Three weeks later, I’m headed to the Gulf Coast, a million questions swirling in my mind about the viral blue-and-yellow 30A sticker and the man behind it.

When I could get involved, I absolutely did get involved.” More than 400 stores nationwide carry 30A merchandise, and 30A bumper stickers unite drivers everywhere.

In all, according to The 30A Company, a local lifestyle brand company that offers an array of beach-related merchandise, an estimated 3 million 30A stickers have been distributed.

This area has long been a beloved vacation spot for Southerners who drive each summer to swim in clear turquoise waters, play in powder-white sand and then slap a 30A bumper sticker on their cars.