The Lawn is open for business

Innovative landowners expand wedding options in South Walton

By Deborah Wheeler

debbie_wheeler@link.freedom.com

With wedding season looming on the horizon brides have a new option when planning a destination wedding in South Walton.

While most folks with beach-front lots build on them to the max, one South Walton family has found a different use for theirs.

Rep and Karen Bennett own eight rental homes in South Walton. Two of those connect to the vacant lot, located two miles east of Seaside. When someone suggested the lot with its view would make a nice place for a wedding, the Bennetts agreed.

The couple cleared and landscaped the 60x110 parcel, put down sod, added natural vegetation and planted palm trees, which now glow with lights. All that needs to be added is the party.

The Bennetts have helped with that also. Visitors to their Web site are provided with referrals to caterers, musicians, florists, officiants, photographers, videographers and wedding coordinators.

"I had no idea the wedding business was such big business here until we built ‘The Lawn,'" said Karen. "It's huge, so, I'm learning the wedding business."

The Lawn has already seen its first wedding since opening April 1 and more are scheduled.

The Bennetts also believe the property would be a good site for family reunions, corporate outings and other large events.

The owners recently held a lawn party to celebrate The Lawn's grand opening and introduce it to the community. Many of the guests weren't aware of its existence since it is hidden from street view.

The Bennetts also opened the two adjacent beach houses for tours, which must be rented to use The Lawn. One is a 10 bedroom and the other is a six bedroom. Both have gulf views and swimming pools.

"Wedding coordinators expressed excitement about having a new location for weddings and receptions," said Karen.

The Bennetts and their two children moved to South Walton five years ago after vacationing here for many years. Rep is a retired dentist.

"On our last vacation here, we didn't want to leave. So, Rep retired and we moved to beach. This is a family oriented place and we wanted out kids to be raised here. So, now we just manage our properties," said Karen.

For more information on The Lawn visit www.Pearlywhiteproperties.com or call (866) 294-5833.