The evolution of the idea
The clarity that midlife brings has lead us to increasingly understand the value of time spent in female company. Here's what we have learnt about women: The more we gather, the larger the number and frequency of these gatherings, the longer we will live. It's that simple...
Let's be honest, the world is looking a little unhinged right now. More than ever, midlife women need to seek each other out for friendship, connection, meaning, direction and just a good laugh! So join us in building this community in beautiful Surrey!
We have a beautiful county with incredible adventure opportunities, add in a group of rock-star women with a desire to live life to the full, sprinkle with laughter and genuine connection...
...and By the Fire is born.
Our mission
Life hands you NCT mates, school mums and then the W.I and really not much in between...
Opportunities for meaningful, connected experiences in midlife are few and far between, we aim to provide just these kinds of experiences. We will provide the opportunities, you create the community!
The idea of living boldly means different things to different people. It can look like trying wild swimming for the first time, learning to cook a great curry from scratch, mentoring a young person, championing a charity, conquering a hiking trail or just making a new friend at this stage of life.
It's YOUR community, you get to choose the direction of travel!
Meet the founder
I'm Carmen, founder of By the Fire. I have lived in Surrey for 24 years, after moving to the UK from South Africa in 2002. I am (and have been) a daughter, a sister, a wife, a mum, a friend and a small business owner.
But more importantly, I am a person.
A curious, outspoken, fun-loving, outdoorsy, grab-life-by-the-proverbials person.
Come along with me on this life journey, we only get one go at it!