South Walton Came to Nashville, and It Was a Vibe! (Meeting Planners, You've Got to Read This!)
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On a warm Wednesday evening in late April, Nashville's event-planning community slipped into the plush, rose-hued world of White Limozeen — The Graduate Hotel's famously flamboyant rooftop restaurant and bar.
While the city bustled below, the real escape was indoors, where velvet banquettes, ornate chandeliers, and Dolly Parton-inspired decor set the stage for a different kind of pitch: an invitation to discover South Walton, Florida, as the next go-to destination for meetings and events.
StyleBlueprint sponsored this event, and we learned so much. Here's the scoop!
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The event took place indoors, but the rooftop's signature kitsch and charm provided the perfect backdrop for casual mingling. Roughly 40 local event planners were welcomed into the vibrant pink space, which was buzzing with conversation, curated bites, and Southern hospitality — an atmosphere that mirrored the very experience South Walton hopes to offer potential visitors and clients alike.
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The conversations felt easy and organic, with a few brief remarks shared from a casually arranged stage area. The vibe stayed warm and low-key, inviting planners to envision their own events unfolding along Florida's scenic Gulf Coast. Whether imagining an intimate family gathering or a large-scale conference, it was easy to see the potential. And, with so many direct flights now coming into the two nearby airports, South Walton is accessible, which is a major advantage in the world of event planning.
'We have 26 miles of coastline,' Karen Morris, Walton County Tourism's Director of Sales, explained, 'and some of the neighborhoods in our destination that you might recognize include Seaside, Sandestin, WaterColor, Rosemary Beach, and Santa Rosa Beach.' It's clear that each community offers its own distinct flavor, from quaint, walkable town centers to luxurious beachfront enclaves.
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What sets South Walton apart for event planners is the diversity of its venues and accommodations. 'We offer a wide variety of accommodations for meeting planners, so it's really a great setup,' Karen said. 'We have everything from boutique hotels and beach rentals along 30A — perfect for board retreats and high-end incentives — all the way to full-service resorts with ample meeting space for conferences and conventions.'
The message resonated in a big way, particularly since so many planners create events year-round and are constantly on the lookout for locations that offer both function and flair.
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One of the evening's most memorable elements was the appearance of artist Sarah Page, Walton County's 2024–2025 Artist of the Year. Known for her large-scale murals, Sarah brought a few of her smaller pieces to display during the event. Her presence underscored one of South Walton's most compelling selling points beyond the surf and sand: its thriving creative scene.
From open-air galleries and coastal murals to artist residencies and cultural festivals, South Walton's commitment to the arts offers planners an opportunity to infuse creativity and authenticity into their events.
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By the end of the evening, guests had not only tasted the flavors of South Walton but also its spirit — unpretentious luxury, artistic soul, and natural beauty rolled into one.
The gathering at White Limozeen planted a seed: somewhere between the sugar-white sands and the turquoise waters of the Florida Panhandle, a new kind of event experience awaits. One where planners can trade ballrooms for breezy verandas, and crowded downtowns for curated coastal charm.
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Find out more about planning upcoming events — from small business retreats to 1,500-person conferences — at the Visit South Walton website.
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Find more fantastic Southern destinations in our Travel archives!
About the Author Jenna Bratcher
Jenna Bratcher is StyleBlueprint Nashville's Associate Editor and Lead Writer. The East Coast native moved to Nashville 17 years ago, by way of Los Angeles. She is a lover of dogs, strong coffee, traveling, and exploring the local restaurant scene bite by bite.
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