About

Holly Bea Adair is the founder of Central Stem, a Philadelphia-based concept that brings people together through immersive gatherings, thoughtful retail, and a deep appreciation for craft. Originally from Mississippi, Holly is known for her hoarding of cookbooks, her love of experimenting with unusual ingredients like okra flour, and her ability to connect people over a lively brunch or potluck dinner.

Holly founded Central Stem in 2024 as a way to blend her passions for purpose-driven business, intentional sourcing, and community connection. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising from the University of Mississippi and brings over 25 years of experience spanning luxury retail, brand development, and creative strategy.

A longtime sustainability advocate, Holly’s proudest professional accomplishment is helping to pioneer infinitely recyclable aluminum packaging in the personal care industry. Her work in brand building has consistently centered on doing business with care—for people, planet, and product.

She’s a big believer in everyday creativity, whether through food, embroidery, or the garden. When she’s not leading Central Stem, Holly serves on the board of PA Fibershed, participates in several book clubs, and enjoys crafting reusable totes by hand.