Business Buzz
Historic Smithville and the Village Greene have long ranked among South Jersey’s most distinctive destinations. Cobblestone walkways, footbridges, historic buildings and locally owned shops and restaurants surround Lake Meone, creating an experience that is difficult to duplicate.
At the center of the village is the historic Smithville Inn, which traces its roots to 1787. James Baremore built what became a popular stop for travelers between the Philadelphia area and the Jersey Shore.
Fred and Ethel Noyes purchased the building in 1952, restored it and opened a 42-seat restaurant. The inn can now accommodate more than 200 guests. As its popularity grew, other historic South Jersey buildings were moved to the property, restored and converted into shops and eateries.
Today, Historic Smithville and the Village Greene feature more than 60 specialty shops, seven eateries and family attractions that include a train, carousel and paddleboats. The village also presents more than 30 free events and festivals throughout the year, including Mayfest, Oktoberfest, car shows, children’s activities, Girls Night Out and holiday celebrations.
Smithville introduced Christmas in July this year, combining seasonal decorations and activities with summertime shopping. The traditional holiday season remains one of its biggest draws, highlighted by the Magical Talking Tree and the Holiday Light Show on the Lake. The show features more than 120 illuminated Christmas trees synchronized to music.
Two new independent stores, The Toy Cellar and Brick Shoppe, are joining the village’s retail lineup.
The Toy Cellar opened July 24. Owner Darlene Hinrichsen, who also operates the Crafting Cellar, plans to hold a grand opening celebration.
The independently owned toy store offers classic toys, stuffed animals, squishies, books, games and craft activities. Its slogan, “The best memories start here,” reflects Hinrichsen’s goal of offering toys that evoke childhood memories in a destination known for nostalgia and family traditions.
Hinrichsen grew up in Milmay and began her career operating an accounting and bookkeeping business. She later turned her interest in crafting from a home-based venture into a retail operation.
She gained retail experience on the Wildwood Boardwalk from 1993 through 1998. She now attends trade shows to find distinctive products and classic toys that may not be available at big-box retailers.
Hinrichsen said she was drawn to Smithville’s charm and strong sense of community. She and her husband, Mike, have two sons, three granddaughters and three Jack Russell terriers.
Brick Shoppe, meanwhile, is preparing to open at 3 N. New York Road, across from the Smithville Inn. Cameron and Julia Lease own the store, with help from their 5-year-old son, Brayden, who holds the playful title of “chief kid officer.”
“We’re a unique destination for LEGO fans of all ages,” Cameron Lease said.
Brick Shoppe will carry a variety of LEGO sets and allow customers to purchase individual bricks in bulk and create their own minifigures. The inventory will also include LEGO-themed backpacks, lunchboxes, storage containers, books, accessories and gifts.
Cameron Lease grew up in Mays Landing and graduated from Oakcrest High School. Julia Lease grew up in Toms River. They met while attending Ramapo College and now live in Barnegat.
The couple’s inspiration for the store came from Brayden’s enthusiasm for LEGO products. As chief kid officer, he helps inspect sets, pieces and other products to determine what might appeal to young customers.
The store is scheduled to open Sept. 1.
The Toy Cellar and Brick Shoppe reflect the character of Historic Smithville, where independent business owners can turn personal interests into specialized retail concepts. In turn, visitors can find products and experiences unavailable at many conventional shopping centers.
Supporting these locally owned stores helps preserve the personality and economic vitality of Smithville and the surrounding community.
Rich Baehrle is a commercial and residential real estate broker with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, Realtors. He has been a real estate professional for 43 years. He can be reached at 609-226-6680 or richard.baehrle@foxroach.com.
