We were so grateful to have the opportunity to go behind the scenes and see the incredible transformation taking place at the Centre. What we saw was more than a construction project. It was a glimpse into the future of creativity, learning, art and community on Prince Edward Island.

A $65-Million Transformation

The Confederation Centre of the Arts is undergoing a $65-million revitalization—the largest transformation in the Centre’s 60-year history.

Walking through the construction site gave us a whole new appreciation for the scale of what is being created. From the unfinished spaces and exposed infrastructure to the plans showing what these areas will eventually become, it was exciting to imagine the finished Centre.

There is something special about seeing a place before it is complete. You get to see the hard work, the vision and all the little details that will eventually come together to create something beautiful.

And knowing that this project will provide even more opportunities for creativity, education, connection and Canadian culture makes it even more meaningful for our Island community.

A Family Legacy That Will Live On

For our family, however, this revitalization is especially close to our hearts.

One of the most meaningful parts of the project is the Michael S. Schurman Family Studio, which will carry Dad’s name forward.

My mom and sisters made this beautiful donation in his memory, helping create a space where children, families and artists will have the opportunity to explore their creativity, learn new things and simply enjoy the arts.

Standing inside the space and seeing the plans for what it will become was an emotional moment for all of us.

It is difficult to put into words what it means to know that Dad’s name will be part of a place where future generations will create, discover and be inspired.

Dad would be so incredibly proud. 🤍

Seeing the Vision Come to Life

Our behind-the-scenes tour gave us the chance to see areas that most visitors would never normally get to see.

We walked through spaces that are currently filled with construction materials, equipment and unfinished walls, while holding the plans and images that show the beautiful spaces they are destined to become.

It was almost like looking at the Centre’s past, present and future all at once.

And, of course, we couldn’t resist putting on our hard hats and getting into the spirit of the tour! From exploring the construction site to taking photos together, it was such a memorable experience.

We were also lucky enough to enjoy the views from above and see Charlottetown from a completely different perspective.

Something Special Is Coming to PEI

Projects like this are about so much more than buildings.

They create spaces where people can gather, children can discover their creativity, artists can share their work and families can make memories together.

For us, this project also represents something deeply personal—a way to honour Dad while creating something that will continue to inspire others for years to come.

We left the tour feeling incredibly grateful and excited to see the transformation continue.

We can’t wait to come back and see the Michael S. Schurman Family Studio and the rest of the revitalized Confederation Centre of the Arts once everything is complete.

Fall 2026 can’t come soon enough!

Until then, we’ll treasure being able to say that we got a little behind-the-scenes glimpse of what is to come. ❤️

Follow along as this incredible chapter unfolds for Confederation Centre of the Arts and for PEI. @confedcentre

The post A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Transformation of Confederation Centre of the Arts appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

🐮 Welcome to Cows!

From the moment we arrived, Cows Creamery was impossible to miss. The fun cow-themed signs, colorful details, and the iconic cow on the roof immediately put us in a happy vacation mood. 😍

Of course, we had to take plenty of photos! From posing beside the giant cow to capturing our colorful ice cream cones, every corner seemed to have the perfect photo opportunity.

Ice Cream First… Everything Else Later!

And then came the most important part – the ice cream! 😂

We each picked our flavors and enjoyed our cones while soaking up the beautiful Prince Edward Island scenery. There’s just something extra special about eating ice cream while traveling, especially when you’re surrounded by friends and sunshine.

And yes… we had to document every single scoop! 📸🍨

Memories With the Girls

What made the experience even more fun was sharing it with friends. We laughed, took photos, explored the creamery, and enjoyed the little moments together.

The colorful Cows Canada mural inside was another favorite photo spot. Standing beside the giant cow made us feel like kids again!

More Than Just Ice Cream

One thing we didn’t expect was how much more there was to discover inside. Cows Creamery also has a selection of cheese, butter, and other local products, making it a fun stop for anyone who wants to bring a little taste of PEI home.

We couldn’t resist browsing the shelves and checking out all the delicious-looking goodies.

A Must-Visit in PEI

Our Cows Creamery experience was more than just grabbing ice cream… it was a fun, colorful, and delicious part of our Prince Edward Island adventure.

If you’re visiting PEI, add Cows Creamery to your itinerary! Come for the famous ice cream, stay for the fun atmosphere, take lots of photos, and maybe bring home some cheese or butter, too. 🐮🍦

Good friends + beautiful PEI weather + delicious ice cream = a perfect travel memory!

The post Our Sweet Cows Creamery Experience in Prince Edward Island 🐄🍦 appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

On a beautiful Saturday morning at 8:00 AM, we joined a yoga class led by Candice, one of the incredible instructors from Spinco Victoria. From the moment the class began, her calming voice set the tone for the morning. She created the perfect balance between relaxation and movement—it felt peaceful and grounding while still giving us a great workout.

What made it even more memorable was the setting. We were practicing yoga high above the forest at Malahat SkyWalk, surrounded by breathtaking views of Southern Vancouver Island. As the morning sun rose over the mountains and ocean, we stretched, breathed, and moved through our practice while feeling completely immersed in nature.

 

Why Malahat SkyWalk Is So Special

If you haven’t visited yet, Malahat SkyWalk is one of Vancouver Island’s most unique attractions. Located just north of Victoria, the experience begins with a beautiful elevated boardwalk winding through the treetops before leading to a stunning spiral tower that rises nearly 250 meters above sea level.

The Malahat Skywalk Spiral Tower (Victoria, BC)

From the top, you’re treated to panoramic views of:

• Finlayson Arm
• Saanich Peninsula
• Mount Baker
• The Gulf Islands
• Dense West Coast forests stretching as far as the eye can see

Being up there before the crowds arrived felt magical. We were practically the only ones on the SkyWalk, making the experience even more peaceful and intimate. There was something surreal about practicing yoga in the sky while taking in some of the most beautiful views on Vancouver Island.

A Little Diet Coke Moment

The morning was made even sweeter thanks to Lisa, who surprised us with matching Diet Coke hats she picked up during a recent trip to Scottsdale, Arizona. If you know us, you know our love for a little Diet Coke moment, so naturally we wore them proudly and snapped plenty of photos.

The matching hats quickly became the unofficial accessory of the day and added a fun touch to an already memorable morning.

Lunch with a View at The Eyrie Resort

After yoga, we headed to The Eyrie Resort for a scenic lunch overlooking the mountains and ocean.

The views were absolutely spectacular. Sitting by the windows, enjoying fresh food and good conversation after a morning of movement, felt like the perfect way to slow down and soak in the beauty of Vancouver Island.

My meal was packed with fresh greens, avocado toast, perfectly poached eggs, and vibrant vegetables—a nourishing choice after yoga. Between the incredible food, stunning scenery, and wonderful company, it was one of those afternoons you wish could last a little longer.

A Perfect Vancouver Island Morning

This experience was such a wonderful reminder of how important it is to make time for movement, friendship, and being outdoors.

Yoga in the sky, breathtaking views, matching Diet Coke hats, and lunch at The Eyrie Resort—it truly was one of those picture-perfect Vancouver Island mornings that fills your cup in every way.

If you ever have the opportunity to attend a special event at Malahat SkyWalk, don’t hesitate. Whether you’re there for yoga, a walk among the treetops, or simply to take in the views, it’s an experience that leaves you feeling refreshed, inspired, and connected to the beauty around you. ✨

Location: Malahat SkyWalk, Vancouver Island, British Columbia
After-Yoga Lunch: The Eyrie Resort at Malahat Summit
Instructor: Candice from Spinco Victoria
Vibe: Peaceful, energizing, scenic, and unforgettable. 💙

The post Yoga in the Sky at Malahat SkyWalk appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

They become memories. They become places, seasons, family traditions and little pieces of home that stay with us no matter where life takes us.

For me, COWS is one of those things.

So when I started thinking about how I wanted to celebrate my 55th birthday, I knew I wanted something fun, nostalgic and meaningful.

And I chose a theme that might seem a little unexpected.

COWS. 🐄

But if you know Prince Edward Island, you probably understand.

COWS isn’t just ice cream. It’s part of the Island experience.

It’s Cavendish. It’s summer. It’s waffle cones. It’s family outings. It’s that feeling of walking around PEI on a beautiful summer day with a scoop of ice cream in your hand.

For me, COWS is also a little taste of home.

Why COWS Felt Perfect for My 55th Birthday

Turning 55 naturally made me think about memories.

The older we get, the more we realize that some of the most meaningful things aren’t necessarily the biggest or most expensive moments.

Sometimes it’s a smell.

A song.

A familiar place.

Or a taste that takes you right back to another time.

For me, COWS brings back that feeling of being on Prince Edward Island.

It reminds me of summers, Cavendish and all those little moments that make PEI special.

So instead of choosing a traditional birthday theme, I wanted to celebrate 55 with something that represented fun, home and nostalgia.

COWS felt absolutely perfect.

And the more I learned about the company, the more I realized there was so much more to COWS than the ice cream cone we all know and love.

From One Little Shop in Cavendish to a PEI Icon

COWS began in 1983 in Cavendish, Prince Edward Island, using an old fashioned family ice cream recipe.

The idea was simple.

Make really good ice cream.

Rather than chasing the cheapest or fastest way to produce it, COWS focused on rich ingredients, traditional methods and creating something genuinely indulgent.

What started as a little ice cream shop eventually became one of the most recognizable brands associated with Prince Edward Island.

And that Island connection is still a huge part of what makes COWS special.

So Why Does COWS Ice Cream Taste So Good? 🍦

Let’s talk about the ice cream.

Because honestly, this is where COWS really shines.

COWS says its ice cream is made with 100% Prince Edward Island milk, fresh cream and real eggs. It contains 16% butterfat, and its traditional recipe is churned slowly with limited air incorporated into the mixture.

You can taste the difference.

COWS ice cream doesn’t have that light, airy texture you sometimes get from mass market ice cream.

It’s dense, silky, rich and incredibly creamy.

Then there are the flavours.

COWS is known for loading its flavours with things you can actually see and taste. Think English toffee, chocolate flakes, caramel, cheesecake pieces, fruit and other delicious additions.

It’s not shy ice cream.

It’s the kind of ice cream that makes you stop talking for a minute because you’re too busy enjoying it.

And Then There’s the Butter 🧈

I have to talk about the butter.

Because if you’ve ever spread COWS salted butter over warm bread and thought, “Why does this taste so much better?”, you’re not imagining it.

COWS Creamery makes butter using PEI milk, continuing the same commitment to quality that runs through the rest of the brand.

There is something wonderful about really good butter.

Put it on warm bread.

Add a little salt.

That’s it.

Sometimes the simplest foods are the ones where quality matters most.

COWS Cheese Might Be the Hidden Star 🧀

Now we get to a part of the COWS story that I think many people don’t know about.

The cheese.

COWS expanded into cheese making in the 2000s, and one of its most famous cheeses is Avonlea Clothbound Cheddar.

The inspiration came from traditional cheddar making in the Orkney Islands of Scotland.

Avonlea is made in the traditional clothbound style and aged to develop its flavour and character.

Instead of a mild, ordinary cheddar, you get something much more complex.

It’s firm, nutty, tangy and full of flavour.

And I love that this part of the story still connects back to PEI.

The milk, the Island, the craftsmanship and the traditional approach all come together in one beautiful piece of cheese.

The COWS T-Shirts Were an Unexpected Success

And then there’s the part of the COWS story that has nothing to do with dairy—and somehow became just as iconic.

The cow T-shirts. 🐄

In the 1980s, COWS employees began wearing cow-themed shirts. Tourists started asking if they could buy them, and in 1987, PEI graphic artist Marc Gallant created the whimsical cow designs that became a huge part of the brand’s identity.

What started as something fun for employees became an entire merchandise phenomenon.

That’s very COWS.

They’ve always managed to combine really good food with a sense of humour.

So Why Does COWS Taste So Different?

I think it comes down to a few things:

PEI milk.
COWS says PEI milk is the only milk it uses for its ice cream.

High butterfat.
That 16% butterfat level contributes to the rich, creamy texture.

Less air.
The ice cream is churned slowly with limited air incorporated, giving it that wonderfully dense consistency.

Traditional methods.
Rather than chasing the cheapest or fastest production method, COWS has held onto the old-fashioned character of its original recipe.

Real ingredients.
Fresh cream, real eggs and substantial mix-ins make the flavours feel indulgent and satisfying.

Put all of that together and you get something that tastes very different from ordinary mass-market ice cream.

But I Think There’s Another Ingredient: Memory ❤️

And this might be the biggest one for me.

COWS isn’t just ice cream.

It’s PEI summers.

It’s Cavendish.

It’s walking around with a melting waffle cone in your hand.

It’s the smell of fresh waffle cones.

It’s a beach day followed by ice cream.

It’s Charlottetown.

It’s family vacations.

It’s Anne of Green Gables country.

It’s that feeling you get when something tastes exactly like a place you love.

COWS has become so closely connected to the Prince Edward Island experience that visiting one of its Island locations feels like part of the vacation itself. COWS currently lists locations in places including Cavendish and Charlottetown, as well as several other Canadian cities.

And if you grew up on PEI, I think that connection goes even deeper.

A tourist might taste really good ice cream.

But someone with PEI memories tastes summer.

The COWS Formula

Maybe that’s why I keep coming back to this simple idea:

PEI milk + quality ingredients + higher butterfat + traditional methods + a little Island nostalgia = ridiculously good dairy. ❤️🐄

From ice cream to butter to cheddar, COWS has managed to turn something as simple as milk into a genuine PEI experience.

And honestly?

I’ll take a scoop of COWS in Cavendish on a summer afternoon over almost any fancy dessert.

Give me a waffle cone, a beautiful PEI day and a flavour that’s packed with chunks of something delicious.

That’s happiness.

Have you tried COWS?

What’s your favourite flavour—or are you more of a butter and cheddar person?

Tell me in the comments. 🐄🍦🧈🧀

The post COWS, PEI & Turning 55: Why I Chose COWS as My Birthday Theme 🐄🍦 appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

One of my favorite traditions is our annual family gathering, lovingly hosted by Nana and Grampy. Every year, they bring everyone together, and each family takes a turn hosting dinner for the group. With around 15 of us altogether, including Rob’s parents, Nana and Grampy, Rob’s sister Stephanie and her family, his brother Neil, his sister Susie and her family, and our own little family, it becomes a week filled with laughter, conversation, and incredible homemade food.

Every meal is prepared with love using fresh, seasonal ingredients, and each dinner reflects the personality of the family hosting. It isn’t about creating a perfect table or an elaborate menu. It’s about gathering together, sharing stories, enjoying delicious home cooked meals, and making memories that we all look forward to every single year.

From Beach Walks to the Dinner Table

One of my favorite parts of our time here has been collecting shells with my nieces. We gathered them along the beach and decided to turn our little seaside treasures into something special for dinner: handmade shell place holders.

We decorated the shells, personalized them with names, and used them to mark everyone’s place at the table. Each one was completely unique, and I loved that something we found together by the ocean became part of our family dinner.

It’s such a simple summer activity to do with kids, too. Collect your favorite shells, clean and dry them, then decorate them with paint, colorful patterns, or each guest’s name. Suddenly, you have a beautiful, personal table detail and a keepsake to remember the day.

A Surfboard for a Dinner Table? Absolutely.

For dinner, we took the coastal theme one step further and used a surfboard as our dining table. It was casual, unexpected, and absolutely perfect for a summer evening by the water.

I made a spread of fresh salads alongside pasta, vegetables, and other dishes for everyone to share. Nothing too formal, just colorful, fresh food served family style while everyone gathered around the table.

Looking down that long table and seeing everyone together was probably my favorite part of the evening. My husband was there with his parents, Nana and Grampy, along with the rest of the family. These are the moments I want to remember: plates full of homemade food, conversations overlapping, people laughing, and the ocean just steps away.

Nana (Right) and Grampy (Left), My husband (middle)

And Then Came the Cake-Off…

Of course, we couldn’t end the day without a little friendly competition!

My nieces, nephew, and I had our own family cake-off, and things got wonderfully creative—and a little messy. We baked and decorated cakes with berries, colorful sprinkles, frosting, and plenty of personality.

Were they bakery-perfect? Definitely not. But that was exactly the point.

There was frosting everywhere, decorations piled high, and so much laughter along the way. By the time we started cutting into the cakes, the table looked like a delicious disaster. And I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

The Kind of Summer I Want to Remember

This trip has reminded me that some of the best memories come from making something out of what’s already around us.

Shells collected during a walk became personalized place holders. A surfboard became our dinner table. Fresh ingredients became a beautiful family feast. A simple baking activity became a hilarious cake competition with my nieces and nephew.

It wasn’t about creating a picture-perfect dinner. It was about creating something together.

And somewhere between collecting shells, tossing salads, decorating cakes, and sitting around the table with Nana, Grampy, my husband, and our family, we created the kind of summer evening I know I’ll look back on and smile.

Because sometimes, the most beautiful tables aren’t the fanciest ones. They’re the ones where everyone you love has a place.

The post A Summer Evening in Parksville: Shell Place Cards, Fresh Salads & a Family Cake-Off appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Tucked into a peaceful corner of the event, Jenna, a licensed acupuncturist from Peace of Nature Acupuncture, welcomed guests for ear acupuncture sessions. As people stepped away from the excitement of the event, they found a quiet space to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with themselves.

Meeting Jenna

Before the treatments began, Jenna explained the fascinating concept behind auricular (ear) acupuncture.

Holding an ear acupuncture model covered with tiny pressure points, she shared how different areas of the ear correspond to different systems throughout the body. It’s remarkable to see how one small part of the body can represent the whole person.

Her calm presence immediately put people at ease, making even first-time visitors feel comfortable asking questions and trying something new.

What Is Ear Acupuncture?

Ear acupuncture is a specialized form of acupuncture based on the idea that the ear contains mapped points connected to various organs and body systems.

Using tiny, sterile needles placed at carefully selected points, practitioners like Jenna aim to support the body’s natural balance and encourage relaxation. Many people include auricular acupuncture as part of their overall wellness routine for stress management, mindfulness, and general well-being.

While everyone’s experience is different, many people describe the treatment as deeply relaxing.

A Quiet Moment in a Busy Event

Watching Jenna work was almost meditative.

Each treatment was performed with precision and care, creating a peaceful atmosphere that stood out from the busy energy of the DRIFT event. Guests settled into comfortable chairs while Jenna gently placed the tiny needles, taking time to explain the process and answer questions.

Some visitors admitted they were nervous beforehand, but after just a few minutes, many commented on how surprisingly calming the experience felt.

It became one of those moments that reminded everyone that wellness isn’t always about doing more—sometimes it’s about slowing down.

More Than Just a Treatment

What made Jenna’s booth special wasn’t just the acupuncture itself.

It was the conversations.

People gathered to learn about holistic wellness, ask questions about stress relief, and discover how traditional practices like acupuncture can complement a healthy lifestyle. Even those who didn’t receive a treatment walked away with a greater appreciation for the body’s incredible ability to restore balance.

Final Thoughts

The DRIFT event celebrated wellness in many forms, but Jenna’s ear acupuncture sessions offered something truly unique—a chance to pause.

In a world that constantly asks us to move faster, taking a few quiet moments to care for ourselves can be one of the most valuable experiences of all.

Whether you’re curious about acupuncture or already enjoy holistic wellness practices, Jenna’s thoughtful approach showed that sometimes the smallest treatments can create the biggest sense of calm.

The post Meet Jenna: Ear Acupuncture at the DRIFT Event | Peace of Nature Acupuncture appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

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Held every Canada Day at Winter Cove in the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, this beloved community fundraiser is much more than a barbecue. It’s a celebration of history, community, and the slower pace of island life that makes Saturna Island such a special place.

A Tradition That Brings Everyone Together

As we arrived, we immediately understood why this event has become a Canada Day tradition for nearly eight decades.

Families spread out picnic blankets, neighbors greeted one another like old friends, volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes, and visitors from across British Columbia gathered to celebrate Canada’s birthday in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable.

There was a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that reminded us how meaningful small-town traditions can be.

Instead of large crowds and busy city celebrations, Canada Day here felt intimate, authentic, and deeply rooted in community.

Watching Lamb Roast Over Open Coals

The first thing that caught our attention was the incredible sight of whole lambs roasting over open alder wood coals.

Lined up over large fire pits, each lamb was slowly cooked using a traditional roasting method that has been passed down through generations. Smoke drifted through the air while volunteers carefully tended the fires, making sure every lamb cooked low and slow.

It wasn’t just fascinating to watch—it was like stepping back in time.

Seeing an entire meal prepared this way is something you don’t experience every day, and it quickly became one of the highlights of our trip.

Worth the Wait

As the smoky aroma filled Winter Cove, anticipation grew throughout the crowd.

When lunch was finally served, we understood why people return year after year.

The lamb was wonderfully tender, juicy, and infused with the rich smoky flavor from hours of slow roasting over alder wood. Every bite reflected the time, care, and tradition that goes into preparing this iconic Canada Day meal.

Simple ingredients, traditional techniques, and passionate volunteers created one of the most memorable meals we’ve enjoyed while traveling.

More Than a Meal

While the barbecue is certainly the star of the event, what truly stayed with us was the sense of community.

People of all ages gathered together, sharing stories, laughter, and meals under the summer sun. Children ran through the open fields while families enjoyed picnics, and visitors were welcomed with genuine island hospitality.

There’s something incredibly refreshing about celebrating a national holiday in a place where the focus isn’t on extravagance but on togetherness.

It reminded us that the best travel experiences are often the simplest ones.

A Beautiful Setting at Winter Cove

The location couldn’t have been more perfect.

Surrounded by lush forests, coastal landscapes, and the peaceful beauty of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, Winter Cove provided the ideal backdrop for this cherished tradition.

Whether you were enjoying lunch, watching the lamb roast over the fire, or simply soaking in the scenery, every moment felt uniquely West Coast.

Why We’ll Be Back

Travel is about collecting experiences that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

For us, attending the 77th Annual Saturna Island Canada Day Lamb Barbecue wasn’t simply about trying delicious food—it was about experiencing a tradition that has connected generations for over 77 years.

It’s easy to see why locals cherish this event and why visitors make the journey back every Canada Day.

Authentic traditions like these remind us that the heart of every destination is its people.

If you’re planning to visit the Gulf Islands around Canada Day, we highly recommend adding the Saturna Island Lamb Barbecue to your itinerary.

From watching whole lambs roast over open fires to sharing a meal with locals in the beautiful surroundings of Winter Cove, it’s an experience that perfectly captures the warmth, hospitality, and traditions of island life.

Sometimes, the most unforgettable travel memories aren’t found in famous landmarks—they’re found around a community table, sharing a meal that has brought people together for generations.

And this is one Canada Day tradition we’ll never forget.

The post A Canada Day Tradition We’ll Never Forget: The 77th Annual Saturna Island Lamb Barbecue 🇨🇦 appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

This isn’t your typical market. There are no busy crowds or long checkout lines—just a group of friends coming together to share what we’ve grown, baked, cooked, and created with our own hands.

From Our Gardens to Your Table

One of the best parts of our Summer Market Swap was all the incredible homemade and homegrown goodies everyone brought to share. From fresh herbs, homemade bread, and refreshing green juice to crisp lettuce, sweet strawberries, homemade cookies, crunchy granola, handcrafted soaps, and beautifully scented candles—every item was made or grown with love.

A Lunch Made for Gathering 🥪🍓

One of my favorite parts of hosting is creating a meal that invites everyone to slow down, relax, and enjoy each other’s company before we start shopping the market.

This time, we gathered around a table filled with fresh sandwiches, sweet local strawberries, crisp Poppi sodas, and refreshing Empress Gin cocktails. Simple, fresh, and absolutely delicious—just the kind of lunch that makes you want to linger a little longer.

There’s something so special about sharing good food with good friends. It sets the tone for an afternoon filled with laughter, creativity, and meaningful conversations. And honestly… it was YUM!

Full Baskets & Even Fuller Hearts 

One of my favorite parts of the Summer Market Swap was watching everyone leave with overflowing baskets. Each of us made six of our homemade or homegrown items, which meant everyone went home with one of every beautiful creation. From fresh herbs and homemade bread to green juice, lettuce, strawberries, cookies, granola, soaps, and candles, every basket was filled with thoughtful gifts made by loving hands.

It wasn’t just about what we took home—it was about sharing what we created, celebrating each other’s talents, and supporting one another in such a meaningful way. We left with baskets full of fresh treasures and hearts even fuller.

A Beautiful Place to Gather 

There’s something truly magical about gathering with women. Research continues to show that strong friendships and meaningful social connections are linked to better health, lower stress, and even a longer, happier life. Our Summer Market Swap was the perfect reminder of that.

Sharing laughter over lunch, shopping each other’s handmade creations, and spending the afternoon together made the day unforgettable. Seeing everyone enjoy the market inside my newly renovated 1927 home made it even more special. Watching every room come to life with friends, creativity, and conversation was exactly what I had envisioned, and I couldn’t have imagined a better way to celebrate the season.

I’m already dreaming about our Fall Market Swap. 🍂💕

The post A Sweet Summer Tradition: Our Summer Market Swap appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

We gathered for a special occasion—to celebrate a dear friend and the exciting new chapter ahead of her. Surrounded by supportive girlfriends, laughter, and heartfelt conversations, it felt like the perfect setting to honor new beginnings and all the possibilities they bring.

Adding to the magic of the evening was the opportunity to experience the incredible new menu by Chef Julie Hyde, thoughtfully paired with exceptional wines. Each course was beautifully presented and expertly crafted, showcasing the creativity, passion, and fresh culinary direction that make The Courtney Room one of Victoria’s finest dining destinations.

From the first bite to the final toast, every dish was memorable. The wine pairings elevated each course beautifully, creating an experience that felt both sophisticated and welcoming. It was clear that every detail had been carefully considered, making the evening feel truly special.

What made the night even more meaningful wasn’t just the remarkable cuisine, but the company around the table. There is something wonderfully fitting about celebrating life’s milestones over an exceptional meal, surrounded by women who encourage, support, and cheer one another on.

The impeccable service, warm hospitality, elegant atmosphere, and unforgettable food all came together to create an experience we’ll treasure for years to come.

As we raised our glasses and toasted to fresh starts, I was reminded that some of life’s greatest joys are found in simple moments shared with friends around a beautiful table.

Here’s to friendship, new beginnings, and savoring every season of life—one memorable meal at a time. 🥂✨

Details

Location: The Courtney Room at Magnolia Hotel & Spa
City: Victoria, British Columbia
Cuisine: Contemporary Fine Dining
Perfect For: Celebrations, girls’ nights, wine pairings, anniversaries, and special occasions

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