Jeanie Wylie 17/10/23 Jeanie Wylie 17/10/23

Snacks & Sunsets: Summer Sundowners at Frida’s Field

Starting on November 11th, Frida’s Field is expanding its offering with a Summer Sundowners sitting on Saturday afternoons from 3:30pm. Set up al fresco on the venue’s expansive lawns, guests will enjoy casual snacks and drinks while watching the sun set over the lush pastures, orchard-lined hills and newly-planted 500-tree rainforest regeneration project. Bookings recommended, walk-ins welcome.

Starting on November 11th, Frida’s Field is expanding its offering with a Summer Sundowners sitting on Saturday afternoons from 3:30pm. Set up al fresco with picnic rugs on the venue’s expansive lawns, guests will enjoy casual snacks and drinks while watching the sun set over the lush pastures, orchard-lined hills and newly-planted 500-tree rainforest regeneration project. Think Ploughman’s Plates with house-made terrines, pickles, chutneys, locally-made cheeses and vegetable crudités.

Cheers the spectacular golden hour light, with a range of cocktails comprising local spirits and house-made syrups using Frida’s grown ingredients like lemon myrtle, elderflower, and fresh herbs. Local beers and minimal-intervention wines are also on offer.

Co-founder, Jeanie Wylie, explains – “those few hours around sun set are just the most magical time of day at Frida’s Field. The venue faces North-West, which is the perfect orientation to see the sun setting and capture that incredible golden hour light which makes all the trees and fields sparkle. Our long lunches will always be our signature experience, but we can’t wait to welcome people onto the terrace to enjoy a casual sundowner.”

Immersed in the beauty of nature with views that roll on forever, Summer Sundowners at Frida’s Field showcase the taste of the Northern Rivers at this bountiful time of the year and foster a relaxed and festive atmosphere, as people start to unwind for Christmas and the summer holidays. Bookings are encouraged, but walk-ins welcome.

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Jeanie Wylie 17/10/23 Jeanie Wylie 17/10/23

Chef Ally's Victoria Sponge Cake with Atherton Raspberry Jam Recipe

Making the most of the bounty of native Atherton Raspberries growing in our food forest orchard, Chef Ally created a delicious dessert for our Early Spring Menu - a classic sponge cake with origins in the British Victorian era in the 1800s, filled with a house-made jam of Atherton Raspberries (picked from the farm) and Italian meringue buttercream flavoured with vanilla.

Ingredients

Sponge

Butter -cut into 2cm sq at soft room temp - 165g

Sugar - 160g

Lemon - zest of 1

Eggs - 150g (at room temp)

Plain flour - 150g

Baking Powder- 7g

Salt - 4g

Italian Meringue buttercream

Egg white - 60g

Water - 30g

Sugar - 140g

Butter 180g

Vanilla pod - 2 seeds scraped

Salt - 2g

Atherton Raspberry Jam

Atherton raspberries- 300g

Lemon juice - 40g

Sugar - 80g

Method

Sponge

Set oven to 160oC
Spray 2 x non stick cake tins (20cm), dust with flour
Sift flour and baking powder into a bowl, add salt
In a mixer beat the butter on a medium speed to lighten. Add sugar and zest, beat for a further 4 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl throughout
Gradually add eggs
Remove the bowl from the mixer and fold in the dry ingredients
Divide the cake batter between 2 cake tins
Bake for 20 minutes
Remove from the oven and allow to cook for 10 mins
While still warm, remove sponge from cake tins and flip over topside down on baking paper on a flat surface

Italian Meringue buttercream

Place sugar and water in a saucepan, mix together with a wooden spoon
Place egg whites in electric mixer with whisk attachment
Turn on a medium heat and allow sugar syrup to simmer.
When the temperature hits 115oC turn on mixer to begin whisking
When the sugar reaches 121oC immediately remove from heat and on low speed setting gradually add sugar to the egg whites
Allow to whisk on full speed for 4 mins
Gradually add butter until fully incorporated
Add vanilla seeds
Allow to whisk for a further 3 mins until a smooth shiny texture is achieved
Place mixture into piping bags and leave at tool temperature

Atherton Raspberry Jam

Place raspberries, sugar and lemon juice in a pot and simmer to 104oC
Allow to cool

To compile

With sponges facing presentation side up, spread a layer of Italian meringue buttercream on one.
On the bottom side of the other sponge spread a layer of Atherton raspberry jam
Sandwich sponges together
Dust with icing sugar
Portion and serve with a cup o tea!

Jeanie Wylie 22/8/23 Jeanie Wylie 22/8/23

Top Pre & Post Wedding Activities for Destination Wedding Guests in the Byron Bay Hinterland

Planning a destination wedding not only creates lasting memories but also provides an opportunity for friends and family to embark on an extraordinary adventure together. The Byron Hinterland is the perfect place to create an immersive and enjoyable experience for your friends and family, transforming your wedding into a truly unforgettable celebration with an incredible destination wedding itinerary.

Top pre-wedding activities in the Byron Bay Hinterland

Welcome Drinks & Dinner

Bangalow is the ideal starting point for an unforgettable Byron Hinterland experience. Begin your festivities at YouBeauty, where you can savour natural wines, handcrafted cocktails, and delectable gourmet bites prepared by celebrity Chef Matt Stone. For a taste of Italy, slip next door to Ciao, Mate! Or venture into the hills to The Eltham Hotel for exceptional pub cuisine and a vibrant regional atmosphere.

Group Excursions

Explore the hinterland and build a sense of camaraderie amongst your guests with invigorating bush walks and waterfall swims at scenic spots like Killen Falls or Protestors Falls; enjoy the bounty of local produce with a visit to a local farmers market or interactive cooking class at Open Table; inspire creativity with a ceramics workshop at The Clay Barn; amaze your guests with a trip to the Crystal Castle & Shambala Gardens.

Pampering & Relaxation

Unwind and prepare for your special day with a facial at Aleshia Marie, a yoga class at Bangalow Pilates Barre, a day spa at Gia Retreat, or a bath house journey at The Banya. Alternatively, enjoy some retail therapy at Bangalow's charming independent boutiques like Our Corner Store, Millar & More, and Bisque.

The Best Outdoor Wedding Venues in Byron Bay

When it comes to tying the knot amidst nature's splendor, Byron Bay emerges as a dream destination for outdoor weddings. With its stunning landscapes, idyllic beaches, and lush hinterlands, this coastal paradise offers a range of breathtaking outdoor venues that cater to every couple's vision of a perfect wedding day.

Lauren & Nick at Frida’s Field. Image by Emma Jade Photography.

1. The Farm Byron Bay

Nestled in the hinterland, The Farm Byron Bay is a rustic and enchanting venue that combines a working farm with charming event spaces. Exchange vows beneath the ancient fig trees, celebrate in the refurbished barn, and immerse yourselves in the beauty of the lush surroundings.

2. Byron View Farm

Perched atop a hill, Byron View Farm boasts panoramic vistas of the coastline and hinterland. This exclusive and intimate venue offers a spacious deck for your ceremony and reception, providing an unmatched backdrop for your special day.

3. Elements of Byron Bay

For a beachside wedding with a touch of luxury, Elements of Byron Bay offers a pristine stretch of coastline and luxurious amenities. Say your vows against the backdrop of the rolling waves, followed by a reception in their elegant outdoor pavilions.

4. Frida’s Field

A stunning trip through rolling green hills, Frida’s Field is the ultimate destination wedding venue in Byron Bay - designed as a space where people can gather together and celebrate, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. A large, private space with expansive hinterland views, lush pastures dotted with towering trees provide perfect ceremony set ups and bountiful photo opportunities. Your guests will be wowed by award-winning catering and exceptional hospitality service.

5. Beach Wedding Bliss

Byron Bay's picturesque beaches, including Wategos Beach and Belongil Beach, offer stunning backdrops for couples seeking a simple yet breathtaking outdoor ceremony. The sound of crashing waves and the feeling of soft sand beneath your feet create an unforgettable ambiance.

From beachfront beauty to hinterland charm, Byron Bay's outdoor wedding venues cater to a diverse range of preferences and styles. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony by the sea or a bohemian celebration in a garden, these venues promise to create memories that last a lifetime. Embrace the natural beauty of Byron Bay as you exchange your vows and embark on a journey of love and togetherness in these breathtaking outdoor settings.

Callum & Ash outdoor wedding set up at Frida’s Field. Image by Megan Kelly.

Jeanie Wylie 21/8/23 Jeanie Wylie 21/8/23

Your Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding in Byron Bay: Tips from Frida's Field

Tiffany & Alan’s wedding at Frida’s Field. October 2022. Image by Wallflower Weddings.

Byron Bay: Where Natural Beauty Meets Sophisticated Charm

Imagine a wedding that combines natural beauty, relaxed charm, and an unforgettable setting. Byron Bay is your perfect destination for such a celebration! With its breathtaking beaches, lush hinterland, and vibrant culture, Byron Bay provides the ideal backdrop for your dream wedding. In this comprehensive guide, we'll lead you through each step of planning your destination wedding in Byron Bay, helping you bring your envisioned wedding day to life.

Step 1: Choosing Byron Bay as Your Wedding Destination

Byron Bay's unique blend of coastal allure, rolling green hills and bohemian-chic vibes makes it an ideal destination for a memorable wedding. The stunning beaches, bountiful farmland, lush rainforests, and the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse set the scene for a one-of-a-kind celebration.

Step 2: Selecting the Perfect Date

The weather in Byron Bay is generally pleasant year-round, but consider the seasons when planning your wedding date. Byron Bay tends to have 2 main wedding seasons - the Autumn season (March, April and May) and the Spring season (September, October and November). August and September tend to be the driest months. Winter weddings are becoming increasingly popular as the days are still very pleasant, there is less rainfall, fewer crowds and discounted venue fees are widespread. December and January are the peak tourist season.

Step 3: Crafting Your Budget

Destination weddings can be both magical and cost-effective with thoughtful planning. Outline a detailed budget that covers travel expenses, accommodations, venue costs, decor, catering, and more. Working with an all-inclusive venue that outlines all your costs upfront is very helpful in this process. Cost savings can be found (if needed) by looking at off-peak seasons, weekday weddings, lots of inclusions from your venue, and venues that require few additions to make a memorable experience.

Step 4: Curating Your Guest List and Invitations

Byron is the perfect place to create an immersive and enjoyable experience for your friends and family, transforming your wedding into a truly unforgettable celebration with an incredible itinerary of pre and post wedding activities, in addition to your amazing wedding day. Select friends and family who will appreciate the experience. Send out save-the-date cards well in advance to give your guests ample time to plan.

Step 5: Discovering the Perfect Byron Bay Venue

Byron Bay offers a variety of stunning venues that capture its natural beauty and sophisticated bohemian charm. From beachfront restaurants to hinterland retreats, choose a venue that aligns with your vision, offers amazing photo opportunities, breathtaking scenery, great service and a wide range of inclusions. Confirm availability, explore on-site services, and secure your booking.

Step 6: Navigating Legal Requirements

For couples coming from overseas, understanding the legal requirements for marriage in Australia is essential. Research the necessary documentation, marriage licenses, and certificates needed to ensure your union is legally recognized.

Step 7: Ensuring Travel and Accommodations

The Byron region is brimming with stunning accommodation options, ensuring you and your guests feel truly pampered throughout your stay. Byron Bay has the largest range of accommodation options in the region with choices for every budget. From luxury hotels like Element and Crystalbrook, to boutique lodgings like The Bower and The Atlantic; not to mention numerous Airbnbs. Help your guests by providing information about travel options, local accommodations, and nearby attractions. Consider partnering with local hotels for group rates to make the experience convenient and enjoyable for everyone. Look for a venue that offer on-site bridal suite accommodation to take the stress out of getting ready on the day.

Step 8: Collaborating with Local Vendors

Byron Bay is known for its creative community, so take advantage of local vendors who specialize in destination weddings. Whether it's chefs, florists, photographers, or musicians, their local expertise can elevate your wedding with authenticity and charm.

Step 9: Infusing Byron Bay Vibes

Capture the spirit of Byron Bay by incorporating its unique culture into your celebration. Incorporate locally-sourced ingredients, renown local chefs, music, and performance to infuse your wedding with the region's bohemian flair.

Step 10: Embrace the Moment

On your special day, immerse yourself in the beauty of Byron Bay and the love of your partner and guests. Enjoy every moment of your wedding, knowing that you've crafted a day that reflects your love story and the magic of Byron Bay.

An Unforgettable Experience

Planning a destination wedding in Byron Bay is a journey that leads to a truly unforgettable experience. By following this ultimate guide, you'll be well-prepared to create a wedding that encapsulates the spirit of Byron Bay and celebrates your love in a truly magical setting. Here's to the beginning of your new adventure as a married couple against the stunning backdrop of Byron Bay's beauty!