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

The post A Memorable Evening at The Courtney Room in Victoria BC | Fine Dining & Friendship appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

A Morning of Style and Friendship

Some days are about more than just clothes. They’re about laughter, friendship, and feeling confident in your own skin. That’s exactly what this shoot captured.

Surrounded by incredible women and timeless pieces, we spent the day celebrating fashion, community, and the joy of dressing in a way that makes you feel like yourself.

From cozy Canadian-inspired sweaters to effortlessly chic everyday pieces, every look reflected what I love most about style: comfort, confidence, and authenticity.

Why l love hughes clothing

Nestled on beautiful Oak Bay Avenue, hughes clothing has long been one of Victoria’s favorite destinations for thoughtfully curated fashion. The boutique offers pieces that are classic yet modern—perfect for women who want to look polished without sacrificing comfort.

What I appreciate most about hughes is that their collections are wearable. These are the kinds of pieces that fit seamlessly into real life—whether you’re meeting friends for coffee, heading out for dinner, or simply enjoying a day around town.

Fashion After 50

At this stage in life, I’ve learned that fashion isn’t about following trends. It’s about wearing what makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Getting older doesn’t mean giving up on style—it means embracing it with more confidence than ever. I love finding pieces that are timeless, flattering, and easy to wear, and Hughes continues to be one of my favorite places to discover them.

More Than a Photoshoot

What made this day especially memorable wasn’t just the beautiful clothing—it was the people.

Sharing laughs, posing with friends, and creating memories together reminded me that some of life’s sweetest moments are the simple ones. Fashion can bring people together, tell stories, and celebrate every season of life.

And honestly, that’s what style should be about.

Visiting Oak Bay Avenue

If you’re ever in Victoria, British Columbia, I highly recommend taking a stroll down Oak Bay Avenue. Between the charming shops, wonderful restaurants, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon.

And if you’re looking for beautiful, timeless fashion with exceptional service, make sure to stop by hughes clothing. You might just leave with a new favorite outfit—and maybe even a few new memories.

Because style isn’t about age—it’s about confidence, friendship, and enjoying every beautiful season of life. 🤍

Have you visited hughes clothing or Oak Bay Avenue? I’d love to hear about your favorite local boutiques in the comments!

The post A Fashion Shoot at Hughes Clothing: Celebrating Style and Friendship on Oak Bay Avenue appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Others are about the people.

And some are about creating an experience you’ll remember long after the candles have been blown out.

That perfectly describes Debbie Luo’s birthday celebration.

With a beautiful Coastal Blues theme, the afternoon felt like a little escape to the seaside—elegant, relaxed, and filled with thoughtful details that made every moment special.

From the moment we arrived, it was clear that every detail had been carefully planned. The table was decorated with soft ocean-inspired hues, personalized cookies, sweet treats, and the most beautiful blue cocktails that perfectly captured the theme.

Of course, the guests joined in as well, dressed in shades of coastal blue that brought the entire vision together.

The Perfect Setting

The celebration took place at Marilena, one of Victoria’s most celebrated dining destinations.

Known for its exceptional cuisine, sophisticated atmosphere, and stunning presentation, it provided the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of celebration.

What I love most about restaurants like Marilena is that they don’t just serve food—they create an experience.

Every dish, every cocktail, and every detail feels intentional.

It was the ideal setting for gathering with friends, sharing stories, and celebrating another wonderful year of life.

If you’re visiting Victoria or looking for a memorable dining experience, I highly recommend checking out Marilena Cafe + Raw Bar.

More Than a Birthday

While the décor and cocktails were beautiful, the best part of the day was spending time with an incredible group of women.

There is something special about gathering around a table, catching up on life, laughing until your cheeks hurt, and simply enjoying each other’s company.

In today’s busy world, those moments feel even more valuable.

Birthdays give us the opportunity to pause, celebrate, and appreciate the people who make life richer and more meaningful.

A Toast to Another Wonderful Year

Debbie’s Coastal Blues celebration was the perfect combination of elegance, friendship, and fun.

Beautiful details.

Wonderful company.

Amazing food.

And plenty of reasons to smile.

As we raised our glasses and toasted another year ahead, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for moments like these—the ones that remind us that life’s greatest luxuries aren’t things at all.

They’re the people we share it with.

Happy Birthday, Debbie! 💙

Here’s to another year filled with adventure, laughter, friendship, and many more beautiful celebrations.

The post A Birthday Toast in Shades of Blue appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Others invite you to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

My recent stay at the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa in Vancouver was exactly that—a beautiful blend of comfort, luxury, and intentional rest. It reminded me that sometimes the most memorable travel experiences aren’t found on a packed itinerary but in the quiet moments in between.

The Art of Slowing Down

Nestled in the heart of downtown Vancouver, the Wedgewood Hotel feels like a hidden sanctuary. The moment I stepped inside, I felt an immediate sense of calm.

The elegant rooms, beautiful city views, and warm hospitality created the perfect atmosphere for a much-needed reset.

As someone who is constantly balancing work, family, wellness, and everyday life, slowing down doesn’t always come naturally. But this trip gave me permission to do exactly that.

And honestly, I needed it.

My New Favorite Travel Companion: BedHead Pajamas

One unexpected highlight of the trip?

My new BedHead Pajamas.

If you’ve never experienced the joy of slipping into a beautiful pajama set at the end of a long day, let me tell you—you’re missing out.

Whether it was the cheerful yellow floral print, the playful pink lobster design, or the soft blue botanical pattern, each pair instantly elevated my hotel experience.

They were comfortable enough for lounging, stylish enough for those cozy morning photos, and somehow made room service coffee taste even better.

There is something wonderfully luxurious about investing in pieces that make everyday moments feel special.

These pajamas did exactly that.

The Best Part of the Stay

While the hotel itself was stunning, some of my favorite moments happened right in the room.

Reading a book in bed.

Watching the morning light fill the room.

Sipping coffee while looking out at Vancouver.

Sharing quiet moments with my sweet furry companion, who quickly claimed the bed as his own.

No agenda.

No rushing.

No pressure.

Just presence.

In a world that constantly encourages us to do more, I’ve come to appreciate the value of doing less every once in a while.

Why Rest Matters

We’re often taught to celebrate productivity.

But rest deserves celebration too.

Rest allows us to recharge.

Rest helps us show up better for the people we love.

Rest gives us the clarity and energy to pursue the things that matter most.

This getaway reminded me that self-care doesn’t always have to be elaborate. Sometimes it’s as simple as booking a beautiful hotel, putting on your favorite pajamas, cuddling with your dog, and allowing yourself to enjoy a slow morning.

Visit Bedhead Pajamas – Use code JODY10 for 10% off

A Vancouver Experience I’ll Never Forget

The Wedgewood Hotel & Spa provided the perfect backdrop for this experience.

Elegant without feeling pretentious.

Luxurious without feeling overwhelming.

Comfortable in all the ways that matter most.

Combined with my new BedHead Pajamas and a few uninterrupted moments of rest, it became one of those trips that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

Because sometimes the greatest luxury isn’t found in doing more.

It’s found in slowing down enough to truly enjoy where you are.

Shop My Stay

🩷 Pajamas: BedHead Pajamas
Use code JODY10 for 10% off

🏨 Hotel: Wedgewood Hotel & Spa

Have you ever had a trip where the quiet moments became your favorite memories? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below.

The post Slow Mornings, Cozy Pajamas & a Little Vancouver Magic appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Over the past two years, the pickleball courts at Uptown became one of those places.

What started as a place to rally quickly became something much bigger—a gathering place for friends, families, neighbors, beginners learning their first serve, seasoned players chasing long rallies, birthday celebrations, lessons, workouts, and countless unforgettable memories.

This past Saturday, we came together one last time to celebrate it all with The Last Rally—a farewell event for the courts and the amazing community that made them so special.

And what a sendoff it was.

A Day to Remember

We kicked off the day with an incredible workout that brought energy, laughter, and plenty of sweat under the sun. It was challenging, fun, and the perfect way to start the celebration.

Guests spent the morning enjoying smoothies, fresh fruit, and mimosas while catching up courtside and soaking in the atmosphere. Throughout the event, there was bracelet making, sushi, sliders, and so many thoughtful touches that made the day feel extra special.

Then came what we all came for—pickleball all afternoon.

The courts stayed full with rallies, friendly competition, laughter, cheering, and players enjoying one more day together in a space that became part of so many routines and memories.

More Than Just Pickleball

The courts gave us more than games.

They gave us community.

They became a place where people met new friends, celebrated milestones, stayed active, learned something new, and made memories together.

To the VRPA members who made the courts their own from day one, the coaches who taught so many of us the game, the families who celebrated here, and everyone who ever picked up a paddle and joined us—thank you.

You made this corner of Uptown something unforgettable.

Thank You for Being Part of the Story

The Last Rally was the perfect reminder of what made this space so special from the very beginning—not just the courts themselves, but the people who filled them.

To everyone who joined us for the farewell—thank you for playing, celebrating, connecting, and making this final day one we’ll never forget.

While we may be saying goodbye to the courts, the memories made here will stay with us long after the final rally.

And that’s something worth celebrating.

What’s Coming Up at Uptown

And while one chapter closes, another one is just getting started.

This July, Uptown will be offering free workout classes led by two amazing instructors. The classes are expected to take place on Saturdays at 9:00 AM (final confirmation coming soon) and will be open to everyone.

It’s a great opportunity to keep moving, stay connected, and continue building community together at Uptown.

Stay tuned for more details—we can’t wait to see you there.

Until we play again. 🏓✨

The post The Last Rally: A Farewell to the Courts at Uptown appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Maybe it was the anticipation of finally seeing The Devil Wears Prada 2. Maybe it was the outfits. Maybe it was the espresso martinis and dirty diet coke. Or maybe it was simply being surrounded by women who make life feel lighter, funnier, and more inspiring.

Either way, the entire night felt iconic from start to finish. ❤️👠✨

Main Character Energy All Night Long

The moment we walked in, it honestly felt like we stepped into our own little fashion movie.

Everyone came dressed for the occasion — chic neutrals, elevated basics, polished makeup, effortless confidence. It was giving Miranda Priestly approved without even trying too hard.

And somehow, the excitement in the room made us all feel like little girls again — excited over fashion, glamour, storytelling, and the nostalgia of one of the most iconic movies ever made.

Because let’s be honest:
The Devil Wears Prada isn’t just a movie.

It’s a cultural moment.

The Sequel We Secretly Needed

Watching The Devil Wears Prada 2 felt oddly emotional in the best way possible.

The original movie shaped so many women growing up — teaching us about ambition, reinvention, confidence, and the complicated balance between career, identity, and personal happiness.

So seeing those familiar fashion-filled moments again felt nostalgic, comforting, and honestly inspiring.

And yes…
Miranda Priestly still walks into a room like she owns oxygen itself. 😉

Let’s Talk About the Real Star: The Dirty Diet Coke

Unexpectedly, one of the highlights of the night wasn’t even the movie.

It was the dirty diet coke.

Because apparently adding coconut, lime, cream, and extra flair to a Diet Coke somehow turns it into the personality trait of the evening. And honestly? We understood the hype immediately.

Between dirty diet cokes, espresso martinis, movie snacks, and endless conversations, it became one of those nights where nobody wanted to check the time.

The kind of night where laughter comes easily.
Where everyone feels relaxed.
Where pictures are taken nonstop because you already know you’ll want to remember it later.

Why Experiences Like This Matter More As We Get Older

As adults, life becomes so focused on responsibilities.

Work.
Bills.
Schedules.
Deadlines.
Family.
Stress.

And somewhere in between all of that, we sometimes forget how important joy actually is.

This night reminded us that fun is productive too.

Dressing up for no reason.
Watching a movie you’re excited about.
Ordering the fun drink.
Taking blurry photos with your friends.
Laughing until your stomach hurts.

Those moments matter more than we realize.

Because years from now, we probably won’t remember another random workday.

But we will remember nights like this.

Fashion, Friendship & Feeling Inspired Again

There was something refreshing about being in a room full of women simply enjoying themselves.

No pressure.
No competition.
No need to impress anyone.

Just fashion, friendship, confidence, and the reminder that femininity can be powerful, fun, soft, ambitious, glamorous, and authentic all at the same time.

Honestly, that might’ve been the best part of the entire night.

Final Thoughts

The Devil Wears Prada 2 gave us exactly what we needed:

• nostalgia
• fashion inspiration
• iconic moments
• dirty diet coke cravings
• espresso martinis
• unforgettable laughs
• and memories that already feel special

And maybe that’s the real takeaway from nights like this:

Life is meant to be experienced.

Not rushed through.

So wear the outfit.
Order the fun drink.
Watch the movie.
Take the photo.
Spend time with the people who make you feel alive.

Because those are the moments that end up meaning everything.

The post The Devil Wears Prada 2, Dirty Diet Coke & the Kind of Night Every Girl Needs appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

It doesn’t need to be loud or overly complicated to make an impression. A beautiful white dress carries a softness and elegance that always feels effortless. And sometimes, the simplest outfits become part of the memories we hold onto the longest.

This dress became one of those memories for me.

It was one of those peaceful afternoons where everything seemed to slow down. The sun felt warm but gentle, the trees moved softly with the breeze, and the park carried a quiet kind of beauty that made you want to stay a little longer than planned.

The moment I put on this white cape dress, I instantly fell in love with how it moved. The fabric felt light and graceful, and the silhouette was both structured and feminine at the same time. Walking through the park while the cape detail caught the breeze created such an effortless, romantic feeling.

It felt elegant without trying too hard — and honestly, that’s what made it so special.

👉 Shop similar white cape dresses here: DAZY Cloak Dress

Gilded Elegance: Styling the Perfect White Cape Dress

Finding a dress that feels both modern and timeless is not always easy, but this style immediately stood out to me. The clean lines, soft draping, and dramatic cape sleeves gave the entire look a polished yet ethereal feel.

What I loved most was how balanced the design felt.

The Cape Detail

The cape sleeves added movement and softness without overwhelming the look. It created a subtle drama that photographed beautifully outdoors, especially with the natural light filtering through the trees.

It felt refined, feminine, and quietly powerful all at once.

The Ruched Silhouette

The ruching along the waist helped create a flattering shape while still feeling comfortable and effortless to wear. It hugged the body in a soft, elegant way without feeling too structured or restrictive.

The combination of clean tailoring and soft draping made the dress feel incredibly sophisticated.

The Accessories

To keep the look elevated yet simple, I paired the dress with delicate gold jewelry and neutral accessories. A few layered necklaces, classic gold hoops, and elegant heels were enough to complete the outfit without taking attention away from the dress itself.

👉 Shop similar accessories here: Gold Earrings

Sometimes the most beautiful styling comes from keeping things minimal and intentional.

Capturing the Moment at the Park

As photos were being taken throughout the afternoon, I realized it was never really just about the dress.

It became about the feeling the entire experience created.

Walking along quiet pathways surrounded by greenery. Standing beneath the trees while sunlight filtered through the leaves. Laughing between photos and simply enjoying the stillness of the afternoon.

Everything felt calm, effortless, and completely present.

Sometimes photos capture more than an outfit. They capture a season of life, a feeling, or a moment you didn’t realize you would want to remember forever.

And this white dress became part of that memory.

How to Recreate This Look for Less

One thing I love about fashion is that you do not need a luxury budget to achieve an elevated look.

While this dress has a very designer-inspired feel, there are so many beautiful and affordable alternatives available. I’ll be linking similar styles from SHEIN throughout this post for anyone wanting to recreate this elegant white dress aesthetic at a more accessible price point.

My Favorite SHEIN Finds

• SHEIN Black Velvet Mesh Long Sleeve Fitted Stand Collar Elegant Romantic Dress
• Omancia Women’s Winter Party White Dress
• Spring/Summer White Sheer Romantic Elegant Fashion Chiffon Cape Design

When searching for similar styles, try keywords like:

• white cape sleeve dress
• ruched white midi dress
• elegant white bodycon dress
• white dress with cape detail
• minimalist white formal dress

The key to making the look feel luxurious is in the styling. Simple gold jewelry, neutral heels, and soft makeup instantly elevate even the most affordable pieces.

The post The White Dress That Made Me Slow Down appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

This year, mine looked like this: a round table, soft pink light filtering through sheer curtains, cascading greenery behind me, and a group of women I adore sitting close enough to laugh over each other’s stories. All of it unfolding at Botanist, tucked inside the beautiful Fairmont Pacific Rim.

The Setting

The space itself feels like a dream.
Light, airy, almost like you’ve stepped into a modern greenhouse in the middle of the city. The way the vines fall behind the table, the soft tones, the quiet elegance—it doesn’t try too hard, but it feels special.

And that’s exactly what you want for a birthday.

The Energy

Six girls.
No rush.
Just that easy, effortless kind of laughter that only happens when you’ve known each other long enough to feel completely yourself.

We toasted (more than once), leaned in close to hear stories, and let the afternoon stretch out in the best way. There’s something about being surrounded by women who truly celebrate you—it changes the whole feeling of a birthday.

It becomes less about the day… and more about the people.

The Food

Every plate that came out felt like art.

Fresh, vibrant greens with delicate edible flowers.
Beautifully plated dishes with layers of flavour you actually stop to notice.
And a dessert that felt almost too pretty to touch—but of course, we did.

It’s not just about eating here. It’s about experiencing the food.

The Cocktails

Soft, citrusy, floral—served in the prettiest coupe glasses with delicate edible flowers floating on top.

The kind of drink you hold for a second before sipping, just to take it in.

And yes… we clinked glasses for that perfect moment (and maybe a photo or two 😉).

The Moment

There’s a photo of me mid-laugh, another making a wish, and one where we’re all raising our glasses together—and when I look at them, I don’t just see a lunch.

I see connection.
I see joy.
I see a moment in time where everything felt easy, beautiful, and exactly as it should be.

The Takeaway

This birthday reminded me of something simple but important:

You don’t need anything over the top to make a day feel special.
You just need the right people, a beautiful space, and the willingness to be present in it.

And honestly… I wouldn’t have changed a thing.

The post Botanist Vancouver Experience at Fairmont Pacific Rim appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

This year, I chose to celebrate in a way that felt deeply personal and meaningful: by adding new pieces to my growing Sid Dickens collection. Over the years, what started as just a few carefully chosen memory blocks has slowly turned into a beautiful gallery wall above my kitchen fireplace — one filled with stories, milestones, emotions, and memories from different chapters of my life.

But this birthday experience was about so much more than collecting tiles.

It was about celebrating friendship, memories, and the beauty of meaningful art.

Walking into the Sid Dickens Gallery in Vancouver alongside my girlfriends felt incredibly special. The gallery itself was warm, inspiring, and filled with pieces that each seemed to tell their own story. There’s something magical about being surrounded by art that carries symbolism and emotion — especially when shared with women who truly know and celebrate you.

One of the most unforgettable parts of the day was meeting Sid Dickens himself.

It honestly felt like such a full-circle moment.

Hearing the inspiration behind the collections and seeing the intentional details within each piece made the experience even more meaningful. Choosing my next six memory blocks became less about decoration and more about connection — selecting symbols that reflected where I’ve been, what I value, and the chapter I’m stepping into now.

Of course, my girlfriends made the entire experience even more memorable. From helping me narrow down favorites to sharing opinions and laughing over each choice, they turned what could have been a simple shopping trip into one of the most heartfelt birthday memories I’ve ever had.

And one of the sweetest touches of all? Receiving a birthday gift card that allowed me to continue growing a collection that means so much to me.

Now every time I walk past my gallery wall, I don’t just see beautiful memory blocks.

I see that day.

The laughter.
The love.
The conversations.
The feeling of being celebrated.
The joy of creating something lasting.

That’s what makes collecting so meaningful to me. It’s never simply about owning beautiful pieces — it’s about the memories, emotions, and experiences attached to them.

And this memory?

This one will stay with me forever. 🤍

Why I Love Collecting Sid Dickens Memory Blocks

What I love most about Sid Dickens pieces is how timeless and personal they feel. Every tile tells a story, carries symbolism, and becomes part of your home in such a meaningful way. Over time, my collection has become more than décor — it has become a reflection of my life, my milestones, and the people I love most.

If you ever have the opportunity to visit the gallery in Vancouver, I truly recommend experiencing it for yourself. Whether you’re an art lover, collector, or simply someone who cherishes meaningful keepsakes, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

If you ever find yourself planning a getaway or simply wanting to do something meaningful for yourself, I highly recommend visiting Sid Dickens Gallery.

Take your time. Don’t rush the experience. Let yourself connect with what you’re seeing. Because sometimes, the most memorable celebrations aren’t the loudest ones—they’re the ones that quietly stay with you long after they’re over.

Why I Love Collecting Sid Dickens Memory Blocks

What I love most about Sid Dickens pieces is how timeless and personal they feel. Every tile tells a story, carries symbolism, and becomes part of your home in such a meaningful way. Over time, my collection has become more than décor—it has become a reflection of my life, my milestones, and the people I love most.

If you ever have the opportunity to visit the gallery in Vancouver, I truly recommend experiencing it for yourself. Whether you’re an art lover, collector, or simply someone who cherishes meaningful keepsakes, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

If you ever find yourself planning a getaway or simply wanting to do something meaningful for yourself, I highly recommend visiting Sid Dickens Gallery. Take your time—don’t rush the experience. Let yourself connect with what you’re seeing. Because sometimes, the most memorable celebrations aren’t the loudest ones—they’re the ones that quietly stay with you long after they’re over.

 Shop the Look 

Many of you asked about the outfit I wore during my gallery visit! You can find this White Lace Button-Down Shirt here on Amazon. As seen in the photo it features beautiful intricate floral patterns and elegant long sleeves, making it the perfect choice for a sophisticated gallery day.

The post Collecting Memories at Sid Dickens Gallery appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

The post A Butter Yellow Birthday Celebration Filled With Style, Friendship, and Meaningful Memories appeared first on Living Hollis Style.