We captured Byron local, Julia who runs "The Vista" a unique online travel platform offering alternative approaches for the modern family. She spoke to the Stevie May Collective about her morning rituals, motherhood and Byron Bay must-do's.
What is it about Byron that you love?
Byron is my hometown, the place I grew up (well nearby in Lennox Head anyway). I do get very nostalgic when I see how much it has changed in the last 30 years, yet we are lucky to have some of the most stunning beaches in the world here.
The hinterland is also dotted with great cafes, walks and nature trails. Plus of course, a fabulous and creative community of local people.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Waking up with the sun, or my daughter Delilah Bee singing a little tune from her cot. Then if I’m lucky a cup of tea and some yoga, or one of my favourite things to do is duck out early to walk the lighthouse and have a dip before things get busy.
If its one of my work days - I drive Delilah to bush kindy so I can go into the office in Bangalow which, I share with some great like-minded ladies. Around 4.30pm I’ll make my way home and we as a family normally take a walk on the beach or around the property to watch the sunset, pick from the veggie patch and make an early dinner.
Where does your inspiration come from? People, places, or a little of everything?
ALL AROUND!
I love chatting to fellow travellers and friends about how much lust and zest they have for travel as well as visiting new and exciting places, hotels or destinations . I am also inspired by old coffee table books, record covers, movies and magazines like National Geographic. AND of course Pinterest... I mean who doesn’t pin!
What does fashion mean to you?
Right now (at 35 weeks pregnant) I must admit its a-lot more about function than fashion. Regularly though, I love how fashion is so expressive.
On a rainy day I’ll slip into a pair of sunflower yellow high waisted flares and a tee, I feel like it brings up my mood and makes me happy too.
I love a touch of the 70’s, denim is a go to. I am quite partial to a jumpsuit or pair of mens overalls.
What do you like to do in your downtime? How do you stay grounded?
I studied vedic meditation in Bali around four years ago. Whilst I can’t say I have a regular, everyday, twice a day practice it’s a great tool to tap back into when you need it. Just 20 minutes of connection time can do wonders to your day and your productivity.
Has there been a life changing moment in motherhood?
Birth! Not only is it ultimately mind blowing witnessing what the beautiful human body is capable of - it also brought my husband and I much closer and more intimate. The oxytocin that flows through both of you during those moments are some of the strongest love vibes you will ever experience - and then...you see the face of your child, a beautiful little human that you both created together.
What words of advice have stuck with you?
BE KIND - Really why be anything else? That’s just a waste of everyone’s time.
Top 5 must things to do in the Byron area
Light House Walk
Coffee from Top Shop
Breakfast at Woods, Bangalow
Wategos Beach for sunset
Lunch at Doma, Federal
Farmers Markets (perhaps New Brighton, Mullumbimby or Byron)
Ooops that’s 6!
