When you are able to spend time on our beautiful island, even if it’s just for the weekend, you are one of the lucky ones. Seven Mile Beach is home to the most beautiful beaches and parks, delicious restaurants, and many unique stores where you will find anything and everything you need for your beach house, your closet, the perfect gift, and so much more!

Trendz

209 96th St., Stone Harbor

Trendz Home

215 96th St., Stone Harbor

Olive Tree

211 96th St., Stone Harbor

What is the inspiration behind the stores?
“Love/Appreciation of the arts – pieces individually made by hand with a focus on the elements of good design!” says Amy Hardy. “It’s intriguing to observe how an artist creates – from the inception of an idea, their eye for choice of raw material together with their hard work, tenacity, heart and soul to the finished product … no matter the material – gold, an oil painting, hand-blown glass, or luxe bed linens. Growing up in house of an artist gave Lisa and I the foundation to love being surrounded by beautiful and different things ... AND to bring the things we live with to you!”

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“It was a process. We started with the Olive Tree, established in the ‘60s. In opening our second store in 1991, we wanted to select a name that resonated with being “relevant “ on opening day and take us on a journey into the future. Thus, trendz was born. The third store in 1998 was easy ... trendz HOME. Home décor with a focus on bed and bath … love where you live!

What colors and inspirations did you consider when buying items for this summer?
“Nature and the ocean continue to inspire us every day, as well as clients’ needs/wants, travel and architecture. Waking up and seeing/appreciating something new every day … or something we treasure in a new light.”

Why did you choose to be in this location?
“Love the simple life of living at the beach. Walking to work in this idyllic small town on an island filled with interesting people from many walks of life. As far as store location, like our specific location – the top of the block with the intrigue of being set off 96th Street down the garden path – it’s charming.”

What is your favorite item in the store right now and why?
“Every piece in our store is a favorite, otherwise it would not be here! Favorite … depends on the moment and perspective. As to a specific favorite – at this moment, an incredible pair of paraiba tourmaline earrings, a light linen Greek dress, a crisp long staple luxe Egyptian cotton sheet set to help get a good night’s sleep, and a Hoptomist – all things that bring joy at any given moment!

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“Each interaction with clients many who become lifelong friends. Today began with a client who drove several hours to add a memorable charm to her necklace and ended with a couple selecting an engagement ring – they had been looking for some time and she knew as soon as she laid eyes on it that it was the one!”

Stephanie’s of Stone Harbor

9720 Third Ave., Stone Harbor

What is the inspiration behind the store?
The store was inspired by a fortunate opportunity when Stephen DiMuzio, an interior designer, acquired a large collection of antiques from a family friend, Lillian Meyers. He opened a shop to sell the collection and named it after his young daughter, Stephanie.

What kind of brands do you carry?
Stephanie’s carries a unique mix of fine art, handcrafted jewelry, accessories, home décor, and gifts. They also sell Stephanie’s own greeting card line, “Fine Art Expressions.”

Why did you choose to be in this location?
They originally opened in Cape May in 1984, but later moved to Stone Harbor, where the store continues to thrive. The location offers a vibrant, community-oriented environment with a strong customer base.

How has the store evolved since it first opened?
Originally focused on antiques and collectibles, the store has transitioned over the years to include more contemporary jewelry, accessories, and fine art.

What kind of experience do you aim for your customers to have when shopping here?
The goal is to create a warm, inviting environment where customers feel like part of the family. Angela DiMuzio emphasizes that their customers are “phenomenal people” who have left a lasting imprint on their hearts.

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
One standout memory was opening day in 1984 when young Stephen and Stephanie handed out carnations to customers. Another unforgettable moment came after Hurricane Sandy when the community showed overwhelming support after the store suffered flood damage.

Armadillo, Ltd.

2761 Dune Drive, Avalon

What is the inspiration behind the store?
“John and I moved to our second home after living, working, and shopping in Manhattan for 20-plus years,” says owner Jacquie Ewing, “and we wanted to have a store that more reminded us of where we shopped – the West Village SoHo, The Village, etc. As former Wall Street traders, we had never been involved in retail except as “seasoned” shoppers. What were we thinking?!”

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“I have a Texan friend who after a dirty martini decided to call me Armadillo as I always said working in the-then only man’s business of hedge fund trading made me feel like I wore a suit of armor like an armadillo. We had named our trading company that, but I appropriated the name for its mystery.”

What kind of brands do you carry?
“Anything that catches my fancy as long as the vendor is pleasant. We have a motto, ‘Life is too short to deal with stinkers.’ We love serving pieces, and anything tabletop. Right now, ‘unbreakable’ polycarbonate outdoor glassware and resin are the top sellers. Dishwasher safe, always a winner.”

What colors and inspirations did you consider when buying items for this summer?
“Since the shop is open every day year-round except for five days, we don’t focus on summer as a separate timeline. Certainly, outdoor poolside or on the deck play a part, but not to excess. Color is so personal – we get that blue and white is beach material, but it’s nice to play outside the sandbox and have some fun and mix in other colors.”

How has the store evolved since you first opened it?
“We still buy what we like. And the biggest change results from the demographic we service. We offer corporate and personal shopping that really exploded during COVID. Certainly, Facebook & Instagram have made remote ordering easier for our customer base who still want to support brick & mortar shops over online-only. It’s terrific to have shoppers who really care about supporting small businesses.”

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“We opened Summer of 2002. We’re now selling to adults who were kids when we opened. Several have listed their bridal registry with us – now that is very cool! And so are they!”

*Hannah and Libby Bostard of The Local Beanz Boutique and Cafe*

Local Boutique & Beanz Café

9505 Third Ave., Stone Harbor | thelocalsh.com

What is the inspiration behind the store?
“Our travels inspired the concept – everywhere we went, we noticed how seamlessly fashion and coffee came together,” according to Hannah and Libby Bostard. “We knew we wanted to bring that same blend of style and atmosphere to our hometown.”

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“We’re locals who always knew we’d open a spot in the town we love. The Local is our way of sharing that love – your go-to neighborhood gem for coffee, clothes, and unique gifts, and Beanz is a nod to our littlest inspirations, our nieces, our original little beans.”

What kind of brands do you carry?
“We carry a curated mix of clothing, gifts, and pantry favorites – featuring brands like Doen, Cleobella, Rutopia, Habitual Denim, Deiji Studios, Zulu & Zephyr, and other standout Australian labels. You’ll also find a selection of elevated essentials, like Hermans Coffee, Ayoh Mayo, and Vandy Potato Chips.”

What colors and inspirations did you consider when buying items for this summer?
“For summer, we leaned into really pretty blues and soft pastel yellows – colors that feel fresh, coastal, and easy to wear. We were also inspired by tropical textures and brought in pieces with a relaxed, rattan-inspired vibe to reflect that laid-back beach energy.”

Why did you choose to be in this location?
“We chose Stone Harbor because it felt like the perfect complement – our family already has shops in Avalon and Sea Isle, so it made sense to plant new roots right in the middle.”

What kind of experience do you aim for your customers to have when shopping here?
“We want our customers to walk in and instantly feel a sense of warmth – like they’ve stepped into a little getaway. Think relaxed, inviting, and a touch of wanderlust in every corner.”

Gingy’s

9718 Third Ave., Stone Harbor | gingys.com

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“Gingy is the nickname of the store’s founder Jean Tremblay,” says Betsy Tremblay. “Jean’s aunt is also named Jean and to distinguish between the two, Jean was called Jean G which sounds like Gingy.”

What kind of brands do you carry?
“We carry mostly beachy, summery brands in Stone Harbor, including our own Gingy label designed by Jean and Betsy for the stores. We offer clothing from casual beach to days to weddings and cocktail parties as well as swimwear and athletic wear. We also have a selection of home goods and jewelry that are great for birthday presents and hostess gifts.”

What colors and inspirations did you consider when buying items for this summer?
“Summer weather inspires color. Many of our clothes are colorful prints perfect for your summer events from beach weddings to no-shower happy hours.”

Why did you choose to be in this location?
“The first Gingy store was in Malvern, Pa. Our customers there are also in Avalon and Stone Harbor in the summer. They asked that we open a store in their summer town, and after four years in Malvern we did. [We no longer have a store in Malvern, but you can find us in Wayne]”

How has the store evolved since you first opened it?
“Our original thought of offering clothing that makes you feel good and is easy to live in is the same. We do try new brands each year and continue with our customer favorite brands. When Jean’s daughter, Betsy, joined her in the business, they also started designing and manufacturing their own brands. Because of this, we can offer you things that you won’t find anywhere else.”

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“There are many memorial moments. My favorites are when the customers are so excited with their purchases. Sidewalk sale is always a fun day every year.”

She Be Surfin’

221 96th St., Stone Harbor | 2516 Dune Drive, Avalon | shebesurfin.com

What is the inspiration behind the store?
“I loved going into all the local surf shops as a teenager,” says Colette Brogan. “However, the shops were mostly geared toward men with a very small women’s section. I thought, ‘Wouldn’t be great if there was a surf shop for women?’”

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“I wanted a store name that people would know by the name what type of store they were shopping in. My husband actually came up with the name. He had heard something similar from another industry.”

Why did you choose to be in this location?
“I had worked in retail in Cape May and Stone Harbor for many years. I thought Stone Harbor was the perfect spot for She Be Surfin’, but could not find a retail space. My sister lived in Avalon at the time and thought I should take a look there. At the time there were only a few clothing stores, so I thought that it would be a great fit for my store.”

What is your favorite item in the store right now and why?
“My favorite item in the store right now is the Pareos from Tag Aloha of Hawaii. They can be worn as a cover-up, but also as a top!”

What kind of experience do you aim for your customers to have when shopping here?
“I strive to create a welcoming environment for girls of all ages. Our goal is for our customers to have enjoy shopping with us and to be available to help them find the perfect outfit.”

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“The most memorable moments for me are when I have a customer that comes in who has been shopping with us since we opened 20 years ago. I am so appreciative of my longtime customers, it is what makes me love what I do!”

Nesting

9501 Third Ave., Stone Harbor | nestingstoneharbor.com

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“I was pregnant with my first child,” says Maggie Day, “and I was ‘Nesting’ and it just seemed natural that Moms would just get that and understand what the store was all about through the name. IYKYK kind of thing.”

What colors and inspirations did you consider when buying items for this summer?
“The trends are out of my control, but I do tend to LOVE colors!! My children are all different and have different favorite colors and through experiencing them growing up and talking to their friends I have realized the faves are endless. So, I just make sure I have a good variety to try and cover everyone’s likes.”

Why did you choose to be in this location?
“I was born and raised in Stone Harbor and still currently live here. I cherish my community and wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

How has the store evolved since you first opened it?
“I am in Year 3 of my newer larger space. Changing location and gaining the space I gained was a huge step for me. It allowed me to expand my collections, my sizes, and my offerings in all categories. I love having what people are looking for, and with more space I can.”

What kind of experience do you aim for your customers to have when shopping here?
“I aim to have a very personalized experience with my customers. I like to know what they think and get to know them. So many of my customers have been shopping with me for the life of my store. It is so nice to see the familiar faces each year and watch the kids grow to the next size up!”

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“When I first purchased the new building and completely gutted the insides I stood in the middle of it and tried to visualize the most amazing baby and children’s boutique I could think of creating. I then proceeded to make that happen. That is a lifetime standout moment. I will remember that forever.”

Louella

2819 Dune Drive, Avalon | 227 E. Lancaster Ave., Wayne, Pa. | louellastyle.com

What is the inspiration behind the store?
“Classic to contemporary for the modern woman,” says Maria Delany.

What kinds of brands do you carry?
“Lilly Pulitzer, Elan, Cabana Life, Z SUPPLY, Wooden Ships, and more!”

What colors and inspiration did you consider when buying items for this summer?
“White and blue are always great for summer; neutrals are trending this season.”

What is your favorite item in store right now and why?
“Our delicious, healthy grab-and-go foods from ANEU Kitchens are bringing in lots of excitement!”

What kind of experience do you aim for your customers to have when shopping here?
“We love to offer a glass of wine and connect with our shoppers like girlfriends!”

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“We love when our college-aged employee comes back to say hi and check in!”

Wave One

225 96th St., Stone Harbor | waveonestoneharbor.com

What is the inspiration behind the store?
“Pete [Oppenheimer] loved to sell,” Colette Brogan says of her co-owner. “He started selling T-shirts in college. He used to spend summers in Cape May working as a lifeguard for Cape May Beach Patrol. He started to make all the apparel for Lifeguard Nationals held every summer in Cape May. He loved it so much that he opened his first store in Cape May.” Colette and her sister managed his store.

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“Pete was rowing in a lifeguard competition with his rowing partner, Kevin Murphy. They were in last place when they caught a huge wave and won! That is how he came up with the name Wave One.”

Why did you choose to be in this location?
“We started in Cape May and decided to open in another beach town. We always loved Stone Harbor, so when a spot became available, we decided to open in Stone Harbor.”

How has the store evolved since you first opened it?
“We have consistently focused on carrying quality sweatshirts and T-shirts since Day One. We started out buying from multiple vendors, but over the past 20 years we have focused more on embroidering Nike, UA, and other brands in our warehouse in Pa.”

What is your favorite item in the store right now and why?
“Right now, my favorite item is our recovery footwear by Kane. They are lightweight and super comfortable.”

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“We love seeing our regular customers come back every year since we have been in business. They now bring their grandkids in to shop!”

Global Pursuit

262 96th St., Stone Harbor | shopglobalpursuit.com

What is the inspiration behind the store?
“The inspiration behind the store is our love for the shore,” says Angela Marsh. “I grew up in the area and our family has always felt a deep connection to these beaches.”

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“The store’s name is indicative of our passion for the outdoors and recognition that we are stewards of our ocean and that ocean connects us to everyone on the globe. We live by the ocean and make our livelihoods here because the people who live and visit us also appreciate our beaches.”

Why did you choose to be in this location?
“We chose to be in Stone Harbor because I grew up working in the town and always loved the small-town main street feel of 96th St. The business community is really supportive of one another and always does a great job with events.”

How has the store evolved since you first opened it?
“The store has definitely evolved since we started in 2010, but it is still the same at its core. We strive to have brands that are on the top of everyone’s lips and lists while searching for that new thing that makes shopping with us fresh and new.”

What is your favorite item in the store right now and why?
“My favorite item in the store right now are the people who work in it. Customer service is at the core of what we are and why people come back to see us every season.”

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“My most memorable moment came on the first of August the first season we owned Global Pursuit in Stone Harbor. It was a packed evening and suddenly we lost connection with our Point-of-Sale system. I was huddled under the desk in the office with Susie, our long-time manager trying to recover it while on the phone with the IT guy when we received the news that the POS was gone, we lost all our data.”

Annabelle

2174 Dune Drive, Avalon

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“Coming up with the name was harder than expected,” says Debra Klebanoff. “Every name I ran past my focus group (my kids) was roundly rejected. One day, still nameless, I showed up to my first trade show where I would begin buying clothes and accessories to sell in the store. When the registration desk asked, ‘What is the name of your store,’ I just blurted out ‘Annabelle.’ And so, it began.”

What kinds of brands do you carry?
“Because we aim to carry something for everyone, Annabelle is home to an eclectic assortment of brands running the gamut from summer chic to classic sophistication. Hopefully, all shoppers can find something true to their personal style. Searching for brands both established and emerging is like a treasure hunt for me. Many brands are obvious wardrobe enhancers while others require more thought. Price and quality are always a consideration. The end result is a curated selection of clothes and accessories that reflect our customers’ mix of personal styles. I thoroughly enjoy the process!”

What colors and inspirations did you consider when buying items for this summer?
“We are open only in season and so summer, and all it evokes, is the primary inspiration. As for colors, I mostly considered our customers’ needs and likes and what the various brands were offering for the season ahead. I have a sense of what colors will be most appealing to our customers. Blacks, whites, and other neutrals are always essential, blue is a favorite, and soft patterns tend to sell well. Pink hues are coming on strong as well. It’s definitely a more colorful palette than in prior seasons.”

Why did you choose to be in this location?
“Avalon was an obvious choice for me as it is home to many great stores, making it a favorite destination for shoppers near and far. Also, my family has enjoyed summers in Avalon for decades, so we know our way around. While I toyed with the possibility of New York, where my daughter lives and my husband has an office, or Philadelphia, where my home is located, I knew my vision would be best achieved in Avalon, where my extended family gathers every summer, I have a long history with great memories, and there are no parking meters!”

What is your favorite item in the store right now and why?
“My favorite item in the store, although not clothing, has to be our 14 oversized vine ball lights in the front window. The lights have been the most talked about and coveted feature of the store since we opened 12 years ago. Visitors to the store often ask about buying them but they are no longer available. Sorry to all those who have asked through the years. But in our window, the lights shine on and you can follow them to 2174 Dune Drive!”

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“Some of my most memorable moments are when a soon-to-be bride finds her rehearsal dinner dress or other wedding-related item and the happiness in that moment is magical. Another stand- out memorable moment, not clothing related, happened several years ago. A customer was chatting with my young nieces who were hanging out in the store. After asking the girls where they were from it turned out that not only did my nieces live in the same town where the customer lived long ago, but in the same house! And the customer was able finally to answer the question of who’s initials were carved on the big tree in the back yard. I love that the store creates these opportunities to intersect with people we might otherwise never know.

Here Comes the Sun

2101 Ocean Drive, Avalon | herecomesthesunavalon.com

What is the inspiration behind the store?
“Shopping and browsing new stores has always been a favorite way to spend time with my mother and sister, and more recently with my two daughters!” says Cara Jones. “After coming to Avalon as a family for nearly 20 years, my daughters and I felt there was an opportunity for a swimwear store on the island that catered to all ages and offered an elevated shopping experience across generations.”

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“We opened just one year after the start of COVID, so we so chose a name that metaphorically meant we were leaving the darkness behind and greeting the sun. We also like the Beatles!”

What kind of brands do you carry?
“We carry a wide selection of brands from around the world. To name a few: Frankies Bikinis, Solid & Striped and Helen Jon from the U.S.; FARM Rio and Agua Bendita from South America; Melissa Odabash from the UK; and BOTEH and peony from Australia – among many others! Each year, we strive to update our brand selection and keep current on the latest trends.”

How has the store evolved since you first opened it?
“We started primarily as a swimwear store but have expanded our offerings to include more clothing, shoes, accessories and jewelry. We also are always evolving our roster of brands to bring in new, emerging designers from around the world.”

What kind of experience do you aim for your customers to have when shopping here?
“We want our customers to have an easy, enjoyable shopping experience. The store is well organized and our staff can provide the assistance needed for customers to find the perfect-fitting swimsuit or dress. We hope that all of our shoppers are able to find something that suits their style, and more importantly, have fun doing it.”

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“We strive to be a multigenerational store, so it is especially gratifying to see mothers and daughters (and sometimes even granddaughters) shopping together and finding something special for everyone!”

Closet Boutique

2509 Dune Drive, Avalon | closetboutiqueavalon.com

What kind of brands do you carry?
“Closet Boutique has a beautifully curated selection of contemporary women’s clothing, jewelry, and accessories that takes our girl from beach to boat to happy hour and dinner,” says Danielle O’Hara. “We have something for everyone (every age, style, price point). We have carried designers like Mother Denim, Frame Denim, Autumn Cashmere, Nation, Rails, Love Shack Fancy, Misa, Cara Cara, and Juliet Dunn for many years, and we continue to add new designers each year. Some designers we added this year are Scarlett Poppies, PatBo, CAROLINE CONSTAS, Jérôme Dreyfuss, rag & bone, Kujten cashmere, to name a few.”

What colors and inspirations did you consider when buying items for this summer?
“Spring/ summer 2025 trends that we got down with include quiet luxury meets boho chic. Baggy/wide leg pants are the only pant that matters anymore, polka dots are the neutral of the season, long baggy jean shorts is a look we love, bubble hem line is still here, lots of shell influences, which is perfect for us at the beach.

How do you stay on top of the current trends?
“Robin and I head to New York 4-5 times a year to do all of our buying, so this is how we stay on top of trends. Just being in the city, people-watching and meeting with the designers and brands. Our customers also provide us with inspo ... so many fashionable girls in Avalon and Stone Harbor.”

How has the store evolved since you first opened?
Closet has grown and evolved over the years while staying true to Robin and Lauren’s vision and the beach community we serve. Danielle has added her own feminine flair bringing in many new designers over the years. Danielle and Robin have different styles so each bring their own to the offerings which is why there is something for everyone. Robin is more boho chic, you can find her loving her soft basic sweaters and t shirts and baggy jean shorts in store. While Danielle likes more feminine styles like dresses and heels.

What kind of experience do you aim for your customers to have when shopping here?
“We have a unique thing going at Closet which is my favorite part of the job and I’m so grateful ... so many customers have become friends. We want people to feel like they are walking into their own closet, comfortable and inspired and full of amazing things to choose from. We are so lucky to dress women and then their daughters and then granddaughters over the years. It’s a really special thing!”

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“One of the most memorable moments of mine ... We have a great customer who comes in weekly usually on Sundays for many, many summers. She came in one day a few years ago because she needed something to wear on a blind date. Well, each Sunday we would hear how the blind date turned into more dates and then boyfriend status, etc. One night after closing, we were cleaning up the store after a big event and we hear a bang on the door ... it’s her and him and friends and we let them in and they told us they just got engaged!! We popped a bottle of champagne because we always keep it in store just in case and celebrated with them. An hour later they left (all the women with bags in hand, of course). This was a full-circle moment. We followed their journey literally from date 1 to their engagement ... dressing this client along the way! Avalon is a special community and so many of our customers have become friends.”

The Preppy Palm

2533 Dune Drive, Avalon | preppypalm.com

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“I was a child of the ’80s, oh so preppy,” says Rose Bostard. “The items I was creating were very preppy. Headbands, belts, handbags/purses.”

What colors and inspirations did you consider when buying items for this summer?
“I always buy a variety of colors for summer; I love the store to pop with all the bright colors. But each year you will see a dominating color. I usually get a hint of what it will be 12 months out. This year is RED. I notice that the fashion color that is on trend is never the same as the PANTONE color of the year. Though brown is making its mark, it is not as prevalent as RED this year. (The Pantone Color of the Year for 2025 is PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse.)

How do you stay on top of the current trends?
“Following the trends is easy when you have four daughters. I love clothing, always have, always will!!

How has the store evolved since you first opened it?
“Our store has evolved with time. We started in 2004, small 400 square feet, sold mostly accessories and items I made, grew to the next store 800 square feet, added clothing and more gift items. Moved to Avalon in 2007 into 1,000 square feet, and realized in 2009 we needed more. Now at over 3,000 square feet floor space we are finally comfortable. You may not consider us ‘Preppy’ anymore, but I feel like we still have a classic style.”

What kind of experience do you aim for your customers to have when shopping here?
“To feel ‘at ease’ comfortable. Never rushed or talked into something they were not sure about. We know you have many choices in Avalon, Stone Harbor, and Sea Isle. We are grateful and hope you feel value in the items you bought.”

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“Our customers are family. Some for all 21 years. We have watched their children grow and have children of their own. Wedding, holidays, Christmas cards … and even the loss of family members. We have laughed and cried together. To still be here to share these moments means so much.”

Caroline Boutique

400 Carpenters Lane, Cape May | carolineboutiquecapemay.com

What is the inspiration behind the store?
“We have always been interested in fashion and fabrics,” says Carolina Lacy.

What colors and inspirations did you consider when buying items for this summer?
“We are always inspired by customers wanting to feel good at the shore.”

Why did you choose to be in this location?
“Cape May is a beautiful historic town, perfect place for a boutique.”

How has the store evolved since you first opened it?
“We’ve always had the same outlook – retail therapy.”

What is your favorite item in the store right now and why?
“Our favorite item now – fringe cotton ponchos!”

What kind of experience do you aim for your customers to have when shopping here?
“Relaxation and fun is always our direction!”

The Spot

2544 Dune Drive, Avalon | 9704 Third Ave., Stone Harbor
thespotav.com

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“It’s The Spot to be – your happy place.”

What kind of brands do you carry?
“Faherty, Barbour, Patagonia, Marine Layer, Free People. We carry 60% men’s clothing and 40% women’s.”

Why did you choose this location?
“At first, we [Dave and Anne Markle] chose Avalon because our family has Suncatcher in Stone Harbor, but then it was so popular we opened a store in Stone Harbor, too.”

What is your favorite item in the store right now?
“All of the linen items. Linen is the product of summer and feels good.”

What kind of experience do you aim for your customers to have when shopping here?
“A happy experience, positive and satisfying.”

Is there a memorable moment you had in the store that stands out to you?
“Watching the flood when the ocean met the bay in the store 3-4 years ago. And our grand opening in May of 2016 where we had a live jazz band.”

BluFish

2905 Dune Drive, Avalon
1944 Rt. 9, Cape May Court House
blufishav.com

How did you come up with the store’s name?
“We [Eileen LaPenta and Whitney Kotzman] brainstormed and came up with several different names and BluFish just stuck! We had to spell it without the ‘e’ because that was already taken.”

What kind of brands do you carry?
“We carry a variety of well-known, trusted brands such as Vanguard, Century, Universal, and Rowe, and feature them in our showroom so our clients can see and feel the quality. We also carry several popular, stylish brands such as Worlds Away and Made Goods that help us create the modern coastal vibe our customers love. As for outdoor brands, we know our customers love their outdoor spaces – great quality furniture is essential. We’ve been designing beautiful decks and pool areas with Brown Jordan, Ebel, and Summer Classics for nearly a decade.”

Colors and inspiration when buying items for the store?
“We’re BluFish – known for our signature blue and white! Of course, we are happy to work with any color scheme a customer wants to incorporate in their space, but blue and white never goes out of style and is always classic and fresh, especially at the beach. We are inspired by comfortable yet sophisticated designs and fabrics, natural materials, and textures. We also have an eye for the whimsical. We love a good conversation piece in a room!”

Favorite item in the store?
Eileen: “That’s such a tough question! We have beautiful pieces from Century and

Vanguard, but for me it would be our Brown Jordan collections. Brown Jordan is world-class luxury, with flawless design and unrivaled quality. It not only looks beautiful – it will last a lifetime. We’re proud to be the sole dealer for Brown Jordan in South Jersey.”

Whitney: “My first love is furniture design, but great accessories are key to a well-designed, elevated home. Art, lamps, pillows, books, candles all play a role in creating a beautiful space. I think the original art by local artists George Gehring and Susan Reiser that is featured in our store is fabulous and would be a beautiful addition to any beach house.”

How has the store evolved?
“As Avalon and all the surrounding shore towns have grown, so have we! BluFish is best known for relaxed, modern coastal with contemporary elements and we try to keep in step with that. As for our focus? That will never change. It’s all about personalized customer service and customer satisfaction. We very much appreciate our customers, so many have been with BluFish from the start!”

What kind of experience do you aim for your customers to have when shopping here?
“A boutique, concierge-style experience that exceeds all expectations from selection to delivery. We have a great, experienced sales team – they know many of our customers by name and our customers know them. At the end of the day, our goal is for our customers to feel like we know them, we appreciate them, and we are their ‘go to’ for helping them create a beautiful home.”

Shore Shops

Seven Mile Publishing & Creative

Shore Shops

Avalon Library Books Two Top-Shelf Authors: David Grann and Taylor Jenkins Reid Will Appear in July

Q&A with Sister James

Seven Mile Publishing & Creative