There’s something instantly welcoming about Leslie and Leon Maraist—a couple whose energy and zest for life seem to radiate as brightly as the Florida sunshine they now call home. Since moving to Destin in 2003, the Maraists have embraced the Emerald Coast lifestyle with open arms, blending their New Orleans roots with a love for the outdoors, family, and healthy living.

Originally from New Orleans, Leslie and Leon were drawn to Destin’s proximity to their hometown and its beauty.  “We chose this neighborhood because it’s not too far from our hometown,” Leslie said. “Also, I love being able to walk to our restaurant bar at the clubhouse and the oak lined streets.”

Before making Destin their permanent home, the couple lived in Cape Cod, Massachusetts—a place they still return to every year. “We love both cold and warm adventures,” said Leslie. In fact, one of their favorite things to do here is play in the snow – when there is some!

 

Leslie and Leon’s story began in high school, where they met and quickly became inseparable. Nearly three decades later, their bond remains as strong as ever, with family at the heart of it all. Their three children—Tyler, Lexy, and Leah—each bring their own spark to the family.

Tyler, their oldest, lives in Nashville, where he’s charting his own course in life. Lexy, their middle child, stayed closer to home and now runs her own coffee truck in Destin—a business that perfectly reflects her creativity and community spirit. The youngest, Leah, attends Rocky Bayou Christian School and is part of the elite dance company at Amplified 850, where her dedication shines just as brightly as her smile.

 

Outside home, Leon is the owner of LMPerformance, an online company specializing in aftermarket parts for muscle cars, race cars, and exotics. The business, now over 25 years strong, serves enthusiasts around the world. Leon, a Loyola University graduate, credits his success to persistence and passion. Leslie brings her own brand of energy to the family’s dynamic. An Integrated Movement Specialist and Pilates Reformer instructor, she focuses on helping others move with strength, grace, and alignment. Leslie has been a Stroll contributor for some time now.

 

The couple’s daily routines reflect a commitment to movement and activity. Both Leslie and Leon enjoy gym workouts, Pilates sessions, bike rides, and fishing trips. They also love experimenting in the kitchen—discovering new clean recipes and baking beautiful loaves of homemade sourdough bread.

When they’re not working or traveling, Leslie and Leon can often be found enjoying the simple pleasures of coastal life—whether it’s biking through Regatta Bay, savoring an old-fashioned on the patio, or just appreciating another sunset over the water.  “There is no place in Destin like this.”