I was contacted in early November to meet with Garron to discuss his 50th birthday, planned for the 9th of December, on his private farm, Frikana, just outside Robertson. I had no idea what the brief would be until I had met with him and then realized that I had barely a month to coordinate accommodation for 130 people travelling in from the USA and in and around South Africa, book four bands, hire furniture and decor, book staff and plan an event that was due to take place over 3 days in 3 different locations on Garron’s farm which had a kitchen and not much else!
Not one for being daunted by challenges, I set to work!
Garron is an avid music fan, and his vision for his 50th birthday was to create a mini-music festival on his farm just outside Robertson.
Guests were to be accommodated Friday to Sunday at Rivierzicht River Resort in bungalows and cabins and in Hey Pioneer & Kreef Hotels glamping tents. On arrival, all guests received a “Welcome Bag” with a personalized water bottle, torch, citronella candles, delicious snacks, and themed printed programs detailing the weekend’s festivities.
Frikana Farm in Robertson
On Friday night, guests were invited to enjoy a casual braai. The actual festivities officially kicked off with a welcome lunch at Garron’s river deck on Saturday afternoon.
The Mexican-themed arrival lunch consisted of pulled pork and fish tacos, with ice-cold margaritas on tap! Guests lazed the afternoon away on the banks of the Breede River while being entertained by a fabulous local folk band, Well Done Sun.
Lunch alongside the river
Garron’s dad is an avid blues fan, and I was tasked with finding a jazz pianist to kick off the champagne and canapés at 5 p.m. in the marquee attached to Garron’s beautiful homestead. Jason Roelen was incredible, and I can highly recommend him for any blues or jazz entertainment!
Dinner was served in the marquee and guests were entertained by Jason Roelen on keyboard
Guests were spoilt for choice with a champagne and wine bar, craft beer and gin stations from Saggy Stone, and four delicious courses prepared by The Field Kitchen. Everyone could not stop complimenting the delicious food! Working with Darryl Burger, a close friend and chef extraordinaire, is always a pleasure. The Field Kitchen’s food not only looks incredible but is beyond tasty!
Gerald Clark kicked off the evening’s entertainment, followed by hilarious and brilliant speeches by Garron’s dad, brother, best friend, and Natalie. The speeches were a true testament to the very special person that Garron is!
After the speeches, DJ Dino Moran started dancing with some serious international music vibes, and guests partied the night away under the starlit sky!
On Sunday morning, guests enjoyed wholesome breakfast baps and poke bowls with much-needed coffee from Lu Brew! Breakfast turned into lunch, and when we left the farm to return to Cape Town, there was a crowd sitting around the pool sipping drinks, laughing and enjoying another beautiful summer day!
A big thank you to Pieter from Robertson Florists, who delivered the stunning Proteas and aloes used for the décor in and around the farm, and to the incredible team at Baie Goeters, who helped us set up in 3 different locations in 50-degree heat on Friday! Thank goodness for the river, a lovely swim, and an ice-cold Gin & Tonic in the afternoon after we set up!
The very talented Sheldon Moultrie documented the entire weekend as a gift from one of Garron’s close friends!
Con Viljoen from Tent Men set up the marquee, lighting and dance floor, which looked incredible at night! We loved the naked globes and outside fairy lighting!
