traditions. The company has grown to serve a diverse clientele, with most sales occurring domestically in the United States and a growing international presence.
Ms. Mella’s journey toward launching a new concept in the highly competitive New York City market was shaped by years of experience in creative direction, publishing and branding. After building a successful career overseeing artistic and creative projects for elite fashion and media brands, a transformative trip to Japan introduced her to the tranquility and ritual of Japanese tea culture. Inspired by the experience, she dedicated herself to researching and developing a concept that merged mindfulness, design, hospitality and authentic tea traditions, ultimately culminating in the successful launch of multiple Sōrate locations in New York — widely regarded as one of the most competitive culinary markets in the world.
Beyond commerce, Ms. Mella views Sōrate as a commitment to sharing the rich culture and mindful lifestyle that deeply inspired her with Western audiences. The name Sōrate is derived from slang from the Veneto region of Italy meaning “calm down,” combined with the Japanese word “sora,” meaning “sky.” Through the brand, she emphasizes education around the health benefits, rituals and meditative practices associated with tea preparation, encouraging daily moments of calm and reflection. While she has witnessed the rapid rise of matcha as an alternative to coffee in the global beverage industry, Sōrate distinguishes itself through its authenticity, ceremonial approach and deep respect for Japanese tea culture. Ms. Mella considers the creation and expansion of Sōrate to be her signature professional achievement.
Before Sōrate, Ms. Mella founded Idolize Media & Communications, overseeing the company as creative director for more than five years. Driven by her aspiration to communicate ideas through both words and images, she launched Idolize as a limited-edition publication presented in a unique boxed format with interviews, editorials and photography from renowned figures. During the same period, Ms. Mella contributed as a content creator for Condé Nast Italia, developing a strong relationship with the organization that included an assignment in the United States for the online magazine Style. Her concurrent efforts with Idolize and Condé Nast reflected her expertise in fashion and culture while expanding her influence within the industry.
Ms. Mella’s first role in the publishing world was as an editor for Muse Magazine from 2010 to 2011. Working her way up from an internship, she collaborated with prominent creative figures and forged lasting professional relationships. Earlier in her career, she worked for the press office of Blumarine for two years while attending university, gaining foundational experience in branding and public relations that would later shape her entrepreneurial vision.
While affiliated with Blumarine, Ms. Mella pursued an academic foundation she could rely on throughout her career. In 2011, she earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations, advertising and applied communication from IULM University. Her education provided essential knowledge in branding, finance and business strategy, all of which she has leveraged throughout her professional journey. She credits her success to perseverance, thoughtful decision-making, a structured approach to problem-solving and an unwavering commitment to her vision, even in the face of skepticism and challenges.
Also recognized for her civic engagement, Ms. Mella regularly contributes to cultural and charitable organizations. She serves on the committee of the Save Venice Foundation, reflecting her deep connection to her Venetian heritage. She has also supported initiatives including New Yorkers For Children and God’s Love We Deliver. In addition, she is a founding member of the Soho House committee.
In her personal life, as in her work, Ms. Mella values authenticity above all else, striving to ensure that everything she creates is grounded in genuine passion rather than external expectations. She enjoys spending time in nature and remains committed to promoting mindful living practices through both her business endeavors and daily life.
Looking ahead, Ms. Mella plans to continue expanding Sōrate into new cities internationally. Through the brand, she hopes to leave a lasting legacy centered on peace, balance, culture and meaningful human connection — a vision she pursues through her continued dedication to quality, hospitality and thoughtful design.