The Bluffton Bookshop hosted its grand opening celebration on July 11 at 89 Bridge St. in Bluffton, S.C. Owner Allyn Oliver's soft opening for the venture was at the beginning of July after months of renovations and planning.
At the time, she posted: "After months of dreaming, planning, and (let's be honest) waiting--our doors are OPEN! From friends chatting over books to kids peeking at the mouse house, to ice cream on the porch--these first few days have been pure magic.... We're here, and we're so excited to share this space with you."
Oliver previously told the Island Packet that she had dreamed of opening a bookshop, and found an opportunity in Bluffton: "I've always been a huge reader. Owning a bookstore is just one of those pipe dreams."
The Bluffton Bookshop is located around the corner from Oyster Factory Park in a renovated, 80-year-old home. Oliver told the Island Packet she wants the bookshop to fit in with the character and community of Bluffton, envisioning a place where people can take their time, find potential reads, and enjoy a coffee or tea.
The shop plans to host events including author talks, Mah Jongg games, and book signings. Two pop-up shops are planned for the summer. Attached to the bookstore is the Frozen Fiddler, which serves ice cream, shaved ice, and other treats.