Decking the Halls with The Seaside Style

By Jordan Staggs | Photography by Daniel Meigs

Step into the enchanting Wesley House this holiday season at Eden Gardens State Park in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. The magic of Christmas is magnified by the extraordinary collaboration between the historic gem and gracious community volunteers, including the stylish and creative team from The Seaside Style. Nestled in the heart of Walton County, the Wesley House invites visitors to journey through time as they take in the splendor of a bygone era while touring the late-1800s mansion adorned with antique furniture.

Guided tours provide a year-round glimpse into this meticulously preserved residence’s rich story and cultural significance, but the arrival of the holiday season heralds a captivating transformation. Community members, including the Friends of Eden Gardens, gather to decorate the home with festive cheer. This year’s theme is “Victorian Christmas,” promising a nostalgic and heartwarming experience.

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Members of The Seaside Style team (bottom to top): Erica Pierce, Kendall Andrews, Makenzie Carter, Shonda Trantina, Madison Spence, Kandice Kelly, and Kaycee Weldon

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The kids’ room at the Wesley House

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The enchantment began on November 14 when a dedicated team, including volunteers, local garden clubs, talented decorators, and the creative minds from The Seaside Style, gathered to infuse the Wesley House with holiday cheer. Makenzie Carter, chief creative officer of The Seaside Style, says, “SEASIDE® and The Seaside Style are honored to be part of Eden Gardens’ Christmas at the Wesley House. It was so fun to be invited to add holiday decor to this historic home and be part of a local tradition.” The team, including members from The Seaside Style and Seaside Kids store, brought grandeur to the entryway, where garlands gracefully drape down the banisters, and the kids’ bedroom, which received a playful touch of holiday decor with themed ribbons and the warmth of a Christmas tree.

Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, mark your calendar for a visit to the Wesley House and witness firsthand the magic of this historic holiday haven.

The mansion’s Victorian Christmas public tours continue through January 9, 2024. Those touring the home are also encouraged to engage in a friendly competition by voting for their favorite decorated room.

A pinnacle of the holiday season at Eden Gardens State Park is the Christmas Candlelight Open House and Luminaries event on December 9, 2023, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The park will be adorned with twinkling candles and festive lights, inviting guests to explore the grounds and beautifully decorated rooms of the Wesley House. Refreshments, complimentary park entry, and a shuttle service will create an unforgettable holiday experience curated by the Friends of Eden Gardens. This event, now featuring The Seaside Style’s creative touch, has become a beloved tradition for the Walton County community and beyond.

Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, mark your calendar for a visit to the Wesley House and witness firsthand the magic of this historic holiday haven. Experience the past, embrace the beauty of the present, and bask in the warmth of the season through the creative contributions of a united community.

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Tickets for Wesley House daily tours can be purchased at the home upon arrival. The Christmas Candlelight Open House and Luminaries event is free of charge on December 9, 2023. Learn more about events and news at FriendsofEdenGardens.com. Visit TheSeasideStyle.com to learn more or shop your favorite SEASIDE® merch for the holidays!