MATLACHA, Fla. — When Brian and Diana Stockbridge bought Gulf Coast Kayak during the Great Recession, they knew they were taking a risk.
But sometimes, the rewards are worth the risk.
They both left their traditional jobs and moved from Virginia - along with their school age son - to beautiful Southwest Florida.
They jumped head first into running - and expanding - the business which is nestled on the quaint Lee county island community of Matlacha.
The rewards have been evident every step of the way.
Gulf Coast Kayak has received rave reviews from everyone - from its customers to the charities it supports with special events.
Now, this eco-friendly business is finding news ways to promote a healthy way to stay in shape - paddling - while also biding by the public health guidelines that go along with the pandemic.
