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.

That’s exactly the feeling we had spending the day at Twice as Nice.

But this wasn’t just a day of browsing through consignment racks. We were there to style, curate, experiment, and have a whole lot of fun with fashion.

More Than Consignment

There’s a certain misconception that consignment fashion is all about finding something secondhand and calling it a day.

We see it differently.

Consignment is about discovering great pieces and giving them a fresh point of view. A beautiful blouse can look completely different when paired with the right denim. A statement jacket can become an everyday favorite with a simple change of accessories. And that dress you’ve passed over before might suddenly feel completely new when styled in a different way.

At Twice as Nice, we had the chance to play with pieces, put outfits together, mix textures, and create looks that felt current, stylish, and completely wearable.

And honestly? That’s the fun part.

Styling Is What Makes an Outfit Yours

One of my favorite things about fashion is that the same piece can look completely different on two people.

Together with Amy Caine (Owner)

It’s not always about the label, the price tag, or whether something came straight off a store shelf.

It’s about how you style it.

Add a great belt. Layer a jacket. Change the shoes. Switch up the handbag. Add a little jewelry. Suddenly, a piece has a whole new personality.

That’s what makes consignment so exciting. You get the opportunity to find pieces that already have a story and make them part of your own.

Great Style Doesn’t Have to Be Brand New

One of the biggest takeaways from our day was just how fresh consignment fashion can feel.

There were pieces that looked timeless, pieces that felt completely on trend, and plenty that could easily be styled alongside things already hanging in your closet.

And that’s the beauty of it.

Great fashion doesn’t have to be brand new.

Sometimes it’s about finding something special, styling it in a way that feels modern, and making it your own.

For anyone who loves fashion but also loves the thrill of finding something unexpected, consignment shopping can be incredibly rewarding.

Fashion Is More Fun With Friends

Of course, the clothes were only part of the experience.

Doing all of this with friends made the day even better. There was plenty of trying things on, giving opinions, putting unexpected pieces together, laughing at the outfit experiments, and celebrating the finds that just worked.

Fashion should feel fun.

It should be about experimenting without taking yourself too seriously, trying something outside your comfort zone, and finding pieces that make you feel confident.

Sometimes the best style moments happen when you’re simply having a good time.

Consignment, But Make It Chic

Our day at Twice as Nice was a perfect reminder that style isn’t about constantly buying more. It’s about curating better.

Find the pieces that speak to you. Mix old with new. Experiment with proportions and textures. Add your favorite accessories. Most importantly, wear it with confidence.

Because chic isn’t necessarily about what’s new.

It’s about how you make it yours.🤎

A special thank-you to Amy Caine, owner of Twice as Nice, for welcoming us and making our day of styling, shopping, and discovering beautiful consignment pieces so much fun! ✨

📸 Follow: @twiceasniceconsignmentoakbay

The post Consignment, But Make It Chic: A Day at Twice as Nice 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.

The good news? You can achieve a similar polished look for a fraction of the price. This week, I’m sharing three of my favorite designer-inspired Amazon finds that capture the essence of iconic luxury bags while keeping your budget intact.

1. The Woven Tote: Quiet Luxury for Everyday

A woven tote is one of those bags that never goes out of style. It’s roomy enough for work, travel, or weekend errands while instantly making any outfit look more sophisticated.

The luxury version features handwoven leather craftsmanship with a price tag of over $10,000.

The Amazon alternative offers the same oversized woven aesthetic for around $70, making it an easy choice for anyone who loves effortless elegance without the splurge.

Why I love it:

• Spacious enough for work or travel
• Neutral color pairs with everything
• Classic woven texture
• Perfect everyday luxury-inspired tote

Luxury Price: $10,500
Amazon Alternative: Around $70

🛍️ Shop the Amazon Woven Tote Here:
👉 AMAZON WOVEN TOTE

2. The Designer-Inspired Duffel Everyone Is Talking About

Weekend trips deserve a stylish travel bag.

If you’ve admired the iconic patterned luxury duffels seen at airports and weekend getaways, you’ll love this affordable alternative.

The Amazon version features:

• Lightweight design
• Adjustable shoulder strap
• Spacious interior
• Chic travel-ready look

At only $39, it’s an easy addition for anyone who wants their travel accessories to look polished without spending designer prices.

Perfect for:

• Weekend trips
• Gym sessions
• Carry-on travel
• Road trips

Luxury Inspiration: Goyard Travel Bag
Amazon Alternative: Around $39

🛍️ Shop the Amazon Duffel Here:
👉 AMAZON DUFFEL BAG

3. The Woven Shoulder Bag That Looks Surprisingly Luxe

One of the biggest handbag trends over the past few years has been the woven leather shoulder bag.

The designer version sells for around $3,000, but I found an Amazon option for approximately $35 that captures the same minimalist, modern aesthetic.

What makes this bag stand out?

• Soft woven finish
• Clean silhouette
• Gold zipper details
• Neutral enough to pair with almost everything

It’s the perfect everyday bag when you want something elevated yet practical.

Luxury Price: $3,000
Amazon Alternative: Around $35-$39

🛍️ Shop the Amazon Shoulder Bag Here:
👉 AMAZON SHOULDER BAG

Why I Love Finding “Look for Less” Pieces

While I appreciate beautiful designer craftsmanship, I also believe that personal style isn’t defined by a price tag. Thoughtfully chosen affordable pieces can create the same elevated, timeless look while leaving room in your budget for travel, family experiences, and everyday life.

These finds let you enjoy current trends without overspending, and that’s always a win in my book.

If you’ve been looking to refresh your wardrobe without investing thousands, these Amazon finds are definitely worth checking out.

Whether you’re shopping for:

✔️ A woven everyday tote
✔️ A stylish weekend duffel
✔️ A chic woven shoulder bag

…there’s a designer-inspired option that delivers the look for less.

Luxury style doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag.

Happy shopping!

The post Luxury Designer Bag Alternatives: 3 Amazon Finds That Look Designer for Less (2026) appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

One of my favorite ways to shop is finding pieces that capture the same polished look as designer fashion, without spending thousands of dollars. This striped shirt dress is the perfect example.

When I saw this classic silhouette, it immediately reminded me of several high-end dresses from brands like Carolina Herrera, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Tuckernuck. While those dresses range anywhere from $250 to $2,500, I found an Amazon version that delivers the same effortless style for just $39.99.

My Amazon Pick

For only $39.99, this striped shirt dress is comfortable, flattering, and incredibly versatile.

Why I Love It

✔️ Lightweight and breathable fabric

✔️ Classic blue-and-white stripe pattern

✔️ Relaxed fit that’s easy to wear

✔️ Looks polished with almost no effort

✔️ Easy to dress up or down

Whether you’re heading to brunch, running errands, packing for vacation, or spending the weekend with family, this is one of those dresses you’ll reach for again and again.

The Designer Inspiration

I couldn’t help but notice how similar this Amazon find is to some beautiful designer pieces.

Carolina Herrera Striped Cotton-Blend Mini Shirt Dress

Price: $2,500

Known for its tailored silhouette and timeless striped design, this dress is elegant and sophisticated—but definitely an investment piece.

Polo Ralph Lauren Striped Ruffle Shirt Dress

Price: $375

A feminine take on the classic shirt dress with subtle details and everyday versatility.

Tuckernuck Blue Stripe Royal Shirt Dress

Price: $250

Relaxed, effortless, and perfect for casual chic dressing.

Each of these dresses has its own unique details, but they all share the same classic striped aesthetic that never goes out of style.

How I Styled Mine

One of the things I love most about this Amazon dress is how easy it is to style.

For this look, I paired it with:

• Oversized sunglasses
• Minimal jewelry
• Barefoot for a relaxed at-home moment (or pair it with white sneakers or sandals when heading out)
• A simple low bun for an effortless finish

It’s one of those outfits that feels put together without trying too hard.

Why I Love Finding “Look for Less” Pieces

Fashion should be fun and not stressful.

While designer pieces can be beautiful, you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to create a polished wardrobe. Mixing affordable finds with timeless styling allows you to build a closet you’ll actually wear and enjoy.

Sometimes it’s not about the label, it’s about how you wear it.

Shop My Amazon Find

If you’re looking for a timeless striped shirt dress without the luxury price tag, this one is definitely worth checking out.

✨ Price: Only $39.99
GET THE LOOK HERE

As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting LivingHolliStyle!

More Look for Less Finds Coming Soon

If you love discovering affordable pieces inspired by designer fashion, you’re in the right place! I’ll be sharing more Look for Less finds featuring timeless fashion, everyday wardrobe staples, and budget-friendly styles that look anything but inexpensive.

Stay tuned… you won’t want to miss the next one!

The post Look for Less: Amazon Striped Shirt Dress Under $40 appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Whether you’re looking for naturally beautiful lashes, flawless makeup application, or targeted skincare support, these new arrivals have something special to offer.

OLIVE ROSE HT Volumizing Mascara in Brown

Natural beauty starts with the perfect finishing touch.

The new OLIVE ROSE HT Volumizing Mascara in Brown delivers beautifully defined lashes with a softer, more natural look than traditional black mascara. The rich brown shade enhances your eyes while creating a fresh, effortless appearance that’s perfect for everyday wear.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Soft brown pigment for a naturally defined look
• Adds volume without feeling heavy
• Separates and lifts lashes beautifully
• Perfect for daytime makeup or a “no-makeup” makeup look
• Complements every eye color and skin tone

If you’ve been looking for a mascara that enhances rather than overpowers your features, this is the one.

OLIVE ROSE Angel Face Brush

The right tools make all the difference.

Meet the OLIVE ROSE Angel Face Brush, a luxurious dual-ended complexion brush thoughtfully designed to help you achieve a smooth, seamless finish every time.

Its versatile design makes applying cream, liquid, or powder products easier than ever while blending effortlessly for an airbrushed appearance.

Features:

• Dual-ended design for multiple uses
• Perfect for foundation, blush, bronzer, and contour
• Ultra-soft bristles for comfortable application
• Creates a smooth, streak-free finish
• Designed for precision and effortless blending

Whether you’re getting ready for work or a special event, this brush helps make every application look professionally blended.

OLIVEDA I95 Hydroxytyrosol Burn Molecule

Beauty begins from within.

Introducing the OLIVEDA I95 Hydroxytyrosol Burn Molecule, a new wellness innovation featuring concentrated organic olive leaf extract rich in hydroxytyrosol and olive polyphenols.

Hydroxytyrosol is one of nature’s most powerful antioxidants and is known for helping protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress while supporting overall wellness.

Highlights:

• Concentrated organic olive leaf extract
• Rich in hydroxytyrosol and olive polyphenols
• Powerful antioxidant support
• Supports overall wellness from within
• Designed to complement a healthy lifestyle

As with all Oliveda products, this formula reflects the brand’s commitment to harnessing the remarkable benefits of the olive tree.

Why We Love These New Launches

These three products perfectly represent what makes Oliveda and OLIVE ROSE unique—combining innovative formulations with naturally inspired ingredients and thoughtfully designed beauty essentials.

Whether you’re:

• Looking for softer, naturally defined lashes,
• Upgrading your makeup tools,
• Or adding antioxidant support to your wellness routine,

there’s something new to love.

Ready to Try Them?

Click here to SHOP

Now is the perfect time to discover these exciting new additions and experience the Oliveda difference for yourself.

Shop the new arrivals today and elevate your beauty and wellness routine with the power of the olive tree.

The post Meet the Three Newest Additions to the OLIVE ROSE & OLIVEDA Collection 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.