Jessica Shafer has a talent for creating paradise, and homeowners across Northeast Florida turn to her team at Florida Coastal Contractors and their subsidiary, Island Breeze Luxury Pools, to transform their backyards into private retreats. As a woman-owned, family-run business, Florida Coastal Contractors’ reputation is built on craftsmanship, innovation, and a deep connection to its clients. Leading the charge is Jessica, a visionary in construction known for her creative solutions, precision, and deep commitment to customer satisfaction. While the construction industry has long been male-dominated, Jessica has carved out a space as an owner and a leader who drives operations and client relations. “I love creating things and seeing the final outcome from conception to the final design,” she says. With a family background defined by teamwork and rooted in craftsmanship, and attention to detail–her family operated Nordin Boats, a custom boat construction company–Jessica was destined to design and create. Now, she ensures that every project is carefully planned and executed to enhance how families live and entertain in their outdoor spaces. Jessica’s husband, Shane, leads the design efforts and is the Vice President of Sales. While his roots in construction reach back to 1990, it was in ’94 that he struck out on his own, founding First Coast Rain Guard, a company he later sold in 2002 for $2.2 million. He was 29 years old at the time. Following this success, Shane adopted the habit of surrounding himself with people he considered smarter than himself, and learned to invest in residential and commercial real estate. After honoring a 5-year non-compete, The Shafers were more than ready to get back to doing what they love best–bringing their clients’ most opulent backyard dreams into reality through a boutique outdoor construction service.
“We enjoy the engagement, the smiles on people’s faces from the transformation,” Shane shares. “These are big projects, adding a room addition or a lanai expansion, a swimming pool, or an outdoor kitchen. The joy makes it worth every dollar” Shane emphasizes, “It’s all about education, design and trust. Creating these spaces is about innovation. Jessica and I have a gift for highlighting design aspects that clients might not even consider, ensuring that every space is uniquely crafted and custom tailored to the families who will enjoy it for years to come.” By removing obstructions like unsightly pillars and cumbersome floor plans and finding innovative solutions, homeowners can get the most out of their outdoor landscape. Each backyard area is designed purposefully, ensuring functionality and aesthetic appeal. Along with custom-designed pools, their custom fireplaces and outdoor kitchens tailored to the homeowner’s personal cooking style exemplify how Florida Coastal transforms ideas into reality. Whether a client prefers grilling, slow cooking, or a fully equipped chef’s station, every feature is customized to match their lifestyle. This level of personalization ensures that the backyard is not just an addition to the home but an integral part of everyday living. Enhancing a home’s exterior and interior adds value to the life lived there and raises the value of the property. These projects enhance a home’s market appeal while creating spaces where families gather, celebrate, and unwind. Taking on such a major project can be daunting. Florida Coastal Contractors simplifies the process with a boutique, client-focused approach, getting to know every client they work with. This ensures the project is a true reflection of the client’s personality. Overseeing a team of specialized artisans, Shane and Jessica ensure that every project stage, from initial planning to final details, is executed precisely. As the primary point of contact, she streamlines communication and helps clients navigate the construction process clearly. While any home renovation involves disruptions, Jessica’s approach keeps the experience as smooth as possible, delivering exceptional results that enhance daily life.
With Jessica at the helm, the company continues to grow, offering a comprehensive approach to redefining outdoor living. Whether it’s a minor upgrade or an extensive remodel, she and her team are committed to delivering superior craftsmanship, focusing proudly on using products made in America.
The Shafers’ goal is not just to build structures but to create places where families gather, unwind, and reconnect. Picture a quiet morning coffee by the firepit, a cocktail by the pool on a summer afternoon, or a dinner shared under the stars. Their award-winning design spaces bring people outside to enjoy life the way they dream of, with the people they love the most. This dedication to quality extends to their family, as their children have grown up in the business and now play key roles in its success. three of their four sons, Kris, Devan, and Jacob work in the company. Kris and Jacob work masterfully with custom carpentry solutions, Devan, reffered affectionately as the “White Glove” of the company, handles client management. With a team that feels more like family and a reputation built on trust, they continue to set the standard for excellence in home transformation.
FLORIDA COASTAL CONTRACTORS
3501 North Ponce De Leon Blvd #374
St. Augustine, FL
(904) 827-3962
www.dreambackyardbuilders.com
