About Us

The Owner

Hello and welcome to Essentials By Mel! My name is Melva Smith, and I am the CEO of this holistic wellness company. As a former Division I student-athlete, the pillars of mental clarity, physical strength, and intentional wellness have always guided my lifestyle. In December 2021, I earned my Master's Degree in Public Administration, focusing on Nonprofit Administration, with a passion for service and community impact. My mission is to educate and empower others through holistic wellness—starting with the incredible health benefits of sea moss—to promote healing, health, and vitality across our communities.

The Brand

Essentials By Mel was officially founded on May 28, 2021, although my personal journey with sea moss started in October 2020. As an athlete, I wish I had known about sea moss earlier — it would have been a key part of my recovery and overall wellness. Today, I enjoy my sea moss gels daily, either in smoothies or by the spoonful, and I’ve made it my mission to share this natural superfood with others.

Our products include fruit-infused sea moss gels made with wildcrafted sea moss, organic sweeteners, frozen fruit, and natural spring water — along with a refreshing line of sea moss lemonades, teas, and tea-lemonade blends. Each batch is made with care and a strong focus on quality and excellent customer service.

We proudly offer local pickup, delivery, and shipping within the continental U.S., making it easy for customers to enjoy the benefits of our products. You can also find Essentials By Mel at pop-up markets throughout Chicago and the south suburbs. Our mission is to make sea moss more accessible, enjoyable, and educational — while promoting wellness within our communities.