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Have you thought about your travel bucket list? A new year is the perfect time to re-visit and maybe re-map yours with some unique Pacific Northwest travel ideas.
Because while you may have visited Victoria, the San Juan Islands, Vancouver, and Seattle — have you actually seen and done everything? Chances are, there are quite a few unique Pacific Northwest travel ideas that you haven’t yet explored.
Escape the hustle and bustle with a relaxing getaway and discover that there are a plethora of fun things to do this winter in the San Juan Islands.
Winter is known as the ‘slow season’ in the San Juan Islands. And while the potential for a winter storm may leave you hesitant to visit, this quaint region still has their welcome mat rolled out. In fact, winter can be one of the best times to plan your San Juan Islands getaway.
During the winter, you’ll have the hiking trails mostly to yourself. Shop owners have the freedom to linger and talk. Indulge in a spa date. Savor local wines. And, spend time outdoors without worrying about freezing temperatures — the San Juans have an average daily temp of 46-48 degrees December through January!
One of the beauties of winter is how quiet and serene the local parks tend to be. It’s the perfect time to stroll at your own pace through the wind-swept grasslands on San Juan Island’s South Beach Hiking Trail. Visit Cascade Falls on Orcas Island to see how the water roars thanks to the late-season drizzle. Or explore one of these fabulous San Juan Island day hikes.
Throughout the San Juan Islands you’ll notice the rocky beaches are strewn with massive old-growth forest driftwood. Locals and visitors will often use these logs to construct rudimentary beach huts or makeshift chairs. The wood is also a reminder of the dramatic storms that crash onto the shores, as the waves bring the massive pieces from the ocean’s depth. A winter storm is a stunning sight to behold — especially if you select a hotel or resort with a waterfront view!
Want to give your feet a rest? Consider a trail ride on a beautiful horse through the quiet forests. Horseshu Ranch offers riding lessons and scenic forest trail rides, providing the perfect winter activity.
In the heart of Eastsound, Orcas Island native, Cole Sisson and his wife Stephanie run Doe Bay Wine Co. The quaint wine shop offers an exquisite collection of carefully curated wine. The couple also frequently offers wine tastings — a guided exploration of their favorite picks that day.
Founded in 1967 to study the region’s beloved Southern Resident orcas, The Whale Museum is located in downtown Friday Harbor. It overlooks the marina, capitalizing on the view with a porthole window and binoculars. While visiting, you’ll also be able to learn about many of the other local inhabitants like seals and grey whales.
Rosario Resort’s historic Moran Mansion is beautiful in its own right. But it’s made even more so by the 1913 Aeolian pipe organ and 1900 Steinway grand piano. Saturdays during the winter discover the musical prowess of these two beautiful instruments during a free concert. Concerts are led by accomplished musician, author, and Rosario historian, Christian Peacock. They include both musical performances and a historic narrative.
Lopez Island is fondly known as ‘Slowpez,’ thanks to its leisurely pace — even by island standards. For bikers, the gently rolling topography and stunning water-front roads offer the ideal place for a ride.
This brilliant Harry Potter-inspired attraction is a fun and interactive 60-minute test of your wits. Participants enter the escape room in groups of four and use their problem-solving skills to answer riddles and find clues that will help them unlock their own escape!
The San Juan Islands Museum of Art (SJIMA) features rotating exhibitions in its three galleries. The theme of the exhibitions can range widely — allowing you to immerse yourself within regional and world-wide art that inspires you to think beyond yourself.
Tucked in a non-descript section of Lopez Village, the tiny Japanese eatery Setsunai is dishing up hearty bowls of ramen year-round. It’s not the kind of hearty goodness you would expect to find in a region where seafood rules, but the made-to-order bowls are out of this world.
Want your island getaway to include some lively fun? Make sure to stop by Orcas Island’s The Lower Tavern on Friday nights where locals and visitors gather for a lively round of karaoke.
While dinner out and a dozen roses are nice, a quiet getaway is the ultimate in perfection. And, there’s no better place to cuddle up with your someone special than in the San Juans!
In a variety of delectable flavors and sizes, Brown Bear Baking on Orcas Island serves pastries worthy of praise.
Love solving puzzles and riddles? Test your wits at Elusion — Orcas Island’s escape room, where you’ll have to solve your way to freedom.
There’s more to Rosario Resort than its picturesque setting. Moran Mansion is home to both a 1913 Aeolian pipe organ and a 1900 Steinway grand piano, where free public concerts are regularly offered.
San Juan Island is rich with great scenery, both ashore and at sea. And with its temperate climate, it’s the perfect place to hike year-round.
Here the borders are oceans and the dress code is casual—think fleece, jeans and Birkenstocks—rests a constantly changing archipelago. Depending on the tide, as many as 743 islands and reefs dot the water throughout the San Juan Islands. The ebb and flow of the landscape adds to the mystic of this sunny destination.
Located in the Olympic Mountain Rain Shadow, the San Juans are graced with an average 250 days with sunshine. Hiking here is glorious, especially on San Juan Island. The terrain varies from lush forest and rolling prairie to rocky beaches and steep cliffs. The island’s coastline and peaks feature breathtaking views of the snowcapped Olympic Mountains, old growth forests, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca’s expansive waterway.
The habitats are untouched and home to a wide variety of wildlife. Bird watching here is a favorite. You might witness eagles mating, swallows feeding their young or an osprey perched on its nest. The star attraction is the killer whale. And while there are many options for whale watching tours, there’s at least one land-based hike that rivals many on-the-water experiences. So depending on what you want from your day hike experience—stunning views, unspoiled nature or up close wildlife— San Juan Island likely offers it. This is largely thanks to the death of a pig.
The large stretches of undeveloped coastline on San Juan Island can be attributed to an 1859 pig slaying. It nearly resulted in an American-British war. In response to the dispute, both the Americans and the English established encampments on the island’s prime lookouts. Today, the two locales are known as American Camp and English Camp. Each is home to historic remnants, such as garrisons and graveyards, of their former inhabitants. In 2013, the United States recognized the expansive stretch of both camps (and several other locations throughout the San Juan Islands) as a national monument, thus further preserving the coastline for future generations. Encompassing a total of 955 acres, the monument spans as far north as Patos Island and is known as the San Juan Islands National Monument. It is here that many of the island’s best hikes are found.
At San Juan Island’s southernmost tip, Cattle Point Lighthouse offers sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This iconic structure was completed in 1935, but a navigational beacon has stood on the glacier-scraped rock since 1888.
It’s named after the cattle that roamed the point’s rocky grassland in 1853. They were brought by when the Hudson’s Bay Company which established a ranch on the south end of the island to feed its employees. The trail winds through windswept grassy dunes and culminates at the lighthouse. Look for blacktail deer, eagles, seals, and sea lions.
Open from dawn to dusk, trail maps are available at the San Juan Island National Historical Park visitor center.
Roughly half a mile roundtrip, the Afterglow Vista trail winds through an old cemetery. Its gentle ascent culminates in a massive mausoleum, the final resting place of the McMillin family. (The mausoleum was designed by the family’s patriarch, John S. McMillin, who founded Roche Harbor Lime and Cement Company in 1886.)
After walking through the cemetery you’ll eventually reach the McMillin mausoleum, now referred to as Roche Harbor Mausoleum. The mausoleum is marked by a high arching gate labeled, “Afterglow Vista.” Just beyond its border is the McMillin family tomb encircled by massive pillars. At its center, limestone chairs surround a large limestone table. Each seat holds the cremated ashes of a McMillin family member. The location is rumored to be haunted. Don’t worry.
The trail is only open dawn to dusk. Trail maps are available at the resort’s Hotel de Haro.
As a sequel to your Cattle Point Lighthouse jaunt, the 3½-mile Mount Finlayson trail offers an overlooking view of the lighthouse and its sweeping grasslands. The 285-foot elevation gain begins gently with a forest of wind-defying twisted firs on your left. On your right, the majestic Olympic Mountain Range takes center stage.
It was here an American shot and killed a Hudson’s Bay pig, which was rooting in his garden. This event triggered the infamous Pig War between the British and United States that never did take place. Keep an eye out while you hike.
This is one of the island’s best bird watching locations. Frequent visitors include eagles, plovers, sandpipers, and hawks. The trail is open from dawn to dusk.
If you find yourself on San Juan Island with a desire to spot an Orca, the short hike on Lime Kiln State Park is a must stop. This is generally recognized as one of the best land-based whale watching locations in the world. While most folks visit for the whales, the park’s namesake—a wood-fired kiln located at its northern edge—shouldn’t be overlooked.
The trail, totaling 1¼ miles, begins at the park’s lower parking lot. Follow the signs to the lighthouse for a chance to see orcas at play. The trail leads you through large grassy meadows interspersed with evergreens and madrona trees. It takes you over rocky bluffs, offering glimpses of the sandy shoreline below. Ultimately, it brings you to the lighthouse, which sits atop Lime Kiln Point, a rocky outcropping overlooking Dead Man’s Bay on San Juan Island. Established in 1919, the lighthouse is still in operation guiding ships through Haro Strait. Spend some time with a good pair of binoculars looking for whales. And, don’t be surprised when the whales pass close to shore. Eventually, you’ll want to follow the trail north to the kiln. A set of steep stairs leads to the kiln’s base, offering you a closer look.
The park is open from 8 am to dusk. For additional information, visit the park’s interpretive center located by the parking lot.
Young Hill’s 650-foot crest is English Camp’s crown jewel. It offers a grand view of Haro Straight and the placid waters surrounding Bell Point.
The two-mile roundtrip hike begins at the large English Camp parking area. Take the gentle climb east through a Doug-fir and madrona forest. After the switchback, you’ll emerge at the edge of a grassy ledge. There, Victoria and the Gulf Islands will spill out before you. It is recommended you explore English Camp to learn about its history, why it was created, and its historical role in the relationship between England and the United States. Here, you’ll also be treated to some of the island’s most incredible views.
The trail is open from dawn to 11 pm. For additional information and a trail map, visit the English Camp Visitor Center during the summer months.
Stunning views and fewer crowds make Turtleback Mountain a fabulous alternative to the sometimes-crowded hikes at Orcas Island’s Moran State Park.
Spanning 1,578 acres, Turtleback Mountain Preserve is a newer addition to the island’s trails. It was originally owned by the Chairman of the Weyerhaeuser company. But in 2006 it was purchased by a group of conservation groups including the San Juan Preservation Trust.
Since then, a relatively primitive trail system has been developed totally more than 8 miles of trails and two trailheads. The two sides of the mountain have decidedly different looks. At the north end, former logging roads offer exceptional mountain biking and trail running.
The casual hiker generally prefers the south end, where easy-to-moderate elevation gains and breathtaking views abound — like the 2.9-mile Ship Peak Loop.
Start from the southern parking lot and head through the ravine. After you cross a creek, the trail will split. Head to the left, taking the Lost Oak Trail. (While it’s a loop, this direction allows you to get the steeper climb out of the way first.)
This section will take you under a canopy of Douglas firs, madrones, and Garry oaks. At .7 miles you’ll reach a bench with a viewpoint of West Sound. As you continue climbing the South Trail, you’ll be treated to expanding views of Salt Spring, Lopez, San Juan Island, and the Olympic Mountains.
At 1.2 miles you’ll reach the West Overlook. This was formerly the site of a home, but it’s now outfitted with a bench. During the spring, the grounds around you will be flooded with camas lilies. But year-round, this is a spectacular destination for sunsets.
Continue along the trail, gradually descending to a signed junction. Wander through the mature forest, past an old fence and several trees before taking the steep descend into a thick forest. Continuing on, you’ll come to the original junction. Stay to the left to reach the trailhead.
Now through November 9, 2019 — indulge in the best of the islands at the 12th annual Savor the San Juans.
Fall is in full swing and the San Juans recently kicked off one of our favorite events — Savor the San Juans. From wine tastings and beer fests to farm tours and exquisite multi-course dinners, this yearly event delights the palate. Discover the top seven reasons we look forward to a food-filled island getaway:
Throughout the summer, the islands buzz with locals and visitors. Shop keepers, chefs, vintners, and artists are constantly going full tilt to keep up with demand. As fall hits and the summer rush subsides, the islands slow down. There’s more time for lingering chats, giving you an opportunity to ask questions and get to know the unique residents.
The San Juan Islands average 247 with sunshine. That’s nearly double the number of sunny days here in Seattle. This is thanks t the fact that the San Juans are tucked at the heard of the Olympic Rain Shadow. So if you’re in need of some Vitamin D, a bit of island time is just the ticket.
Though still sunnier than Seattle, fall does bring a bit of rain. This is a fact for which we are grateful. Because the rain does wonders for the San Juan Islands’ natural habitat as the golden-brown hillsides give way to green. The trees turn and the pumpkins grow plump. It’s a stunning sight to behold.
The remote nature of the San Juan Islands makes farm-to-table cooking a necessity for chefs. For patrons, this means menus loaded with fresh ingredients. And during the fall, when crowds don’t require restaurants to turn tables quite so quickly, chefs can flex their creative muscles.
During Savor the San Juans, chefs and vintners often work together to create impeccable wine pairings. Doe Bay Wine Company and Outlook Inn are co-hosting a guided wine tasting with sommelier Cole Sisson. Coho chefs Ryan Lockhart and Tim Payne are creating an exquisite Italian-focused five-course menu with optional wine pairing.
With the culmination of the summer rush, many of the island’s hotels and bed-and-breakfasts offer lower rates. From discounts to free nights, fall is a great time to visit the San Juans for less.
From a lively food festival, Bite of the San Juans, to inspiring film festivals, the San Juans will host a wide variety of inspirational events for both the mind and the spirit. There are farm tours on Lopez Island, Orcas Island, and San Juan Island. And, you’ll be treated to a plethora of farmers’ markets, community parades, and tea events.
Who wants to fight traffic or wait for the ferry? Don’t waste time. Start your vacation on the dock. It’s just a 45-minute scenic flight to San Juan Island, Orcas Island and Lopez Island from Seattle. Plus, our Lower Fall Fares to the San Juan Islands start October 1!
The exciting seventh annual Friday Harbor Film Festival, to be held Oct. 25-27, 2019 on San Juan Island, will screen 31 new documentary films, 23 short films, and a selection of films produced by student filmmakers. Films will be shown in six venues, all within an easy walk from the ferry landing, airport, and port.
Special events include the Opening Night Filmmakers Gala, during which the Andrew V. McLaglen Lifetime Achievement Award will be awarded to Paul G. Allen for his extraordinary achievements in documentary filmmaking through his company, Vulcan Productions. The informal Filmmakers Forum will be held Saturday morning.
The Festival closes on Sunday night with the Audience Choice Awards, honoring the best films. The Local Hero Award will be presented to Joe Gaydos, founder of the SeaDoc Society. The László Pal Emerging Filmmaker Award will be presented to a promising young filmmaker, whose winning film be screened.
Each year the Festival invites dedicated, talented filmmakers to showcase their documentary films’ unique ability to entertain, inspire, and enlighten audiences while encouraging students to learn the art storytelling through film.
It takes a small village to produce the Festival, which depends on the dedication of a group of extremely committed friends and neighbors who devote their time and energy to the event. They believe in the importance of conveying important and meaningful stories through film, as well as discussions with the filmmakers themselves.
The Festival is offering an Early Bird Festival Pass that provides priority seating, access to all venues and screenings, and one ticket to the opening night Gala for $175. Save $25 by purchasing it at FHFF.org. where full details about this year’s Festival are posted.
Plan Your Friday Harbor Getaway
If you’re San Juan bound, don’t miss your chance to snap a selfie by these epic lookouts, historic sites, and cute creatures!
247 average days with sunshine, a reputation for wholesome fun, and more than 6 places to get freshly made pastries all make Friday Harbor is the ultimate kid-friendly getaway destination that the whole family will love.
With the sun on your face and two wheels at your command, San Juan Island is yours to explore – as fast or as slow as one of Susie’s Mopeds will take you.
What makes a farmer trade her pitchfork for a soldering torch? One word: passion. That’s what fuels everything minimalist jewelry artist Jessie Morrow does. And it shows in her work.
But jewelry wasn’t the original plan. An advocate for sustainable agriculture, Jessie moved to Orcas Island in 2006 to work at the Olga Farm. Somewhere between the carrots and the peas, she started envisioning earrings and necklaces.
Initially, she fashioned pieces from hardware parts, wearing them during her island comings and goings. Friends, family, and fellow islanders took notice. “People wanted what I was making, and eventually the business just grew from there,” Jessie told me.
To bear hug is to envelop with love. It’s fitting David Ellertsen and Lee Hirswill posted a sign on their kitchen’s exit that reads, “Until We Meet Again – Bear Hugs”.
That’s what the partners are dishing up at Brown Bear Baking, their Orcas Island bakery. In a variety of delectable flavors and sizes, David and Lee share a big hug and lots of love with each person who visits.
When they opened in 2013, their menu featured just seven items – including their signature pecan sticky bun. Nearly the size of a dinner plate, this monstrosity borders on dessert with its nut-crusted top and soft interior.
Today, the locally owned and operated bakery is more café-esc in its offerings. The scratch-made menu has been expanded to include a seasonally-inspired collection of hearty soups and sandwiches. The fellas are even pickling their own veggies!
Formerly residing in Las Vegas, baking was initially just a passion for the two men. David and Lee, previously an architect and creative director respectively, spent their vacations at the San Francisco Baking Institute. “We took classes a week at a time because that’s what we could manage with work,” explained David as he pulled a tray of Brown Butter Toffee Cookies from the oven.
With an open-kitchen concept, the aroma of the cookies engulfed the entire restaurant and slipped outside onto the sidewalk. Pedestrians passing paused to breathe a little deeper. David smiled at the eight-inch diameter cookies. And, I tried to calm my growling tummy.
If you want your pick of pastries, I strongly recommend arriving early in the day – especially during the summer. It’s not uncommon for the pastry case to quickly sell out. Come for your morning coffee. (They make a great pour with Victrola coffee, locally roasted in Seattle.) Snag a slice of their rich quiche. (The egg-cream pies are loaded with vegetarian and meat options.) Then finish off your meal with a sweet treat, like one of their delicate aux amandes or seasonal apple gallettes.
Book your tip to Orcas Island!
In a sun-dappled forest grove, a fresh-water creek tumbles down the 40-foot rock cliff and runs beneath fallen tree trunks.
There’s more to Rosario Resort than its picturesque setting. Moran Mansion is home to both a 1913 Aeolian pipe organ and a 1900 Steinway grand piano, where free public concerts are regularly offered.
Low-key adventures loaded with scenic views and an internationally acclaimed food and wine scene, make Orcas Island the ideal testosterone-free, comfy jean destination.
Slow-paced island life, farm-to-table cuisine, and intimate accommodations make the San Juan Islands the perfect romantic escape this winter.
From Lopez and Orcas to Roche Harbor and Friday Harbor, discover some of our favorite romantic places to cuddle up with your someone special.
Just steps from the Friday Harbor Marina, this quaint B&B is tucked in a quiet residential neighborhood. Owned and operated in conjunction with Harrison House Suites, the Tucker House Inn’s labyrinth of Victorian buildings and cottages were built in 1898. The elegant architecture is matched by beautifully cared for grounds – which feature delectable edibles like a blueberry bush and fresh herbs. Eco-friendly and pet-friendly, this idyllic destination is particularly well known for its two-course breakfast served each morning of your stay.
Located two blocks from the Friday Harbor seaplane dock, the Friday Harbor House offers a modern twist to seaside lodging. Each room features an oversized Jacuzzi and gas fireplace. Fidalgo Bay Coffee is freshly ground and put in your room on your arrival, so you can enjoy a cup of pour-over jo without even leaving your room. The inn’s exquisite restaurant boasts water views and a selection of authentic San Juan Island cuisine.
Take a moment to reground yourselves in the simplicity of Mother Nature’s tones mimicking the earth, sun, sea, and sky. The indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna are perfect for a dip and steam together. But the real star here is the on-site Day Spa, which offers a variety of traditional and hot stone massages, wraps, facials, and foot therapies.
Tucked beside Cascade Bay, Rosario Resort’s elegant craftsman style mansion was finished in 1909. Built by Seattle shipbuilder and Mayor Robert Moran, it is richly appointed with elegant woodwork, a 1,972-pipe organ, and a 1900 Steinway Grand Piano. Complimentary concerts take place Saturdays at 4:00 PM. The performances are breathtakingly beautiful. And be sure to make a reservation at the Mansion Restaurant, where renowned chef Raymond Southern is putting modern twists on old classics.
On the Northern end of San Juan Island, where the water is calm and the cellphone service is sometimes spotty, rests Roche Harbor Resort. Once a lime kiln factory, this elegant estate is now a favorite destination for leisurely travelers and boaters. It offers a plethora of outdoor activities ranging from kayaking to hiking. During the summer, its cobblestone walks bustle with activity as visitors meander through manicured gardens and savor donuts fresh from the fryer. While the summer is nice, the quiet of winter makes this a favorite for those who want to cuddle close and enjoy an upscale prime rib dinner, where the house-made horseradish will wow your taste buds.
Don’t arrive planning to binge-watch your favorite sitcom on a big screen TV. The Edenwild Boutique Inn is a TV free zone. While they do offer complimentary WiFi, this Lopez Island gem is best designed for unplugging. Its spacious rooms feature full baths and unique amenities like large soaking tubs and wood burning fireplaces. Mornings start with scratch baked goodies, fresh fruit parfaits, and Lopez Island coffee. Bike and kayak rentals are available on site for those who wish to explore. But with the wraparound porch and stunning ocean views, you may just want to cuddle up and never leave!
This stylish, contemporary inn is located in an 1869 renovated farmhouse. Just one mile from Eastsound, the inn is nestled by the idyllic waters of Ship Bay and overlooks Madrona Point. The restaurant is of particular note. Known for its use of high quality, sustainably sourced ingredients, its seasonal menu changes regularly. And, its freshly baked sourdough is proofed from a starter that’s over 100 years old.
Located at the southern end of Lopez Island, MacKaye Harbor Inn was formerly home to a sea captain. The view pays homage to its first owner with striking views of the sea. The rooms are cheerfully furnished with golden-oak and brass details. Breakfast includes house specialties, such as Finish pancakes. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to reserve the Harbor Suite, you’ll be treated to a private bath, deck, and fireplace.
Tucked at the edge of Eastsound, the Outlook Inn is just steps from some of Orcas Island’s best novelty shops, bakeries, and restaurants. Its waterfront location offers views of Fishing Bay and Indian Island. The staff is known for being exceptionally friendly. And, the inn’s restaurant, New Leaf Café, is praised for its unpretentious elegance and sea-to-table cuisine.
Located just a short walk from the Friday Harbor Marina, Bird Rock Hotel offers a boutique small town experience. Praised for its comfort and charm, this elegant hotel’s historic exterior is complemented by its modern interior which features upscale amenities such as Jacuzzi suites and harbor views.
Doe Bay gives ‘rustic’ a new name. While their seaside cottages and yurts may not be the most refined resort experience you’ll ever have, this idyllic destination has a charm that’s unparalleled. A visit to their clothing optional spa is enough to make anyone relax – especially with its water views. And, let’s not forget about the restaurant where the seed-to-table cuisine will blow your mind with its incredible flavors.
Doe Bay on Orcas Island has long been known for its unique laid-back vibe. But this idyllic destination is as equally prized for its unpretentious, seed-to-table cuisine.
If you’re San Juan bound, don’t miss your chance to snap a selfie by these epic lookouts, historic sites, and cute creatures!
In a variety of delectable flavors and sizes, Brown Bear Baking on Orcas Island serves pastries worthy of praise.
With its craftsman style exterior and 1,972 pipe organ, Rosario Resort has often been praised for its old world elegance. But since 2016, Raymond Southern took over the kitchen and the buzz surrounding this historic site has been a bit more edible.
Kara Navradszky was just three-years-old when she made her first piece of living jewelry. Little did she know her passion for daisy chain necklaces would transform into a boutique floral design and jewelry business.
Home-based in Friday Harbor, Kara specializes in ‘wearables’ — elegant jewelry featuring living florals. Her first formal foray into floral jewelry was during high school art class. She learned to make haku hair wreaths — a Hawaiian flower crown.
After earning her Bachelor’s in Anthropology from the University of Washington, Kara continued her floral education. While teaching English in Japan, she also studied Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging.
But the path from flower class to floral jewelry designer wasn’t a direct one. Kara first sailed the Pacific Coast from Seattle to Mexico, became a surf instructor, fell in love, got married, moved to Friday Harbor, and had her first baby. (She and her husband, Emmet Sherwood, are now the proud parents of two adorable toddlers.)
But her artistic enthusiasm for flowers never ceased. In 2015, Kara began making flower crowns for little girls at Roche Harbor. “The problem was, the flowers were so perishable. So, I started researching opportunities for something that was less perishable. That’s when I found succulents,” said Kara.
The succulents were a game changer. Using a non-toxic glue, Kara mounts the plants in a moss bed attached to a piece of jewelry. Her ornate bracelets, necklaces, and crowns are fitted with flowers from Kara’s own garden.
Through word-of-mouth and her Instagram account (@apothecadesign), pieces are generally commissioned to recognize a milestone, such as a graduation, marriage or new baby. “I love that each piece I create is designed to celebrate an individual. I spend a lot of time thinking about who’s giving the gift and who’s receiving the gift,” Kara explained.
As the name suggests, living jewelry continues to grow. Pieces remain photo ready for roughly two weeks, but can often be worn for up to two months. By that time, the plants outgrow their platform. The jewelry can then become an elegant bedside arrangement. Sections of the succulent can be broken off and replanted. Or the wearable art can be reassembled to create a new piece.
That’s one of the things Kara loves most about her work — it’s lack of permanence. “Flower Art has a fleeting beauty, much like a Buddhist Sand Mandala. It’s meant to be enjoyed in the moment. But what sets living jewelry apart is that each piece has a life of its own,” Kara said.
For a commissioned piece, Kara will spend an hour or so selecting flowers — often from her own garden. “I’ll wander through the garden with a big basket, looking at what’s fresh and what speaks to me,” says Kara.
Depending on who is giving and who is getting one of her pieces, Kara may use succulents, fresh flowers or greenery. Or some a combination of all three!
The plants are mounted on a piece of jewelry that serves as a wearable foundation. Sometimes this is a dipped silver or brushed brass cuff. Other times it may be a headband or delicate string.
To the jewelry, Kara attaches a boss base. Using a non-toxic glue, she attaches the flowers — carefully nestling the living plants beside one another.
It’s always a celebration to give one of her pieces. This summer, MacKenzie Lommel requested several pieces for a photoshoot to celebrate her final trimester.
Kara joined the beautiful mom-to-be and her family for the shoot, helping to ensure the necklace, flower wreath, and moon-inspired flower arrangement were perfectly placed. San Juan Island-based photographer, Cere Demuth captured MacKenzie and her family on the beach — where they shared intimate moments wading in the water and walking along the shore.
This August, you can find Kara and samplings of her work at the 2018 San Juan Summer Arts Festival. Held at Brickworks Brickworks Plaza in Friday Harbor August 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, and 31st.
Check Out Kara’s Work in Person
A practicing psychotherapist and published author, Cere occasionally photographs clients on San Juan Island and Orcas Island. Her work captures the intimate moments and highlight the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Her recently published memoir, The Way We Stay, is an exquisitely told story of heartbreaking love, vulnerability, faith, and healing.
If you’re San Juan bound, don’t miss your chance to snap a selfie by these epic lookouts, historic sites, and cute creatures!
247 average days with sunshine, a reputation for wholesome fun, and more than 6 places to get freshly made pastries all make Friday Harbor is the ultimate kid-friendly getaway destination that the whole family will love.
With the sun on your face and two wheels at your command, San Juan Island is yours to explore – as fast or as slow as one of Susie’s Mopeds will take you.
Windswept grasslands and breathtaking views make the southernmost tip of San Juan Island the perfect location for a day hike.
