• EDIT LEADERBOARD HERE

    • Mar 14, 2012

    by Layla

    Seaside

    Kev and I are coming up on wedding anniversary #8 this June, and I’d love to take a breather and sneak off somewhere (inexpensive and close to home) with him for a couple of days.

    Back in ’04, we honeymooned a few hours down the road, on the Florida gulf coast. We stayed in a cute, little cottage (that’s no longer for rent- boo) in a town called Seaside…

    (via)

    Remember Seaside from movie The Truman Show? It’s such a pretty little community…

    There are small, colorful cottages, like this one, that Jim Carrey’s character called home in the movie…

    (via)

    Looks like the front door got a new coat of paint after “Truman” left town…

    Kev and I had so much fun wandering around, looking at all the houses while we were there. We only snapped this one, quick pic (can you believe that?) of the cottage we stayed in…

    The bedroom and bathroom were located on the first floor, and the living room and kitchen were upstairs, and if you squinted reeeeeal hard, you could see the tee-tiniest little sliver of the sea from the balcony on the second floor.

    We went back to Seaside for our 5th anniversary and stayed in one of their “Motor Court” cottages…

    via

    via

    I took all kinds of pictures on that trip, but then (accidentally) deleted them because I thought Kev had already transferred them to our computer. Key word: thought. Oops!

    I did, however, find some more inspiring Seaside pics while Googling  last night…

    (via)

    (via, and via)

    Get a load of this big guy…

    (via)

    It’s porches must be facing the ocean…*sigh*…

    (via)

    Here’s a peek at the kitchen…

    (via)

    …and here’s one of it’s bedrooms…

    (via)

     Something tells me that one isn’t available for rent OR in our price range- ha!

    Anywho, we’ll be in Atlanta for the Haven Conference a couple of days right before our anniversary this year, so I’m on the look out for a quiet little (budget-friendly) place for us to chill out in somewhere close to, or in between here and there. Maybe a pet-friendly lake cabin somewhere in Alabama?  Drop me a line if you know of one!

    PS- Speaking of weddings and photography, Kevin published a new post up over at the ShootFlyShoot blog yesterday!

    Pin It!
    Shoot Fly Shoot
    • COMMENT
    • VIEW COMMENTS
    • TWEET
    • LIKE
    filed under: About Us, Travel
    tagged with: , .

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    You may use these HTML tags and attributes: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <strike> <strong>

    121 Responses to Seaside

    1. Shauna says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:06 pm

      I have the perfect “Seaside” for you for one of your many anniversaries to come! We go to a “Seaside” as often as possible in Cape Cod. You must check it out. http://seasidecapecod.com/

      Its absolutely one of my most favorite places evah.

      Reply
    2. The Hill Hangout says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:10 pm

      Isn’t Seaside incredible? We have stayed there a few times over the years and absolutely adore it! Would love to go back and take my girls. Your wedding photos are gorgeous. Timeless and classic.

      Reply
    3. skye @ neathering our fest says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:10 pm

      Awww how fun! I love all the pictures too. It is hard to believe you ever existed without a camera in your hand to take a ton of pictures of the beautiful home you were in!!

      Reply
    4. hello haha narf says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:14 pm

      oh my word, you are simply stunning as a bride!
      (happy anniversary)

      Reply
    5. Helen says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:16 pm

      Have you tried looking on VRBO Vacation Rentals By Owner ? We live on the west coast and there is always something and you deal directly with the owners. Just a thought, and Happy Anniversary.

      Reply
    6. Carolyn says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:18 pm

      We use to live near there and it’s one of my FAV places to go. BTW, we are headed that way in a couple of weeks for Spring Break. There’s the coolest toy store there that we take the kids to. Plus, there a GREAT antique warehouse just down the road that I have to visit often. Believe it or not, Seaside was actually failing financially until “The Truman Show” was filmed there. People couldn’t believe it was an actual place and not a Hollywood film lot! That’s why they had to build the Watercolors Resort and why Rosemary Beach nearby has exploded as well. It’s a great place for a vacation (or to live :D ).

      Reply
      • Jaime DeArman says:
        Mar 15, 2012 at 1:16 pm

        We love Seaside too. We live in Birmingham, but got married nearby and go down often. Carolyn, where is the antique warehouse? Is it the one in Grayton?

        Reply
        • Carolyn says:
          Mar 15, 2012 at 3:02 pm

          Nope! I couldn’t remember the name so I took a “drive” on Google Maps to find it. I don’t think I’ve ever seen cars whip by me so fast on 98 before. Hope I didn’t freak anyone out when I went the wrong way on the road, LOL!

          The name is called Bienvenue Antiques and here is their address:
          Bienvenue Antiques & Interiors
          11840 US Highway 98 W, Destin, FL 32550
          (850) 837-5122

          It’s 2 huge warehouses full of “stuff” to die for! There is also another warehouse in Panama City Beach that gets a lot of her stuff directly shipped from the England countryside. Her husband goes over and ships crates of the stuff back over here because it’s so cheap to buy it there. Some of the stuff they just find thrown out on the streets since no really likes antiques over there. She has hundreds of those stain glassed windows hanging from the ceiling. Don’t remember the name of it either (must be getting old, lol!), but it’s on the north side of 98, right on the road. I think it’s near the “Man of the Sea” museum there. I was too tired to “drive” that far down on Google Maps.

          Happy Antique-ing!
          Carolyn
          vintageresurrections.com

          Reply
          • Jaime DeArman says:
            Mar 15, 2012 at 3:14 pm

            Thanks so much! If we don’t go down to 30-A in a few weeks, we will be down in May. My sweet husband will have to bear with me because I can’t wait to check out both places!!!

            Be careful driving on Google Maps! LOL!

            Layla, we got married at Inlet Beach which is past Rosemary Beach (but off of 98). You’d probably love the house. It’s called Anna’s Veranda. It’s a renovated Victorian that they moved from Marianna, FL. We stayed after for our honeymoon as well. Seaside has been in our hearts for 20 years now. All of 30A is special in our opinion. It can get crowded during the busy season, but in the quiet times there isn’t anywhere I’d rather be!

            Reply
    7. Maya @ Completely Coastal says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:22 pm

      Seaside is so super cute! We almost rented there for a month. Well, almost doesn’t count, doesn’t it. We ended up choosing something more private. The homes are pretty close together. But oh so charming.

      Reply
    8. Beth@UnskinnyBoppy says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:24 pm

      Ahhhh I’ll be headed to 30-A over Spring Break and I cannot WAIT!! Best place on earth, that little strip of coast.

      Debbie at Refresh/Restyle has a house on Lake Martin. Maybe she’s rent it to ya! :)

      Reply
      • Layla says:
        Mar 14, 2012 at 4:29 pm

        1. Have SO MUCH FUN on Spring Break! and 2. Criss-crossing my fingers Debbie’s lake house is available for rent- that would ROCK! :-D

        Reply
    9. Rebekah says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:24 pm

      I love Seaside! I went there many years ago when my grandma lived in Niceville. I miss the Gulf Coast…happy memories. :)

      Reply
    10. Sabrina says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:27 pm

      Seaside is my “happy place” and we go about every other year. We’re going to Charleston and Savannah this year, so I’m going to miss the beautiful beaches of Florida! :( But I’ll visit Folly Beach and Tybee Island, so that’s a plus!

      Reply
    11. Kristi @ Creative Kristi says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:31 pm

      So my family owns a lake front cottage way up here in Maine if you are so inclined to come for a visit! ;) It’s at the end of a long dirt road with water on 3 sides. *ahem* My vote for coastal get-aways that are not free though is Charleston, SC hands-down. Love love love it there!! Happy ‘met’-aversary!

      Reply
      • Layla says:
        Mar 14, 2012 at 4:34 pm

        Ooh- your cottage sounds awesome! :-D
        And thank you for the “met-aversary” wishes! Hard to believe we met NINE years ago, today. Time flies!!!

        Reply
    12. Jenny says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:36 pm

      We are going to Seaside in 3 weeks!!!!
      I can totally relate with your love of that beautiful town.

      Reply
    13. Kristin says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:44 pm

      I am on my way to SEASIDE this very Friday! My Dad lives there!
      I will see if I find anything for you while I am there!
      Thanks!
      K

      Reply
    14. Lisa says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:49 pm

      Can I say, “WOW”. That town looks amazing…I’m going there someday. Just decided it.

      Reply
    15. Fairfield House says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:53 pm

      Layla,
      I guess every state along the ocean has a town named Seaside! Unfortunately, Snookie and The Situation ruined NJ’s! (For the record they are NYers!) I will keep my eyes open for you.
      How did you and Kevin meet? So glad you did! :)
      Your Friend,
      Deborah

      Reply
    16. Brooke says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:54 pm

      We married in Seaside 6 years ago, ceremony was in the Chapel. Beautiful place to be anytime!!!! Happy Anniversary to you, hope you can get back there soon. We would love to get back each year but it is pricey :) If you are going to be in Atlanta, we are NE Georgia & close to Lake Lanier Islands. They have nice cabins / cottages you can rent. If I think of anywhere else, I will get back with you. Most of my family lives in Prattville, small world!

      Reply
    17. Heather says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:57 pm

      Do you think you’ll do another adoption update soon? I’ve been praying for your little family and I’m hoping that things are working out for you and Kev during the process! I know it took my parents a good three years before we were finally able to take my youngest brother and sister home from Russia, but it was so worth it and I can’t imagine life without them now :)

      Reply
    18. Betsy Derr says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 4:57 pm

      So that’s where that bed is from that is all over Pinterest!!!

      Reply
    19. Claudia says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 5:01 pm

      Aww, you guys look adorable – and you’re another June bride :D Seaside looks awesome, I hope we get to visit someday.

      Reply
    20. Carol says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 5:03 pm

      I am on the west coast and never been to Seaside. It looks soooo cute! No offense to the big house, but I love the little beach towns that have been kept small.

      Reply
      • Layla says:
        Mar 14, 2012 at 5:08 pm

        Ooh, you might actually dig Seaside then, Carol. It’s super quaint! No hotels or chain businesses, and you can ride your bike from one end of town to the other! :-D

        Reply
    21. Christy says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 5:04 pm

      If you are gonna be in Georgia you could always go to Tybee! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Mermaid Cottages and most of the cottages will welcome your fur babies.

      Reply
      • Layla says:
        Mar 14, 2012 at 7:29 pm

        Hey Christy! We’re actually looking to try a new place this year, but we love Diane and her Mermaid Cottages, too! :-D

        Reply
    22. Susan says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 5:06 pm

      Happy anniversary you two! I’m also from Bama and now reside in the burbs of Atlanta. Can’t really think of anything in between, and lake Lanier does have some cute cottages, however my favorite staycation place is about an hour past Atlanta (if you’re willing to drive a little further) at Reynolds plantation. You can rent a nice cozy cottage and have the luxury of the ritz next door…has to be the most remotely located ritz there is….it’s where Carrie Underwood was married :) they have some listings on vrbo if you want to check it out…I think you’d love it :)

      Reply
    23. Traci Fuqua says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 5:14 pm

      Very sweet wedding photos! I hope you find some place to have a wonderful anniversary!

      Reply
    24. Nuit says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 5:26 pm

      omg how beautiful!!! all these cottages make me wanna pack my bags and leave manana! oh and your wedding photos are just adorable. Congrats on your anniversary!

      Reply
    25. Lindsey says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 5:26 pm

      I love it! We got married in Seaside TOO! We haven’t been back there in the last five years so it’s nice to see the pictures. Sitting in the hammock in our beachside honeymoon cottage has always been our ‘happy place’. And eating at Criollas…don’t get me started. Congrats!

      Reply
    26. Virginia says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 5:29 pm

      Happy Anniversary! WOW! 8 years! That’s awesome! Hope you find the perfect place to getaway! :) ~ Virginia

      Reply
    27. Shauna says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 5:30 pm

      Savannah isn’t really THAT far past Atlanta, and don’t those Mermaid gals owe you some favors ?? ;) My Step-Brother-In-Law also has a house on the shore in Alabama…a little bigger than you need, but give me a holler and I could maybe finagle a discount if it is available. http://www.vrbo.com/275725

      (Also good to keep in mind for future family vacations with your parents and siblings!)

      Reply
      • Layla says:
        Mar 14, 2012 at 7:24 pm

        Hey Shauna! We’re actually thinking we’d like to try a new place…somewhere between our house and Atlanta, so we can swing home and pick up Max before we check in! :-)

        Reply
    28. Denise says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 5:58 pm

      That is the most picture perfect town I’ve ever seen!! I would LOVE to live in a place that cute.

      Reply
    29. Niki says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 6:18 pm

      Check out vrbo.com . . . they have lots of listings that are reasonable.

      Reply
    30. Barb @ Grits and Glamour says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 6:38 pm

      Too funny Layla. My 20th Anni will be just a few days before Haven, too.
      In fact, we are prolonging our Anni celebration until I get back. I wasn’t going to go but Hubby knew I really, really wanted to. So are celebrating the following week.

      Reply
    31. Kate says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 6:40 pm

      I know everyone love it but I found Seaside positively frightening in its fake perfection. I don’t know why – I didn’t expect to feel that but it felt like walking through Disneyland – only people actually lived there. I know – I’m weird!

      Reply
      • Layla says:
        Mar 14, 2012 at 7:22 pm

        Aw, I’m sorry you didn’t have a good experience in Seaside, Kate. Obviously it’ll always hold a special place in my heart, and I look very forward to visiting again someday! :-)

        Reply
    32. Donna Pizzi says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 6:41 pm

      Hi, Try airbnb.com and plug in Seaside, FL. It’s a great way to find rooms, apts and homes around the world. And inexpensive, in many cases. Enjoy your blog, Layla… and Kev’s photos. (We’ve been shooting, writing, styling houses for many-a-year, and are very impressed by your style!)

      Reply
    33. Jan says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 6:42 pm

      I have always wanted to go to Seaside – heck, I’m pretty sure I’ve always wanted to LIVE in Seaside!

      We enjoyed a great vacation a few years ago perched in a cabin on the side of a mountain in Blue Ridge GA, a couple hours from Atlanta. No sea, but it was marvy! (Cuddle Up Cabin Rentals)

      Jan

      Reply
    34. Karen says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 6:51 pm

      Layla and Kevin,
      Happy Anniversary! You two were a match made in heaven!
      Karen

      Reply
    35. Leslie says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 7:00 pm

      Seaside has always been one of my favorite places to visit! It’s such a unique little town. :) I love the daybed in the last photo! I want one!!

      Reply
    36. Debbie refresh restyle says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 7:14 pm

      I will send you the info, it’s a 3 BR with 2 Bath condo on Stillwaters near Dadeville. I hope it all works out :)
      Debbie

      Reply
    37. Taylor K. says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 7:23 pm

      My mom and I used to vacation in Seaside each summer. I miss it so much! She would always rent me a bike and I loved just riding around the town. Seaside is so quaint, perfect, and relaxing. I want to go back SO BAD!

      Reply
      • Layla says:
        Mar 14, 2012 at 7:32 pm

        You’re making me want to book another cottage at Seaside this year! What a charming comment, Taylor! Thank you for leaving it! :-)

        Reply
    38. Lesley says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 7:33 pm

      Seaside has gotten a little too crowded and touristy IMO (I’m a local). It’s lost some of its quaintness from everyone coming to see how quaint it is! LOL! I much prefer Rosemary Beach. Still lovely and charming but not quite so busy. And it makes for beautiful photo backdrops. I take all my 30-A brides there for formals and do many engagement sessions there as well.

      Happy anniversary to you both!

      Reply
    39. Jenevieve says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 7:57 pm

      I know you said you were looking in Alabama possibly, but have you ever been to Hilton Head Island (SC, nice community) or Savannah (larger and absolutely beautiful)? They are both fantastic towns, and very romantic :)

      Oh, and no more than a 4 or 5 hour drive from Atlanta. It’s an easy drive that I’ve made a few times myself.

      Reply
      • Jenevieve says:
        Mar 14, 2012 at 7:59 pm

        Oh, I meant to say I also know several people who go to Sanibel, FL every year and rave about it! It’s not too far from Fort Myers, I believe.

        Reply
    40. Amy @ All In A Day says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 8:07 pm

      Hey girl! We are a couple hours from the 30-A area as well. It’s so gorgeous there! My best friend actually has a house in Seacrest Beach (right next to Rosemary Beach) that is gorgeous and quaint! She said she’d give you guys a good deal if you ever wanted to stay there! Here’s the link to their house: http://www.brswvacations.com/Rentals/Bella-Bella/1022/

      Happy Anniversary! See ya at Haven! xoxo

      Reply
    41. gina says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 8:34 pm

      I have a place @ Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia. If you want to head farther north you can use it as long as you “TLC” it up for me!
      I’ll be celebrating my 30th in June.

      Reply
    42. kelly in georgia says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 8:52 pm

      Oh Seaside…love it…stayed there many times, but we haven’t been back in several years. I was afraid they had changed so much of the cottage style to European in the shops…but the beach is still to die for. A couple of weeks ago we stayed at a bed and breakfast in North Georgia (about 1 hour and 15 minutes from the outlet place with the Pottery Barn outlet). It was called Glen Ella Springs – not cottages but the rooms were precious and the food was good. It is very private (and romantic!). Interesting little shops there in Clarkesville. You might want to consider it.
      If you are willing to drive to Highlands, NC, I love the Inn at Half Mile Farm….even better than Glen Ella.

      Reply
    43. Laurie Miller says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 9:02 pm

      We visited the Pan handle in Florida a number of years ago and stumbled upon Seaside. I loved everything about it!

      Reply
    44. cheri says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 10:07 pm

      Oooh… Love your wedding pictures! Love your blog! Love Seaside! :)
      Happy Anniversary! May you have many more happy years together.

      Reply
    45. Amanda D says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 10:10 pm

      oh I love Seaside! my husband and I also really love Pensacola. We are going for our “3rd honeymoon” (or is it 4th? I forget…tee hee) in just 6 more weeks…and I am longing for it now!

      Reply
    46. Marmar says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 10:24 pm

      Have you ever stayed at Callaway Gardens in Pine Mt Ga ?
      We love that place!!!

      Reply
    47. Ashley says:
      Mar 14, 2012 at 11:39 pm

      Oh Layla! I am about to blow your mind! I have the PERFECT location for your anniversary (my hubby and I had our 2nd here) and I bet you will be shocked you have not heard of it. Serenbe, GA! Its a planned “green” community. A designer from my town (Florence, AL) was their creative director and did all their crazy cool street signs, lightpoles, bike racks, etc… You can either stay at the Farm or the Lofts in “downtown”. There are a few fabulous restaurants to eat at in the town and you can travel to the real town a little away if you want more selection. Its only about 30 minutes Southwest of Atlanta. AMAZING! AMAZING! AMAZING! Have fun looking at all the cute homes! Oh and they usually have a few open on Sundays!

      http://www.serenbefarms.com/

      Best,
      Ashley

      Reply
    48. Lea says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 2:49 am

      I live about 30 minutes from Seaside. I love to go out there with my husband on his motorcycle and ride around. It is such a beautiful place.

      Reply
    49. Amy Blake says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 7:02 am

      We stayed at the Village Inn Bed and Breakfast in Stone Mountain Village one year for our anniversary. It was super quaint and had antiques galore. It’s within walking distance to the downtown area there at the village and it has several cute shops to browse. Check it out!

      Reply
    50. The Mrs @ Success Along the Weigh says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 7:24 am

      That town is lovely and I had no idea it wasn’t a set in the movie because it looked so perfect! That makes it appeal to me even more because we LOVE visiting towns where movies were shot. It’s a sickness really. I hope you find a great rental!

      Reply
    51. Jenna says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 7:32 am

      The Truman Show is one of my most favorite movies EVER. I totally didn’t realize it was filmed in Florida. That looks like such a quaint little community.

      Reply
    52. Krystle @ ColorTransformedFamily says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 7:55 am

      I love Seaside! I haven’t ever stayed there but I have stayed at one of the areas next to it so I still got to enjoy the shops and restaurants. Bed and Breakfast or cottages make the perfect getaway for anniversaries. Congratulations on your upcoming eighth.

      Reply
    53. Chelsea @LittleStitch says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 8:35 am

      Seaside (and anywhere along Hwy 30A) is a favorite of mine! My hubby and I are going with another couple for a long weekend in May. (Staying on Seagrove Beach, only a 1/2 mile walk to Seaside and MUCH cheaper.) And we’re going back in October for our 4-year anniversary with our furbabies, and hopefully staying at this pet-friendly cabin on Eastern Lake (only 3 miles to Seaside!): http://www.vrbo.com/252764#rates

      Enjoy! I hope you find the perfect getaway spot for your anniversary! :)

      Reply
    54. Kris says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 8:44 am

      Such a cute town! We happened upon it a few years ago while going from Panama City Beach to Destin. Stopped at the Pizza Bar on the way back and LOVED the food. We ate there twice that week. We never explored the town as we were there at night but now I must put this on our vacation to do list!

      Reply
    55. Amy Roemer says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 8:49 am

      We vacationed in Seaside in 2005. We loved walking/biking around looking at all the cottages. My favorite cottage name was “Julie Got Her Way”.

      Reply
    56. Rachel Carey says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 9:15 am

      Check out a little town in Germany called FUSSEN. I do believe that the neuschwanstein castle may have something to your liking!

      How would you redecorate it *lettered cottage* style? Hmmmmm

      Reply
      • Layla says:
        Mar 15, 2012 at 9:17 am

        Well, as much as I’d like to see that castle, my fear of flying will probably prevent me from ever seeing it- LOL! I’m a road trip girl all the way! :-D

        Reply
    57. Tammy Barnes says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 9:50 am

      Layla, Happy Anniversary (Kevin too!)

      I live about 45 minutes from Seaside, I think you should check it out for this year’s anni too, it’s probably only 4 hours or so from ATL. Have you been there since they’ve lined the main street with the Airstream Buses? Oh, so charming. Lunch at Bud & Alley’s Taco Stand cannot be beat!

      Reply
    58. Tammy Barnes says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 9:53 am

      Dang, I’m back for more Seaside promo. You know… you could always rent a bike with a basket for Mr. Max.

      The thing I forgot to say is this: Seaside… once you go, it becomes a part of your soul. You shouldn’t deny your soul the happiness that Seaside brings.

      Reply
    59. amanda says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 10:11 am

      Oh Seaside! I’ve been going with my family since I was kid and there were just a few little houses built. We went several times a year as a child and now we take our kids (maybe just one a year!). But we love it so. I always leave so inspired by the architecture and design and the gulf breezes. Just wonderful!

      Reply
    60. Sarah O says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 10:15 am

      Seaside looks amazing! It’s definitely on my list of places to visit now.

      Reply
    61. Lisa Mende Design says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 12:35 pm

      Lovely post! Makes me want to visit there. You were a breathtakingly beautiful bride!

      Reply
    62. jamie says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 12:55 pm

      one of my other favorite blogs {clover lane} has gone there for a few years with her family {five soon to be six kids}! it’s on my list of places to go!!

      Reply
    63. Chrissa says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 1:07 pm

      Hi Layla! Happy Anniversary!

      What about Tybee? I thought I read that you’ve stayed there before, but I think it’s pretty close to ATL. You’d likely know better than I. I think Jane Coslick has some places there for rent?

      Good luck!

      Reply
      • Layla says:
        Mar 15, 2012 at 1:49 pm

        Thank you, Chrissa! Yes- we LOVE Tybee (and Jane is a very good friend!), but we were thinking of mixin’ it up and going somewhere new this year! Still researching our options, but I have a couple promising ones in mind already! ;-)

        Reply
    64. Becky Neville says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 2:03 pm

      Congratulations! May this year bring you some of the best life has to offer! Including a cozy getaway! And loads of photographs to keep and enjoy!

      Reply
    65. Kary Ross says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 2:15 pm

      Layla,

      Here’s a cute little place for 1-2 adults that is only a bit down the 30-A strip from Seaside. It’s called 3 Mermaids and we have been here each year to enjoy the sand and surf! They list it thru VRBO.com and HomeAway.com too. And thru April 11 it’s only $140 a night.
      It’s designed the same as your honeymoon cottage too! The beach access is directly across the street. Perfect place and perfect for us! I think you and Kev would love it! Here’s a link to it:

      http://www.vrbo.com/19185.

      The owners are a lovely couple Charlie & Kendra. Give ‘em a call! Tell them Kary & Robert sent you!

      Blessings!

      Reply
      • Kary Ross says:
        Mar 15, 2012 at 2:18 pm

        It’s approximately 7 blocks from Seaside and I forgot to mention that they have bicycles and grilling facilities, a cool hammock to hang out in and last year they allowed folks staying there to use their swimming pool. Peace, Love & 3 Mermaids!! We leave July 4th for our visit this year! Yay!

        Reply
      • Layla says:
        Mar 15, 2012 at 3:49 pm

        Ooh! It’s lovely, Kary! Thank you so much for posting the link! :-D

        Reply
    66. Nick says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 2:22 pm

      We honeymooned there in 2006…but by default. We had planned on soaking up the sun in Cabo, but Hurricane Lane had other plans. And we’re glad he did! We stayed at WaterColor and spent every evening in Seaside. Fortunately, we’ve been back almost every year and just got to introduce our twins to our favorite beach spot! My favorite memory from our last trip was eating bbq from an Airstream and hanging out in/on/around the amphitheater.

      Anyhow, Seleta (a blogger friend of my cousin Andrea, Oakridgerevival.blogspot.com) has an incredible home in Seaside. I like to check out SimplySeleta.com for her shots from around town.

      Reply
      • Layla says:
        Mar 15, 2012 at 3:51 pm

        I loved reading your comment, Nick! We ate BBQ from that Airstream, too! :-D
        Off to check out Seleta’s blog!

        Reply
    67. Marsha says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 3:59 pm

      Happy Anniversary! I hope you have many more happy years together!
      I love Seaside also. I did two posts on it after a visit last year (one was on shopping and the other was on the awesome town). I included pictures of the Post Office and that way cool motel sign. I was happy to take way too many pictures of that sign.

      Hope you find a great place to celebrate!
      Marsha (in Prattville)

      Reply
    68. Erin @ His & Hers says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 4:40 pm

      I LOVE those first pictures of you. You two are so stinkin’ adorable. :)

      Reply
    69. Kim says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 5:18 pm

      Blue Ridge, Ga isn’t too far north of Atl, it’s a wonderful little twn in the mtns..

      Reply
    70. Maria @ All Things Luxurious says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 6:47 pm

      What an adorable little town! Now I know where my hubby and I will have to sneak off to next time we plan a little getaway! :-) Thanks so much for sharing!

      Reply
    71. Sharon Spiller says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 6:59 pm

      Layla, Have you ever tried Mentone, Alabama? There is an old hotel that has been converted to a bed and breakfast. I think it would be pretty close to Atlanta. I’ve been there on a day trip but have never stayed the night. It is one beautiful view on top of sand mountain. There’s also cabins at Mt. Cheaha. Happy Anniversary!

      Reply
    72. Cottage By The Sea says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 7:03 pm

      I got nothin for you in the South but if you ever wander over to So. Cal, keep my # handy because you guys have a standing invitation to stay at the cottage. I don’t even need any remodeling ideas, I’d just love to show you two around my cute little beach town. It’s the least I can do for the hours of entertainment your blog and videos have provided me.

      Reply
    73. Sharon Spiller says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 7:04 pm

      The hotel is called Mentone Springs Hotel and it is an historic hotel.

      Reply
    74. MimiG says:
      Mar 15, 2012 at 8:23 pm

      I’ve stayed at “Popsicle Cottage” a few times in Seaside. Love the atmosphere. Of course, Destin and Ft. Walton Bch are almost equally fabulous too!

      Reply
    75. Rebecca says:
      Mar 16, 2012 at 10:57 am

      I didn’t even know that such an amazing place existed! Thanks for sharing! :) Hope you enjoyed every minute of your trip!

      Reply
    76. Debbie says:
      Mar 16, 2012 at 12:42 pm

      Hi! Having grown up in Alabama and then returning to live here again 18 years ago, we go to the beach at least once a year. Seaside is great! We felt free to our daughters roam on their own. We have also stayed at Destiny by the Sea (Sun Palace is huge!) which is a gated community, Seagrove, all over Destin and Gulf Shores and lots of places in between. I polled our office – all are quite thrifty – Courtney says Rosemary Beach, Trey says Ellijay, GA, Brent couldn’t decide between Panama City, FL and Wind Creek on Lake Martin, Steve says a rental houseboat on Lake Martin or Lake Lanier and I say a bed and breakfast on Lookout Mountain, GA (or TN!) so we can eat at Rembrandt’s Cafe, The Yellow Deli and Aretha Frankenstein’s. But anywhere you go together is wonderful!

      Reply
    77. Kat says:
      Mar 16, 2012 at 12:43 pm

      haha- I grew up just a few hours away. We nicknamed Seaside especially “man hell’ because of all the pastels!

      Reply
    78. kathy says:
      Mar 16, 2012 at 6:19 pm

      Wow! It has been many many years since my husband and I took a trip up to to check out this new community called Seaside. What an inspiring place. I have already gotten lots of ideas for my on beach house from the pics you posted. Thanks, kathy

      Reply
    79. Marianne in Mo. says:
      Mar 16, 2012 at 7:27 pm

      Have to say, I wasn’t that impressed with Seaside when we stayed in Rosemary Beach a few years ago. I found it too gimmicky. Did love the homes there, and took a photo of the cute church that turned out rather nice! Rosemary was much more value for the $$ and less crowded. Granted, we were there in July, thanks to my SIL only being able to get leave from the A.F. then ( we went with all the kids and families ) but had the beach and the development pool mostly to ourselves. We had a 3 level home that slept 10 for a week @ under $2000!!!
      Happy Anniversary, and I know wherever you are it will be perfect!

      Reply
    80. Nana says:
      Mar 17, 2012 at 10:28 am

      Try Calloway Gardens, but don’t stay in the gardens. The Pine Mountain Chalets are much more affordable to rent, with biking and swimming a canoeing available.

      Reply
    81. Ashley says:
      Mar 18, 2012 at 6:33 pm

      I just drove thru Seaside today! We were camping with the family a little further west on 30A and couldn’t resist a quick drive by. How funny to see the pics on your blog when I got home this afternoon.

      Reply
    82. Mary Lynn Brackin says:
      Mar 18, 2012 at 9:23 pm

      Happy Anniversary to the two of you! I have enjoyed your blog so much and feel like I know you already. I have a cottage at Compass Lake, which is about 30 minutes from Panama City, off of 231. It is a very pretty lake and a restful place to stay. You are welcome to stay there for a few days if you would like. We don’t rent it out and would love for you to use it for free. I think it would be your style~it is decorated in the cottage style with lots of slipcovers and painted furniture. If you are interested let me know and I can send you some pictures.

      Reply
    83. Jenny B. says:
      Mar 19, 2012 at 4:37 pm

      I’ve seen that bedroom with the nook on Pinterest a ton! Cool to know where it really is! :) I haven’t seen an ocean in over 15 years. :(

      Reply
    84. Julie W says:
      Mar 20, 2012 at 10:01 am

      Lake Lanier is beautiful. Also Fort Mountain is gorgeous and I found this place but it says no pets but pet accommodations available nearby?http://www.thehearthstonelodge.com/
      I am from Rome, Georgia so I have to recommend that, it has a wonderful downtown. Red Top Mountain and Lake Allatoona might be good places to look also. Just an hour and a half/two hours from Atlanta is the Clayton and Dillard area which are also wonderful.. You can sort by pet friendly on this website for Lake Hartwell http://www.mtnlakes.com/ Just a few ideas for you=)

      Reply
    85. emmeline says:
      Mar 23, 2012 at 1:19 pm

      you should check out the serenbe community — it’s close to Atlanta, but a neat place!

      http://www.serenbeinn.com/

      Reply
    86. Jenny M says:
      Mar 23, 2012 at 10:40 pm

      We just bought a cute little cottage near Gulf Shores, AL. We LOVE the Fort Morgan area and would love to have you visit!!

      Reply
    87. Lauren says:
      Mar 24, 2012 at 2:42 pm

      We just got married in January in Fort Morgan, AL, and we were able to take our dogs & have a very quiet section of the beach. It’s far away from public access beaches, so it was a hidden jewel. I’d check out VRBO for little rentals in that area…we stayed at the Enchanted Dunes but had 20 people with us, so you probably won’t need that much space!

      Reply
    88. Susan says:
      Mar 28, 2012 at 5:38 pm

      Unless I win the lottery, I will never be able to afford to live in Seaside, but I console myself with the fact that I can visit it every year on the way to stay at my mother-in-law’s winter place north of Orlando.

      I had the chance to visit again a couple of weeks ago during Spring break, and it was more crowded than I’ve ever seen it – I think I prefer visiting in November, when it seems to be a lot quieter.

      Good luck with finding a nice place for your anniversary.

      First time commenter on your blog. :)

      Reply

    89. Pingback: 5 Great Neutral Paint Colors for Kitchen Cabinets | HomeandEventStyling.com