For John and Caroline Freeman, Isle of Hope has been the perfect place to put down roots, raise their family, and embrace life on the coast. Since moving into their home in 2016, the Freemans have made the most of their surroundings, whether through fishing, exploring nature, or spending time with family.

Originally from Augusta, John spent childhood summers at his family’s Tybee Island beach house, fostering a deep appreciation for the area. Caroline, who grew up in Plano, Texas, was more than ready to swap Houston’s congestion for Savannah’s charm after finishing optometry school. The two met as University of Georgia students—Caroline studying biology and John majoring in business management. A fraternity weekend in Savannah early in their relationship turned out to be a preview of their future.

Today, John works as a product manager in healthcare, while Caroline owns Savannah Family Eye Care, a practice she opened three years ago. Their daughter, Hattie, 5, keeps them entertained with her quick wit and independent spirit. She’s a Junior Kindergarten student at Country Day, where she enjoys Spanish and cooking classes. A member of the Joyful Noise choir at Wesley Monumental United Methodist Church, she brings energy to every performance—sometimes more dancing than singing.

Two-year-old Tate is an easygoing but sports-obsessed little brother. Unlike Hattie, he’s captivated by basketball and tennis, and his coordination is already impressing the family. A devoted Georgia Bulldogs fan, he’s happiest playing golf with his dad or spending time with his favorite person—his “Gram,” Caroline’s mother, who relocated to Savannah from Texas three years ago.

The family’s household also includes their black lab mix, Khali, and an orange cat named Peanut Butter, who was adopted from Coastal Pet Rescue last year.

When they’re not keeping up with their kids, John and Caroline enjoy activities of their own. John is involved with Civitan International and serves on UGA’s local alumni board. Caroline, a former Savannah Philharmonic Chorus singer, now gives back by providing eye care and glasses to those in need through her business. The couple also makes time for sports—John on the golf course and Caroline playing what she calls “below-average” pickleball.

Their love for Isle of Hope extends beyond their home. They’re regulars at Driftaway Cafe, Castaways, and The Wyld, and their Saturday routine often includes a stop at Forsyth Farmers’ Market or Service Brewing. But some of their favorite moments are closer to home—taking their signature “nature laps” around the neighborhood after dinner, spotting owls, foxes, and other wildlife along the way.

For the Freemans, Isle of Hope isn’t just where they live—it’s where their family has flourished. Whether celebrating holidays with visiting grandparents, enjoying the sense of community at Wesley Monumental, or simply soaking in coastal life, they’ve found their perfect place.