Today we’d like to introduce you to Tim McKevlin
Hi Tim, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My father, Dennis McKevlin, opened the shop in 1965 in the storage area of what was once the Folly Bowling Center, which he had co-managed. He and my older brother, Ted, built up the business and moved it into larger quarters on Center Street (in the spot where Rita’s Seaside Grille now sits). After Ted graduated from college, I was given more responsibility for buying merchandise and running the shop at the ripe age of 13. In 1980 we constructed our new shop in its present location and expanded it in 1983. Here’s a link to more (probably more than you want): https://mckevlins.com/pages/our-story
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Some of this is also included in that link. To summarize: In the late 60’s and early 70’s, surfing and surfers faced many challenges on Folly Beach and were treated very poorly by city hall. Essentially the local politicians attempted to discourage surfing by making it illegal to surf in the best surfing areas. My father helped organize surfers and their parents and challenged the city officials. Eventually the matter was taken to court where the City settled and returned the surfers’ rights.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
McKevlin’s views itself as a vehicle for its staff to share experiences and knowledge with others to help people enjoy the ocean with the best surf equipment.
We also believe it’s important to offer the customer unique merchandise – brands that they may not find anywhere else nearby.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
We are active on social media (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube), and welcome new followers. This year we’re celebrating our 60th Anniversary with a celebration outside next to the shop on May 3 from Noon to 4PM. This will include a live band, vendors, food, jump castle, vintage surfboard display, and a new surfboard raffle. Everyone is invited! Then, on July 12 we’re sponsoring an 18 years and younger surf contest called the “DJ McKevlin Gromfest”. McKevlin’s sponsors a 9-person team of surf “ambassadors” with ages ranging from 13 to 68 . Six years ago we started the Beach Project where we offer a selection of products featuring the art of Chris Kemp. At the end of each year, we donate 20% of the sale of this merchandise to a local, environmental group like the Charleston Surfrider Foundation, the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network, and the Charleston Waterkeeper.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mckevlins.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mckevlinssurfshop
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mckevlins/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/McKevlinsTV
