Goodbye Sweet Relish, Hello Olive & Lizzy

The short but sweet life of , the gourmet store Mary Vayas opened in Maplewood Village this spring, has come to an end.

That's the bad news. The good news is that Vayas will soon open a clothing and accessories store in the same space (163 Maplewood Avenue) called "Olive & Lizzy." The shop will offer clothes, bags, jewelry, scarves and shoes, as well as some beauty products. It will feature such brands as Free People and Lucky Brand.

"It's for the 'chic fashionista'," said Vayas. "The style will be very girly."

Sweet Relish launched only three months ago, but Vayas said she knew the concept wasn't working the way she had planned.

"Customers wanted prepared foods and coffee, but I don't want to hurt other businesses in town (that offer those)," said Vayas. 

Vayas also owns , as well as  and the  chain with husband, Angelo. "This will be a joint effort with No. 165," said Vayas, who noted that 165 will continue to carry more "mature" women's clothing.

On a recent afternoon, workers were busy repainting the store and getting it ready for its anticipated opening the week after Labor Day.