March 11, 2025

Behind the Brand

By Lisa Axelson
Behind the Brand

Hello! My name is Lisa, I am the founder and creative director of Linen and Sand. Welcome to our first blog! I wanted to take this opportunity to introduce myself and share a bit about my journey and Linen and Sand.

My journey proves that the most fulfilling paths sometimes lead us back to life’s simple joys. Through Linen and Sand, I have created more than just a store. I have built a haven where vision, craftsmanship, community, and the beauty of slow living come together.

For years, I thrived in the fast-paced world of high fashion in New York City, working for renowned brands and designers. The city’s energy was exhilarating. The work was demanding. The opportunities were endless, and I was living my dream. Yet, amid this dream career, my musician husband and I began to long for something different for our family. We wanted a life where time slowed down. Where we could enjoy simple, everyday pleasures with our kids. We wanted to spend days dictated by the rhythm of the waves, not my corporate calendar. We wanted to experience the beauty found in everyday moments.

I discovered 30A while flipping through a design magazine featuring a gorgeous beach house overlooking the most beautiful beach. It stopped me in my tracks.  We were smitten within our first 12 hours of being on 30A.  The area spoke to us.  It embodied everything we had been quietly craving. The idea of trading city skylines for sun-drenched shores lingered. It became a vision for a new chapter.

Leaving behind a successful career in fashion was not a decision I took lightly. But with each passing season, I felt a growing desire to create on my own terms. I wanted to build something that reflected my evolving perspective on beauty and respect for artisan craftsmanship. That desire materialized into Linen & Sand, a lifestyle shop embodying slow, thoughtful design. Nestled in Seagrove Beach, the store is a curated space where every item tells a story. Quality takes precedence over quantity. Shoppers are invited to embrace the art of living well.

Linen & Sand is more than just a retail space. It reflects my journey and philosophy. My fashion background translates into curating a collection that celebrates authenticity and timeless style. The store is a treasure trove of beautiful yet functional pieces designed to elevate everyday living. Luxurious hand-loomed linens and delicate glassware invite customers to create sophisticated and lived-in spaces. A selection of elegant jewelry, stylish bags, and artisanal accessories offers effortless ways to add refined touches to any wardrobe.

What sets Linen & Sand apart is its commitment to supporting small-batch makers and artisans worldwide. I believe in the importance of knowing the origins of the products we bring into our lives. Each item in the store carries the story of the skilled hands that crafted it. It upholds traditions and is infused with care. Rather than mass-produced goods, Linen & Sand celebrates the unique beauty of handmade pieces, pieces that are crafted with heart and soul. A hand-thrown ceramic mug may bear the subtle marks of the potter’s hands. A woven throw may have slight variations in pattern. A piece of jewelry may carry the distinct touch of its maker. Each is a reminder of human artistry.

Linen & Sand is not just a business for my family and me. It embodies the life we envisioned when we set our sights on 30A. The transition from city life to the serene coastal town of Santa Rosa Beach was more than just a change in scenery—it was a shift in mindset. Instead of rushing from one obligation to the next, we now embrace the unhurried pace of beachside living. Mornings are spent sipping coffee on our porch. Afternoons are filled with long walks along the shore and spending quality time with our kids. Evenings bring the simple joy of gathering with loved ones for a home-cooked meal and time to catch up.

Through Linen & Sand, I hope to share this philosophy. I want to inspire customers to create spaces and lifestyles that prioritize meaning over excess, quality over quantity, and beauty in the everyday. I want to help you live the life you love with style and ease.