From Small-Town Roots to 30A: Trusting the Call and Finding Community
Hello everyone! My name is Kensley, and I’m the Marketing Director at Live 30A. I’m usually the face behind many of the blogs you see here, but today is a little different—and extra special.
We’re excited to launch a brand-new Agent Guest Blog Series, where our agents will have the opportunity to share their hearts, experiences, advice, favorite things to do around 30A, what they love most about living here, or simply whatever they feel called to write about. Each blog will be personal, authentic, and uniquely theirs!
So—welcome to the very first one.
This series is all about connection, community, and storytelling, and I couldn’t think of a better way to kick it off than by sharing a piece of my own journey—one that brought me from a small town in western Kentucky to the beautiful beaches of 30A, trusting the Lord every step of the way.
Graduating college and moving to a completely different state where you don’t know a single person can feel overwhelming—exciting, but also terrifying. I was born and raised in a small town in western Kentucky, where everyone knows everyone and community is built in. So when I packed up my life and moved to Florida right after college, I had no idea what the Lord had in store for me.
I didn’t move because it was easy. I didn’t move because I had it all figured out. I moved because I felt called—and when the Lord calls you, you listen and go. That doesn’t mean it’s always comfortable, and it definitely doesn’t mean you won’t have moments of doubt. But what I do know is this: the Lord always provides.
When I first arrived in Florida, I knew one thing for sure—I needed community. So I jumped in the best way I knew how. The very first place I went was church. It took a few visits and trying out different places before I found the right fit, but eventually I did. From there, I joined Bible studies, met with women who poured into me, prayed with me, and walked alongside me during a season of major transition.
I also tried stepping outside my comfort zone in other ways. I signed up for a local kickball team… and quickly realized that wasn’t quite the crowd I was looking for. But even that experience taught me something—sometimes you have to try things just to learn what isn’t for you.
One of the most impactful decisions I made was getting involved as a leader with Young Life South Walton. Pouring into young girls and being present in their lives has been one of the biggest blessings of my time here. It grounded me and gave me a sense of purpose beyond myself.
And yes—I even slid into DMs. I would message local girls on Instagram, introduce myself, and ask if they wanted to grab coffee or go for a walk. Was it intimidating? Absolutely. But what I quickly realized is that everyone is looking for connection. Not one person told me they already had enough friends or didn’t want to meet up. Being new actually opened doors I didn’t expect.
Making friends in a new city can feel scary, but the truth is—you’re not alone in that feeling. Connection, especially as a young person, is powerful and life-giving.
Right before I moved, my mom said to me, “What if you meet the man of your dreams?”And sure enough… that’s exactly what the Lord had planned. A reminder that God’s plans are always bigger—and sweeter—than we can imagine.
If I could give one piece of advice to a young, single person moving to a new city where you don’t know anyone, it would be this: Be bold in putting yourself out there, love people well, get involved wherever you can, and trust the Lord with your whole heart. Say yes to church groups, Bible studies, fitness classes, volunteering, community events, and even casual coffee dates with people you barely know. Show up consistently, even when it feels uncomfortable. The Lord uses obedience, not perfection, and He will meet you in every step.
And if you’re moving to 30A—or already live here and are just looking to make friends—call or text me. Let’s meet. I’d love to be part of your story too.
My Favorite Spots Along 30A!
☕ Favorite Coffee Shops
🍳 Favorite Breakfast Spots
🥐 Favorite Brunch
🥪 Favorite Lunch Spots
- South of Philly
- Seagrove Village Market
Go on Tuesdays for the $10 chicken tacos 🌮 - The Great Southern Cafe
Caesar salad with grilled chicken = undefeated - Chanticleer Eatery
Pick 2: tomato basil soup + club sandwich (no bacon!)
🍽️ Favorite Dinner Spots
- Oku– Their Firecracker Roll and Ube Ice Cream is to die for!!
- Cafe Thirty-A– MUST get their Tuna steak!
- The Bay
🏖️ Favorite Beach Access
💪 Favorite Workout Spots
- Pure Barre Watercolor
- 30A Power Yoga
Heated Pilates 🔥