2025 Recap + Life Update

A Life Update: Closing the Chapter on 2025

Wheww where do I even begin? 2025 was a year. And if I’m being completely honest, it’s one I would have skipped if I could. That feels strange to admit, especially after how full and joyful 2024 was. But life has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect them, and this year delivered a few I wasn’t prepared for. Still, there were plenty of bright moments and highlights to be grateful for!

Something I kept coming back to throughout the year was the Chinese horoscope. 2025, the Year of the Snake, is said to be about shedding, releasing, and clearing space. Looking back, that feels incredibly accurate. What was heavy, misaligned, or no longer real slowly fell away, even when I resisted it. There was discomfort in that process, but also truth.

Numerology echoed a similar theme. 2025 was a 9 year, symbolizing endings, completion, surrender, and letting go. It was never meant to be a year of pushing forward at full speed. It was a year of closing chapters. In contrast, 2026 marks a 1 year in numerology, representing beginnings, fresh starts, self-discovery, and a blank slate. And in the Chinese zodiac, 2026 is the Year of the Horse, a time associated with movement, confidence, momentum, and aligned action. Doors opening. Forward motion.

As uncomfortable as it was at times, 2025 forced me to slow down, be present, and truly ground myself. Keep reading for the full recap!

blonde girl on computer

Slowing Down & Reconnecting

One of the most meaningful shifts this year was reconnecting with my faith. I started attending church again, and it’s been incredibly grounding – a safe space that encourages reflection, humility, and growth. I’ve had to take a hard look in the mirror, learn a few lessons about myself, and realize something that had been missing from my life. Alongside that came journaling, practicing daily gratitude, and reevaluating some of my closest relationships, all healthy, necessary work.

I also started a new hobby this year: run club. Which I absolutely love. It’s become something I genuinely look forward to every single week — a mix of movement, community, and a challenge that keeps me coming back.

Celebrations Big & Small

On the fun side of life, 2025 was filled with celebrations. I attended three bachelorettes and three weddings — Big White, Penticton, and Calgary…each one unique and memorable in its own way. After a few years of back-to-back bachelorettes and weddings, I think I may finally be stepping out of wedding season! For the first time in a while, there are none on the calendar for the year ahead.

Travel Highlights

Travel was another major highlight! I went to Europe on what truly felt like the trip of a lifetime. Italy and Greece were both incredible, but I’m eager to return to Greece. (You can read the full travel recap here.) Closer to home, I squeezed in a few favourite getaways, including a cozy winter escape to Rock Creek, a weekend in Vancouver, and a relaxing Summerland staycation.

I also have a few more trips planned for 2025, which I’m really looking forward to sharing with you!

greece

Professional Update

Professionally, this year was a big one. I completed a full rebrand and launched a new website — something that took nearly the entire year but was so worth it. The result feels clean, minimal, and much more aligned with where I’m at now. It reflects a more mature version of my brand, and I couldn’t be happier with it! Read about it here.

I’ve also been intentionally stepping back from sharing so much of my personal life online. While Instagram still shows parts of both my work and life, I’m choosing to be more private. I stopped posting on TikTok entirely, and that boundary has felt really good.

One unexpected surprise this year was winning Bronze for Best of Kelowna Now, especially since I didn’t promote it at all. A quiet milestone, but a meaningful one. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote for me for Best Kelowna Influencer!

Another small but important shift this year was stopping the use of filters on my stories. I used to rely on them on no-makeup days, but letting that go felt like a quiet step toward showing up more honestly and comfortably as myself. What you see is what you get when you see me online!

If 2025 taught me anything, it’s this: I know exactly who I am and what I want. If something doesn’t align with my values, my energy, or my vision, personally or professionally, I don’t entertain it. That clarity has carried into my business as well. I’m incredibly grateful to have a solid, aligned core group of clients who trust me and value the work I do. That alone makes everything feel worth it!

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Top 5 Blog Posts

Here are my five most-read blog posts of 2025. If you’d like new posts delivered straight to your inbox, you can subscribe here.

Top 5 Reels

Here are my top five reels of 2025. Are we surprised they’re all food-related? I’m not 😂

  • Rocket Subs – My most viewed reel of the year! Perfect for a quick, flavour-packed sub with fresh, satisfying ingredients.
  • Komorebi – I couldn’t get enough of this spot this summer. Their Lavender Cold Foam Matcha is a must-try. Slow down and enjoy Japanese-inspired drinks and bites in a cozy, calming atmosphere.
  • Kin & Folk – Obsessed with their bao buns. A welcoming spot serving thoughtfully crafted dishes that feel both comforting and elevated.
  • Wilding – Seasonal, locally inspired plates that celebrate creativity and connection.
  • The Baker’s Corner – Treat yourself to freshly baked goods and classic comfort baked to perfection.

2025 Favourite Restaurants

These are some of my top choices for restaurants this year!

  • Zabb Thai – One of my fave spots for takeout, bold and flavourful Thai. I love all their dishes, but my go-to? The massaman curry with tofu, plus a side of their house hot sauce. My friends and I ordered this a lot this year!
  • Ramen Arashi – Another go-to for me and my friends! These comforting ramen bowls never disappoint. I always order the spicy tonkotsu, swapping the pork belly for chicken karaage.
  • Dozo – My favourite sushi spot, a hidden gem tucked away in Glenmore.
  • Dawett – Classic Indian flavours I’ve loved since childhood. A true go-to for comfort food with incredible spices.
  • Roma Nord Bistro – Authentic Italian cuisine with delicious, house-made pasta. I celebrated my birthday here this year!
  • Derricks Steakhouse – Perfect for special occasions. Don’t skip their table-side Caesar salad!
  • Kin & Folk – Bold Asian-inspired flavours, locally sourced ingredients, and a cozy open-kitchen vibe. Always order the bao buns and a margarita—they never disappoint.
kin and folk kelowna

Looking Ahead

2025 wasn’t easy, but it shaped me in ways I didn’t know I needed. And as I look ahead, I’m carrying the lessons, not the weight, into what’s next.

Thank you for following along! I’m so grateful for this community and for those of you who continue to support my work, read along, and show up here. Your support never goes unnoticed. Cheers to 2026!

-Jenna xoxo