Faces of Freshfields: 20 Years Later, Meet the Owners Who Helped Shape the Village
As Freshfields Village marks 20 years of bringing shopping, dining and unforgettable experiences, we’re shining a light on two of our original stores that have been here since the very beginning: Islands Mercantile and SeaCoast Sports & Outfitters. These beloved shops have become staples in The Village, welcoming visitors and locals alike with quality products, friendly service and a true sense of community. Get to know Avery Smith and Loren Beadle by reading about their stories and how their businesses came to be!
Islands Mercantile: A Family Tradition
For Avery Smith, co-owner of Islands Mercantile, Freshfields Village has always been home. Her mother and stepfather opened the store in 2005 as an expansion of their first shop on Kiawah Island, seeing The Village as the perfect place to grow their business. Avery, who worked there from the start, officially took over with her husband six years ago, keeping it in the family and continuing the tradition of offering visitors the perfect souvenir to remember their time on the islands.
Islands Mercantile is packed with coastal charm, offering cozy sweatshirts, stylish kids’ apparel, playful toys, and—new this year—a selection of ukuleles. Whether you’re searching for the perfect Kiawah Island keepsake or just enjoying a casual browse, the shop reflects the easygoing spirit of the Lowcountry.
Avery’s favorite spot in The Village? The Village Green. “It’s such a happy, fun place to gather,” she says. “I love seeing people enjoying their time here, whether they’re playing cornhole, listening to live music, or just soaking in the atmosphere.” As Freshfields celebrates 20 years, Islands Mercantile is excited to be part of the festivities, from live concerts right outside their doors to special giveaways inside.
SeaCoast Sports & Outfitters: An Island Essential
For Loren Beadle and his wife, SeaCoast Sports & Outfitters was just the beginning. When they moved to Kiawah 20 years ago to build a home, it coincided with the opening of their first store. Over the years, they expanded their presence in The Village, adding FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen, Kiawah Spirits, Kiawah Wines and The Reserve Room—but SeaCoast remains the heart of it all.
Known as the go-to shop for beach gear, outdoor apparel and top-tier equipment, SeaCoast Sports is all about ensuring visitors are ready for adventure. And with a warm welcome every time—thanks to their signature 5-10-10 rule (greeting guests within five seconds, with 10 seconds of eye contact from no more than 10 feet away)—it’s no wonder customers keep coming back.
When Loren isn’t at one of his five stores, you’ll likely find him at Java Java, his favorite Village spot. “It’s a great place for people to meet, catch up and enjoy some delicious coffee,” he shares. He’s also thrilled for Java Java’s owner, Jaki, on the recent opening of her second storefront, Harvest, in Freshfields Village.
Interested in Harvest or Java Java and want to read more about Jaki’s story of how the two came to be? Click here to check out her journey!
From souvenir shopping at Islands Mercantile to gearing up for adventure at SeaCoast Sports, these original Freshfields Village stores continue to capture the essence of island life. As we celebrate this milestone, we invite you to visit, reminisce and make new memories with the shops that have been part of The Village since day one. Here’s to 20 years—and many more to come!
While you’re out and about in The Village celebrating our 20 year anniversary and capturing photos of your experience, don’t forget to tag us on social media!
Enjoy this blog and want to read more Faces of Freshfields? Click here to read about the jewelry store owners in The Village, here for the women-owned businesses, or here for Jennie Brooks of Longevity.
