For Matt Blackwell, there’s no place like the beach and no moment quite like getting married with the ocean as your backdrop. When Matt and Stephanie began planning their wedding, they wanted something unique, intimate, and memorable. The solution? A destination wedding in beautiful Seaside, Florida. With their four kids in tow, the family packed up for what turned out to be an unforgettable adventure.

Choosing a location for a wedding is no easy feat, but for Matt and Stephanie, Seaside was the perfect blend of scenic beauty and relaxed charm. "We were looking for a place to elope with our kids," Matt shares, "We wanted a beautiful atmosphere, a fun environment, and somewhere easy to get around."

Seaside, a quaint and picturesque beach town along Florida's Gulf Coast, checked all the boxes. Known for its sugar-white sand, pastel-colored cottages, and welcoming vibe, it offered just the right mix of relaxation and excitement for their special day.

Matt and his family made the most of their time in Seaside, soaking up everything the area had to offer. “We spent a few days on the beaches, eating at some great restaurants, and touring Seaside—all at the convenience of a golf cart ride,” he recalls.

One standout dining experience was at Café Thirty-A, a local favorite where the family enjoyed some of the best seafood the area has to offer. “It was awesome,” Matt says enthusiastically. He highly recommends Café Thirty-A for anyone visiting the area who loves fresh, local cuisine.

Of course, the highlight of the trip was the wedding itself. The couple chose Grayton Beach, a quieter, scenic spot just down the road from Seaside, for their big day. While the weather didn’t exactly cooperate, it only added to the uniqueness of the moment. “The weather was very dramatic, which made it memorable and made for some great pictures!” Matt laughs.

Despite the winds and the overcast skies, Matt and Stephanie exchanged vows in front of their four kids and followed the nuptials with their wedding cake from Sweet Henrietta’s Treats, a beloved local bakery known for its delicious creations. It wasn’t a grand, over-the-top wedding, but something far more personal and meaningful. “Obviously, getting married on July 9th was the best part of the trip,” Matt reflects. “But other than that, we really enjoyed trying new restaurants, drinking great wine, and spending quality time with our blended, blessed family.”

Matt has a few tips for any neighbors who might be inspired to take a trip to Seaside after hearing his story. “Definitely rent a golf cart,” he advises. “It makes for a fun time cruising the beach and easy parking!” Golf carts are a staple of the Seaside lifestyle and the perfect way to explore the town’s many charming nooks and crannies.

He also suggests exploring the surrounding beach towns, where locals are as friendly as the town is beautiful. However, one important word of caution: “Watch your parking! They like to ticket for parking…” he warns.

What made the trip even more special for Matt and Stephanie was the chance to bring their kids along and turn the wedding into a true family experience. From hanging out on the beach to discovering new places to eat, the wedding was as much about blending their families as it was about blending their lives. “It’s something we’ll never forget,” he says.

So, whether you’re looking for a wedding destination or just a relaxing beach getaway, Matt Blackwell recommends Seaside with his whole heart. A place where the sand is soft, the people are friendly, and the memories you create will last a lifetime. Just remember to keep an eye on your parking!