For charleston-area residents and visitors alike, a stop at gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant to peruse the carefully curated merchandise and embrace the meticulous, upbeat ambience and authentic Southern hospitality is a must.
During the past 58 years, Gwynn’s has been consistent in its embodiment of family and its upscale niche as a luxury retailer dedicated to service, quality and exclusivity. To many devotees, the retailer is in a class by itself and, consequently, enjoys near landmark status.
“Being a family-owned business sets us apart from other stores,” says Madison Simon, who is the granddaughter of the founders. “When you walk into Gwynn’s you really get that family feeling from all the associates and the owners. The moment you walk in the door you see the photo of the founders—Gwen and Norris Ward—on the wall. Then you see my dad, and you see me. Family is at the forefront of everything we do. We want our customers to feel like family because family is at the root of it all. The reality is you are dealing with family operators rather than a corporate chain of command. The store is run like a family, and the whole team is like a family.”
Simon grew up in the business, answering phones and wrapping gifts. “We used to have a big jellybean case, and I would just live for those jellybeans,” she says, reminiscing about her childhood memories of Gwynn’s. “It’s always been a part of the conversation at the dinner table—how we did at the store today; how we can be involved; how we can do better. I always knew I would eventually be involved in the business.”
For Simon, a large part of learning the business from the inside out was her proximity to her father. “I am so fortunate to be able to learn from my dad, Marshall Simon, who undoubtedly has carried us to where we are today. He has taught me, among many things, the importance of being in the building. People need to see you to believe in what we’re doing, what they’re buying and what we’re selling. We are so much more than the pretty things that we sell. We are a lifestyle, a family and a cornerstone to our Charleston community that we love so much,” she says.
Employing five buyers, who are supported by three assistant buyers, Gwynn’s is poised to create a well-rounded selection of merchandise that caters to both women and men, spanning contemporary and luxury categories as well as fine jewelry, cosmetics and gifts.
“We conduct the majority of our buying in New York, where many of our key designers and showrooms are located,” says Gwynn’s marketing director, Diana Knox. “We also attend womenswear showrooms in Paris, and our buying team has expanded their reach by making annual trips to Milan. This allows us to deepen relationships with designers like Brunello Cucinelli, from whom we carry an extensive selection of womenswear, menswear and accessories. Buying directly in Italy ensures that our assortment reflects both the brand’s vision and the unparalleled craftsmanship for which they’re known.”
Renowned for its exclusives and designer labels, including Jimmy Choo, Akris, Dolce&Gabbana, Zimmermann, Zegna, Lafayette 148, Pomellato, Oscar de la Renta, Tom Ford and more, Gwynn’s offers personal shopping services, merchandise and gift delivery, and tailoring.
The 35 employees who work at Gwynn’s take great pride in the attention to detail that sets the retailer apart from the competition. “Gwynn’s is more than a store; it’s an experience,” notes Knox. “Upon entrance, you’ll be met with our coffee and snack bar, which is always a hit. You may also enjoy complimentary wines and spirits while shopping the latest designers. The customer experience is at the forefront of everything we do.”
In the ever-popular beauty department, complimentary makeovers are offered with a three-product purchase. “This personalized approach to skincare and beauty ensures every customer leaves feeling confident and refreshed,” says Knox.
Gwynn’s also hosts about 30 events annually, including trunk shows, designer visits and beauty-focused gatherings. “These events not only highlight the brands we carry, but they also create a sense of community. Our holiday events, such as photos with the real Santa and soirees complete with Christmas carolers, create magical moments our clients cherish,” she says.
The upscale retailer also showcases two private shopping suites complete with a full open bar to make the day a “five-star experience.” Gwynn’s is also widely recognized for its signature gold gift boxes and complimentary gift wrapping—whether it’s a gift or a personal treat. “People really take notice of the gold gift boxes. It’s similar to seeing someone carrying a Tiffany’s package; you know exactly where it’s from, immediately,” says Knox.
A second Gwynn’s will be opening in Downtown Charleston. “Another store is definitely on the horizon at a later date on King Street in the heart of downtown,” says Knox, who works closely with Madison Simon.
Founded in 1967, Gwynn’s began as a modest 600-square-foot store that specialized in women’s clothing brands, such as Bobbie Brooks and Villager. By 1970, the store had moved to a nearby shopping center, expanding to include children’s clothing, gifts and menswear. In 1977, Gwynn’s relocated again to a larger space and continued to drive sales. In 1990, Marshall and Lynn Simon, Madison Simon’s parents, purchased the store, further expanding it in 1992 by building a new storefront in Mount Pleasant at its present address. Located just over the bridge from Downtown Charleston, Gwynn’s is a convenient spot that combines proximity to the city with the charm and ease of a suburban setting, including plenty of parking.
Through the years, Gwynn’s has continued to innovate, offering curbside pickup, local delivery and an enhanced online experience. In 2021, Gwynn’s joined The Forum Group, a prestigious collection of luxury independent stores. Now boasting 22,000 square feet, the store carries between 5,000 and 7,000 SKUs at any given time, reflecting a careful selection of luxury fashion, beauty and home goods—often chosen with individual clients in mind. The selection runs the gamut—from beauty items priced as low as $20 to a $38,000 watch safe and fine jewelry items selling for as much as $50,000.
“This robust inventory ensures we meet the diverse needs of our clientele while staying aligned with the latest trends,” says Knox. “While we cater equally to men and women, our women’s department has more SKUs overall. That said, both departments feature a range of styles, from casual to formal, ensuring there’s something for everyone.”
Gwynn’s bestsellers include fine jewelry, luxury handbags, tailored men’s suits, women’s ready to wear and curated gift items. During the holidays, the store’s beauty and skincare products, and home décor, also perform exceptionally well.
Always rowing in the same direction helps the Gwynn’s team coalesce around the company’s brand identity. “Gwynn’s is a shopping destination renowned for its unwavering commitment to exceptional service and timeless style,” says Knox. “The Gwynn’s brand stands as a beacon of luxury and quality, with community and family values at its core.”
Simon couldn’t agree more. “The store’s future is looking bright as we look ahead to the Gwynn’s expansion on King Street later this year,” she says. “It’s a very exciting time and one that we do not take for granted. To me, the sky is the limit, and we are excited to keep going in that direction.” *
Ellen Uribe is an award-winning journalist and a communications expert. She is a sought-after speaker, participating as a moderator and panelist at numerous industry events, conferences and broadcast outlets. She has contributed to Vanity Fair, Palm Beach Life, The New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Women’s Wear Daily and Time Magazine.
Marshall Simon and Madison Simon
