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.

From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere felt welcoming and uplifting. We checked in, rolled out our mats on the beach, and prepared for an energizing workout as the sun began its slow descent over the water. The fresh sea air and stunning coastal views made every movement feel even more refreshing.

Fitness That Feels Like Fun

The beach workout reminded us that fitness doesn’t have to happen inside a gym. Exercising outdoors, surrounded by nature and supportive women, creates an entirely different experience. Every squat, stretch, and strength exercise was accompanied by laughter, encouragement, and breathtaking views of the ocean.

Sweat & Social Victoria has created more than just a workout—it’s a space where women can prioritize their health while building genuine friendships and celebrating movement together.

The Perfect Post-Workout Social

After class, everyone gathered for a beautiful beach social featuring refreshing mocktails, healthy bites, and time to simply connect.

One of the evening’s highlights was the incredible catering by Crumbs Coastal Kitchen, who prepared a fresh, colorful spread that was as nourishing as it was beautiful. From crisp vegetables and creamy dips to handmade pasta salad and wholesome snacks, every bite complemented the wellness-focused evening perfectly.

Meet Crumbs Coastal Kitchen

Behind Crumbs Coastal Kitchen are Chef Darryl Crumb and his wife Julia Hunter, a registered nurse and wellness advocate who share a passion for helping people thrive through nourishing food and meaningful connection.

As parents of two young daughters, they’ve built a family-owned business centered on one simple belief: great food brings people together.

Their approach combines Chef Darryl’s culinary expertise with Julia’s background in preventative health and wellness, creating meals that celebrate fresh, locally inspired ingredients while fostering community around the table.

Whether they’re catering beachfront wellness events, boutique weddings, intimate gatherings, private celebrations, or serving from their food truck, Crumbs Coastal Kitchen focuses on thoughtful hospitality, fresh seasonal flavors, and creating memorable experiences through food.

Their beautiful grazing tables and wholesome dishes were the perfect addition to an evening centered around wellness and connection.

More Than Just Exercise

One of the most beautiful parts of the evening wasn’t the workout itself—it was the friendships.

Between the laughs, group photos, healthy snacks, and conversations overlooking the ocean, we were reminded that wellness is about so much more than exercise. It’s about surrounding yourself with people who inspire you, encourage you, and make healthy living feel joyful.

These are the moments that fill your cup long after the workout is over.

Looking Forward to the Next One

As the sun began to set and everyone headed home with smiles (and a fun swag bag!), it was clear this was more than just a fitness event—it was a celebration of movement, community, and supporting local businesses that share the same passion for wellness.

We’re already looking forward to the next beach social.

Because the best workouts don’t just make you stronger—they introduce you to incredible people, unforgettable experiences, and communities that feel like home. 💕🌊💪

The post Sunset Sweats, Coastal Bites & Community: An Evening with Sweat & Social Victoria 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.

There’s something so special about filling your basket with things created by friends. It’s more than just shopping—it’s supporting each other, celebrating creativity, and enjoying the simple joys of the season together.

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.

And then there are experiences that completely shift your nervous system.

DRIFT by Sweat & Social Victoria was one of those rare experiences.

Hosted at The Parkside Spa, DRIFT combines floating meditation, sound healing, aromatherapy, and intentional mindfulness into one beautifully curated evening. Every detail was thoughtfully chosen—not simply to create a spa event, but to invite you into complete rest.

First Impressions

Walking into the pool area immediately set the tone.

The lights were dimmed, candles flickered around the water, and dozens of floating mats gently drifted across the warm pool. Crystal singing bowls surrounded the space while oversized gongs stood waiting at the front of the room.

There was no rush.

No phones.

No expectations.

Just calm.

Everyone arrived wearing soft white spa robes, quietly preparing for an evening unlike anything most of us had experienced before.

The Ritual Begins

One of the things I loved most about DRIFT was how intentional every single detail felt.

Before we entered the water, each guest received thoughtfully selected comforts that instantly encouraged relaxation.

✨ Soft meditation blankets

✨ Lavender-scented silk eye pillows

✨ Floating mats that allowed your body to effortlessly drift across the water

The beautiful meditation blankets and eye pillows from B Halfmoon weren’t simply accessories—they became part of the ritual itself.

The gentle lavender scent immediately helped quiet my mind while the soft eye pillow encouraged me to let go of visual distractions and become fully present.

Wrapped in the blanket, floating weightlessly, it became surprisingly easy to surrender.

Floating Without Effort

There is something incredibly peaceful about floating.

Unlike lying on a massage table, the water supports your entire body.

Every small movement creates gentle ripples that slowly carry you around the pool.

You stop thinking about posture.

You stop thinking about your to-do list.

You simply breathe.

Watching everyone quietly drifting across the water felt almost surreal.

Some people closed their eyes immediately.

Others watched the ceiling for a few moments before relaxing completely.

Within minutes, the entire room seemed to settle into one collective rhythm.

The Sound Journey

Then came the sound healing.

Led by Little Pili, the experience unfolded through crystal singing bowls, resonant gongs, and carefully layered frequencies that filled the entire space.

The sounds weren’t loud.

They weren’t overwhelming.

They simply moved through the room—and somehow through you.

Each vibration seemed to melt away another layer of tension.

It wasn’t just something you heard.

It was something you felt.

Sometimes deep.

Sometimes gentle.

Always grounding.

More Than Relaxation

What surprised me most wasn’t how relaxed I felt.

It was how present I became.

Without screens.

Without notifications.

Without conversation.

For nearly an hour, there was nowhere else to be.

That stillness is incredibly rare today.

The combination of warm water, calming scents, soothing sound frequencies, and floating weightlessness created an environment where slowing down didn’t require effort.

It happened naturally.

Small Details That Made a Big Difference

One thing that stood out throughout the evening was the incredible attention to detail.

Even before the session began, guests gathered together, enjoyed light refreshments, shared conversations, and eased into the experience. The atmosphere felt welcoming rather than formal.

Throughout the evening, every element worked together seamlessly:

• Floating meditation mats that allowed effortless movement
• Lavender silk eye pillows that encouraged deep relaxation
• Cozy meditation blankets for warmth and comfort
• Warm indoor pool at The Parkside Spa
• Crystal singing bowls and resonant gongs
• Soft candlelight surrounding the water
• A peaceful, judgment-free atmosphere where everyone could simply be

None of these elements alone would have created the same experience.

Together, they transformed an ordinary evening into something deeply restorative.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an experience that’s different from a traditional spa day, I can’t recommend DRIFT enough.

I had the opportunity to experience it during a special evening hosted by Sweat & Social Victoria, a wonderful community that brings women together to discover and try unique wellness experiences.

DRIFT isn’t just floating. It isn’t just meditation. And it isn’t just sound healing.

It’s a beautifully curated experience that combines movement, stillness, and immersive sound in a way that allows you to truly disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself.

From the moment I settled onto the floating mat until the final notes of the sound bath faded away, I felt completely supported—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Sometimes the best form of self-care isn’t about doing more.

It’s about allowing yourself to simply drift.

Check out their Instagram page here: Sweat & Social

The post Drift at Sweat & Social Victoria: The Floating Sound Bath That Gave Me Permission to Slow Down appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

What if the secret to caring for a baby’s delicate skin wasn’t found in a laboratory, but in a tree that has nurtured families for over 4,000 years?

That’s the inspiration behind Oliveda’s newest launch—a groundbreaking waterless skincare collection created especially for babies and moms. Drawing from the remarkable history of the olive tree, this new line blends ancient Mediterranean wisdom with modern skincare innovation in a way that feels both timeless and refreshingly new.

A Tradition That Began Thousands of Years Ago

Long before skincare became an industry, civilizations like the Egyptians and Greeks trusted the olive tree for nourishment, healing, and everyday beauty rituals.

Legend has it that icons such as Cleopatra embraced the nourishing properties of olive oil, while the olive tree itself became a symbol of life, wellness, and abundance.

Today, Oliveda is bringing that same philosophy into a new generation of skincare—designed for the two people who deserve the gentlest care of all: mothers and babies.

Why Waterless Beauty Matters

Take a look at the ingredients on most skincare products, and you’ll notice something surprising—water is usually the first ingredient.

Oliveda asked a simple question:

What if we replaced water with something that actually nourishes the skin?

Instead of using water as a filler, Oliveda formulates its products with nutrient-rich olive tree elixirs, creating highly concentrated skincare powered by nature.

According to the company, the new Baby & Mom collection contains 77% to 95% ingredients derived from the olive tree, delivering botanical care inspired by centuries of tradition.

It’s a different way of thinking about skincare—one that values quality over quantity.

Gentle Care Inspired by Nature

A baby’s skin is incredibly delicate. Mothers, especially during pregnancy and postpartum, often seek products that are gentle, comforting, and thoughtfully made.

That’s what makes this launch so exciting.

Rather than following skincare trends, Oliveda has looked back to one of nature’s oldest wellness traditions, creating products inspired by the olive tree’s naturally nourishing properties.

It’s skincare rooted in simplicity, heritage, and respect for nature.

Why Families Are Excited About This Collection

What makes this collection truly unique isn’t just the products—it’s the philosophy behind them. Rather than relying on water as the primary ingredient, Oliveda replaces it with potent olive tree beauty elixirs, creating highly concentrated botanical formulas inspired by more than 4,000 years of Mediterranean wellness traditions.

Whether you’re expecting your first baby, caring for a newborn, or treating yourself to a little extra self-care, the Baby & Mom collection offers gentle, nature-inspired skincare for every stage of the journey.

Explore the Oliveda Baby & Mom Collection

Love Belly Massage Elixir

Hydrates. Softens. Comforts.

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and your skin deserves extra love along the way. The Love Belly Massage Elixir helps deeply nourish stretching skin while leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and supple. It’s perfect for daily belly massages and self-care rituals throughout pregnancy.

Best for:

• Growing baby bumps
• Dry, tight skin
• Daily massage and relaxation

Mom’s Glowing Face Serum

Radiance for tired skin.

Motherhood can be exhausting, but your skincare routine doesn’t have to be. This lightweight serum helps replenish moisture and supports a healthy-looking glow, leaving skin refreshed and luminous.

Best for:

• Dull skin
• Daily hydration
• A radiant complexion

Tender Nipple Balm

Gentle comfort for breastfeeding moms.

Specially created to soothe delicate skin, this nourishing balm helps moisturize and comfort dry or sensitive nipples during breastfeeding without unnecessary ingredients.

Best for:

• Nursing mothers
• Dry, sensitive skin
• Everyday comfort

Happy Mom Face Cream

Daily nourishment for busy moms.

Rich yet lightweight, this face cream helps lock in hydration while supporting soft, healthy-looking skin. It pairs perfectly with the Mom’s Glowing Face Serum for a complete skincare routine.

Best for:

• Daily moisturizing
• Dry or combination skin
• Long-lasting hydration

Olive Blossom Baby Body Lotion

Soft hydration from head to toe.

Designed for a baby’s delicate skin, this gentle lotion helps maintain moisture while leaving skin feeling silky soft without feeling heavy.

Best for:

• Daily moisturizing
• Sensitive baby skin
• Gentle hydration

Little Olive Sleepy Time Baby Bath Elixir

A calming bedtime ritual.

Transform bath time into a soothing experience with this gentle cleansing elixir. Its nourishing formula helps leave baby’s skin feeling clean, soft, and comfortable before bedtime.

Best for:

• Evening baths
• Relaxing bedtime routines
• Everyday cleansing

Olive Cuddle Baby Massage Elixir

Bond through touch.

Baby massage is a wonderful way to strengthen the parent-child connection. This nourishing massage elixir glides smoothly over the skin while helping keep it soft and moisturized.

Best for:

• Baby massage
• Bonding time
• Soft, nourished skin

Bubble Olive Baby Wash & Shampoo

Two-in-one gentle cleansing.

A mild cleanser formulated for both hair and body, making bath time simple while respecting the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

Best for:

• Hair and body
• Everyday use
• Delicate skin and scalp

Olive Shield Baby Barrier Cream

Protects delicate skin.

Created to help support the skin’s natural protective barrier, this rich cream is ideal for areas prone to dryness or irritation, especially around the diaper area.

Best for:

• Dry patches
• Everyday protection
• Delicate skin

Olive Rescue Baby Rash Balm

Comfort when baby needs it most.

This soothing balm is designed to comfort irritated skin while helping maintain healthy-looking skin during diaper changes.

Best for:

• Diaper area care
• Sensitive skin
• Everyday protection

Olive Leaf Baby Rescue Gel

Cooling botanical care.

A lightweight gel that provides a refreshing touch whenever baby’s skin needs extra comfort. Perfect for keeping on hand as part of your daily baby care routine.

Best for:

• Cooling hydration
• Delicate skin
• Quick soothing care

🛍️ Explore the full Baby & Mom Collection: Olive Tree People Official Store

Whether you’re shopping for yourself, your little one, or looking for clean, botanical skincare inspired by over 4,000 years of olive tree tradition, there’s something for every stage of life.

Disclaimer: This article is based on Oliveda International’s June 2026 press release. Product descriptions and future business plans reflect statements made by the company and are shared for informational purposes.

The post Meet the Future of Family Skincare: Oliveda’s Revolutionary Waterless Collection for Babies & Moms appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

That’s why I was excited to discover Oliveda F82 Green Retinol Face Elixir—a waterless formula that combines plant-powered innovation with Oliveda’s signature olive tree beauty philosophy.

Unlike many conventional retinol products, F82 is designed to deliver visible results while supporting your skin with nutrient-rich botanical ingredients.

What Makes F82 Green Retinol Different?

Most skincare products are made primarily with water.

Oliveda takes a completely different approach by replacing water with its antioxidant-rich olive leaf beauty elixir, creating a concentrated formula that nourishes the skin while delivering active ingredients more effectively.

Another standout feature is that F82 uses bakuchiol, a plant-based retinol alternative that’s known for providing retinol-like benefits while being gentler on the skin.

If you’re looking for smoother, healthier-looking skin without the harsh side effects often associated with traditional retinol, F82 is an excellent option to explore.

Benefits of Oliveda F82 Green Retinol Face Elixir

✨ Helps soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

✨ Supports smoother, more refined skin texture

✨ Brightens the look of uneven skin tone

✨ Encourages firmer, healthier-looking skin

✨ Helps improve overall radiance

✨ Features a waterless formula powered by antioxidant-rich olive tree beauty elixir

✨ Uses plant-based bakuchiol for a gentler retinol experience

How Often Should You Use F82?

This is one of the most common questions people ask—and one of the biggest mistakes many beginners make.

More is not better when it comes to retinol.

Instead of using F82 every night, it’s best to start every three days (about 2–3 nights per week). This allows your skin to adjust gradually while minimizing irritation and excessive skin turnover.

As your skin builds tolerance, you can decide whether increasing frequency is appropriate based on your skin’s response.

Consistency always beats overuse.

How to Apply F82 Green Retinol Face Elixir

Follow this evening routine for the best results:

1. Cleanse and tone your skin.
2. Apply your waterless serums.
3. Apply your eye cream.
4. Wait until your skin is completely dry.
5. Apply a pea-sized amount of F82 Green Retinol Face Elixir to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
6. Finish with a nourishing moisturizer to lock in hydration.

Retinol Alternatives Within the Oliveda Collection

Not every skin concern requires the same active ingredient. Oliveda offers several nighttime elixirs designed for different skincare goals.

F65 Midnight Elixir

Perfect for:

• Dry skin
• Mature skin
• Extra nourishment overnight

Suggested use: Every three nights to start.

Pairs well with: F59.

F87 Kahai Elixir

Ideal for:

• Hyperpigmentation
• Dark spots
• Uneven skin tone

Suggested use: Every three days, morning or evening.

Pairs well with: F83.

F82 Green Retinol Face Elixir

Best for:

• Fine lines
• Texture concerns
• Early signs of aging
• Overall skin renewal

Suggested use: Every three days to begin.

Pairs well with: F83 or F59.

Beginner Tips

If you’re new to retinol—or bakuchiol-based skincare—keep these tips in mind:

✔ Start slowly by using it every three days.

✔ Use only a pea-sized amount.

✔ Apply only to dry skin.

✔ Always wear SPF during the day, as retinol products can increase sun sensitivity.

✔ Be patient. Healthy skin takes consistency, not overnight miracles.

Why I Love It

One of my favorite things about Oliveda F82 Green Retinol Face Elixir is how luxurious it feels without feeling harsh.

The waterless formula leaves my skin feeling nourished rather than stripped, and I appreciate that it’s powered by olive tree ingredients instead of relying heavily on fillers.

I also love that it’s beginner-friendly. Starting every three days made it easy to introduce into my routine without overwhelming my skin.

For me, skincare isn’t just about correcting imperfections—it’s about creating healthy habits that support beautiful skin for years to come.

Have you tried Oliveda F82 Green Retinol Face Elixir? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments! 🌿

Get your bottle here: Oliveda F82 Green Retinol Face Elixir

The post Why I Added Oliveda F82 Green Retinol Elixir to My Evening Skincare Routine appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

F77 Olive Matcha Face Mask

Powered by olive tree antioxidants and formulated without water, these masks deliver concentrated ingredients that help support healthy, radiant skin.

F18 Black Olive Face Mask

Purify • Detoxify • Renew

If your skin feels congested, oily, or in need of a reset, the Black Olive Face Mask is a wonderful weekly treatment.

Best for:

• Combination skin
• Oily skin
• Enlarged pores
• Congested or dull complexions

Benefits:
✔ Deeply purifies and detoxifies
✔ Helps minimize the appearance of pores
✔ Absorbs excess oil
✔ Leaves skin feeling smooth and refreshed

This is me applying the F18 Black Olive Face Mask

I love reaching for this mask when my skin needs a fresh start and a deep cleanse.

F76 Honey Enzyme Face Mask

Exfoliate • Brighten • Hydrate

The Honey Enzyme Face Mask is perfect when my skin looks dull or needs a little extra glow. It combines gentle fruit enzymes with nourishing ingredients to leave skin soft and radiant.

Best for:

• Dry skin
• Mature skin
• Uneven texture
• Dull complexions

Benefits:
✔ Gently exfoliates dead skin cells
✔ Improves texture and radiance
✔ Hydrates and softens
✔ Reveals smoother, glowing skin

Applying the F76 Honey Enzyme Face Mask

This is one of my favorites before special occasions because it gives such a beautiful glow.

F77 Olive Matcha Face Mask

Calm • Protect • Revitalize

When my skin feels stressed or sensitive, I love using the Olive Matcha Face Mask. Rich in antioxidants, it helps soothe and replenish while protecting the skin from environmental stressors.

Best for:

• Sensitive skin
• Redness-prone skin
• Stressed or mature skin

Benefits:
✔ Rich in antioxidant protection
✔ Helps calm redness and irritation
✔ Supports the skin barrier
✔ Leaves skin refreshed and glowing

It’s the perfect self-care treatment when your skin needs comfort and nourishment.

Enjoying my F77 Face Mask

My Favorite Way to Use Them

Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, taking 10–15 minutes for yourself is enough to reset both your skin and your mind.

• Need a detox? Choose the Black Olive Face Mask.
• Want instant glow? Reach for the Honey Enzyme Face Mask.
• Need calming nourishment? The Olive Matcha Face Mask is your answer.

Whichever one you choose, these waterless formulas turn skincare into a beautiful ritual—and I love having all three in my routine.
SHOP THE CREAMS HERE AT OLIVEDA

The post Oliveda Face Masks: Which One Is Right for Your Skin? 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

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.

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